Formula Needed to Determine if Reese Goose Box Can Provide Turning Clearance

Question:

I have a pop up ball on my gmc, they make a 4inch offset. So measuring: ball with offset to cab 39 Length of Goosebox 25.25 add together equals 64.25 Subtract with of trailer divided by 2 48 Equals 16.25inch Is this the length I would have from nose of trailer to the window? If so what degree of turn could I make? The trailer nose is slightly angled on sides.

asked by: Kathy D

Expert Reply:

The Goose Box length does not get added into any of the factors when determining clearance since it does not provide any additional clearance. Here is the formula that I'll walk you through:

(A + B) - C = Clearance

A = Distance from center of gooseneck ball to truck cab.
B = Length of Offset (in your case this is zero)
C = Width of trailer divided by 2 (you measure the nose of the trailer as that's what would potentially hit truck cab).

expert reply by: Jameson C

Kathy D.

2/27/2020

Jameson C.

2/27/2020

39 - 48 = -9 inches so you would not have enough clearance to make a 90 degree turn. It's hard to say how far you'd be able to turn exactly but if there's a way to use a slider fifth wheel hitch instead you'll be much better off. Do you know what gooseneck hitch setup you have currently?