Adapter for Towing a 5h Wheel Trailer with a Gooseneck Trailer Hitch

Question:

I was wondering if your Ranch hitch will void any warranty with the trailer? Also I had asked the local dealer about using an adapter for my 5th wheel trailer and they did not recommend it. He said by ping the pulling point down it tends to clam shell the frame. He described the frame goes up from the hitch into the front of the trailer, straight back and down to the bottomfloor, then connects to the actual frame of the trailer. Anyway he said after some time with the clam shelling, the fiberglass where the frame goes back and then down will start to develop stress cracks, hopefully you understand my description. So I guess im not sure if I should try on or not? I do not want to end up with cracks in my trailer. Thanks for your response.

asked by: Mike

Expert Reply:

The use of an adapter like the Ranch Hitch # AM3100 may void the trailer warranty but you will have to call the trailer manufacturer to determine that. Some manufacturers allow the use of an adapter, some do not. As far as what the dealer said about the extra stress that is true sometimes but largely depends on several factors including the weight of the trailer and how often and long you tow the trailer.

There are other ways that you can tow a 5th wheel trailer with a gooseneck trailer hitch though that are much less stressful and will not void a warranty, though you would still want to ask just to be certain.

The absolute best way to adapter the trailer is to replace the pin box with a Reese Goose Box. The Goose Box is even guaranteed by Lippert, manufacturer of many 5th wheel trailer frames, to not void the warranty. The only issue is that there are just 2 Goose Boxes and they fit specific pin boxes. Find your pin box manufacturer and model number on a sticker or plate on the pin box.

Goose Box # RP85FR fits Lippert 0719, 1621 and 1621HD and Fabex PB-600 Series pin boxes.

Goose Box # RP94716-61301 fits Lippert 0115, 1116 and 1716 pin boxes.

But, the best option from a warranty and ride quality standpoint is to tow a fifth wheel trailer with a fifth wheel hitch. To do so you would have to remove the gooseneck hitch and install a 5th wheel trailer hitch installation kit and get a compatible 5th wheel hitch.

And finally I have included a link to our FAQ article on adapters used to tow a 5th wheel trailer with a gooseneck hitch.