Was B and W 5th Wheel That Was Installed on 2014 Chevy Silverado Done Correctly
Question:
I had a new BandW Companion hitch put in my new 2014 Chevy Siverado HD3500 4x4 long bed truck. They put the gooseneck hitch forward of the rear axle. With the fifth wheel companion head on it and hitched up its real tight clearance between bumper and trailer.. Is that correct? I can send pic if helpful.
asked by: Dave B
Expert Reply:
Typically, a gooseneck hitch is installed centered over or slightly forward of the rear axle. The installation point is forward of the rear axle because gooseneck hitches have such high tow and tongue weight capacities that the weight needs to be over the bed of the truck for it to be able to carry the load.
According to B and W, the gooseneck hitch that fits your vehicle is part # BWGNRK1007. This unit installs 49 inches forward from the tailgate end of the truck bed. This measurement is consistent with the placement of similar hitches from both Blue Ox and Curt.
I believe your gooseneck and fifth wheel Companion hitch were installed properly because of the information I was able to gather regarding your 2014 Chevy Silverado HD3500. To determine if you can safely make 90 degree turns with your fifth wheel trailer, measure from the center of your fifth wheel hitch or gooseneck ball to the back of your truck cab. That distance must be 4 inches greater than half the width of your trailer.
For example, if your trailer is 8 ft wide, half the width is 48 inches. The distance from the center of your fifth wheel hitch or gooseneck ball must be at least 52 inches to safely make 90 degree turns on various road types.
