Adapter to Tow Fifth Wheel with Curt Quick Goose # C60640  

Question:

Expert Reply:

We offer several different adapters that would allow you to pull a fifth wheel trailer with a truck that is equipped with a gooseneck hitch. As I do not have any information about your truck, I will run through the various alternatives that might work for you.

If you have not already installed the gooseneck hitch, you will be better off using a fifth wheel hitch installed on rails in your truck bed, and using a gooseneck adapter like part # 49080 that would install on the fifth wheel rails when you need to tow a gooseneck.

Since the gooseneck hitch is already in place in the truck bed, it needs to be adapted in some manner. For truck beds at least 6 foot long, an adapter plate like # C16210 could be used along with a sliding fifth wheel hitch for 6 foot beds or a standard, non sliding fifth wheel hitch for 8 foot beds. For best towing performance and ride quality, it is best to use a fifth wheel hitch to tow the fifth wheel if at all possible.

If you only plan on towing the fifth wheel with this particular truck, and the fifth wheel has a Lippert # 1621 or 1716 pin box (pin box should have a sticker or plate stating mfr. and model number), a Reese Goose Box Air Ride Coupler like part # RP85FR (for Lippert 1621, 1621HD, 0719 or Fabex PB-600 Series)

or # RP94716-61301 (for Lippert # 1716, 0115 or 1116) would be a great option. The Goose Box offers a smooth, safe ride, is easy to hitch and unhitch, and unlike other adapter systems, it does not cause additional stress on the fifth wheel frame that might void the mfr. warranty. It is even endorsed by Lippert for their fifth wheel frames.

The Andersen Ranch Hitch, like part # AM3100 for long truck beds or the offset model, # AM3139 for short beds is a popular choice. The adapter base would remain bolted to the trailer pin box, and would need to be removed if a fifth wheel hitch is used. A slide hammer, # AM3103 makes install and removal of the hitch much easier, and the safety chain kit, # AM3109 is highly recommended.

Before using an adapter to tow your fifth wheel, I would strongly urge you to contact the fifth wheel manufacturer, and determine what warranty ramifications would be involved.

The best adapter for your needs will depend on many variables. Will the fifth wheel be towed by many different vehicles, or will it only be towed with one? Is ride quality or price the most important consideration? Are you concerned with warranty consequences?

expert reply by: Mike L

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