Convert-A-Ball 5th Wheel Adapter Compatibility with 2015 Ram Short Bed with Factory Gooseneck

Question:

Why does this adapter not recommend for factory gooseneck.

asked by: Rob

Expert Reply:

The Convert-A-Ball Cushioned 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Adapter w/ Offset - 12" to 16" Tall # CAB-C5GX1216 is not recommended for use with factory-installed towing prep packages from Ford, GM, Dodge (Ram), or Nissan.

There are a few reasons but none of them impact the actual function of the adapter. The first is ball wear. The factory systems use a lever on the top of the hitch ball that wears over time and can leave you unable to remove the ball. I've attached a photo from the manufacturer of a ball that had this issue for reference. The metal flip of the Curt system may work better than the plastic of the Reese system, but the location of the latch is the larger issue for the manufacturer because their adapter has a flat top that will ride on the top of the ball all the time.

The second issue is the safety chains. The adapter # CAB-C5GX1216 comes with safety chains designed to be used with systems with the loops next to the hitch ball. The moving of the chain loops back to the pucks leaves the chains too short. Not only will you need to replace the chains but you will also need hooks compatible with the loops of that system which is the third issue. I've attached a photo of this information to assist further.

Another option is the Ranch Hitch Universal 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Coupler Adapter w/8" Offset for Short-Bed Trucks # AM3139. This manufacturer does not specify any issue with the factory gooseneck hitch.

expert reply by: Jason S