Will Reese Goose Box Have Enough Trailer-to-Cab Clearance for 2017 GMC Sierra 3500 6-1/2 Bed

Question:

I tow a 5th wheel and Id love to use the factory installed goose neck in my 2017 Sierra 3500 Denali single axle standard bed truck. My truck bed is near useless with the Demco slider I have now. I think my bed is 6.5 feet. Will I have clearance problems in turns with a Reese Gooseneck?

asked by: Jeff U

Expert Reply:

Since a (discontinued) Reese Goose Box doesn't really change how far back your trailer sits or its pivot point I don't think you will have clearance with the 6-1/2' bed on your 2017 GMC Sierra 3500.

What you can use though is the Convert-A-Ball Cushioned 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Adapter # CAB-C5GX1216 which has a 12" offset that might be enough for you to have turning clearance. We actually have a formula that you can use to see if this gives you enough clearance:

(A + B) - C = Clearance

A = Distance from center of fifth wheel hitch jaw to truck cab (in your case the hitch ball)
B = Length of offset (12")
C = Width of trailer divided by 2 (to get half)

If you have at least 4" of clearance then you should be able to make a 90 degree turn. If you don't already have a gooseneck hitch ball then you can use the Curt Kit # C60692 which is for the OEM puck system on your Sierra and includes the safety chain loops.