Tailgate Hits Reese Goose Box When Coupling 5th Wheel with 2019 Ford F-350 Super Duty

Question:

I just purchased a Chaparral Lite 295x and the RV Dealer installed the Reese 16k Goosebox. When connected to the truck I cannot open the tailgate as it just hits the front of the 5th Wheel. Are there any adjustments that I can make to allow the tailgate to be down when connecting /disconnecting. Note - the Rv dealer said they were familiar with this hitch but I don’t believe they added air to the airbag as they sent me on my way after hookup. After reading your install doc I believe the truck should have been hooked up and air added. I think the hitch is in the standard mounting spot but not positive.

asked by: Linda S

Expert Reply:

It is very common to not be able to lower the tailgate all the way when towing a fifth wheel trailer. The Reese Goose Box 20k like part # RP85FR is height adjustable, you can adjust the height to allow more room for your tailgate to lower but you do want to make sure your setup remains level if you adjust the height. The air bag should be filled using the valve after the fifth wheel is coupled. There is an indicator that shows when the air is at the optimal level for ride quality.

If you cannot adjust the height anymore and still are not able to put the tailgate down, you can use Stromberg Carlson 4000 Series 5th Wheel Louvered Tailgate with Lock for Ford Trucks part # VG-15-4000 that has a cut out that makes up hooking up the trailer easier.

expert reply by: Heather A