Comparing 5th Wheel Trailer to Gooseneck Hitch Adapters for a 1996 Ford F-250 Long Bed

Question:

I see there is several to choose from. My problem is Im a first timer towing a 5th wheel so am uncertain what type of adapter to purchase for my 1996 Ford F250 long bed. My 5th wheel is 24foot long and approx weight of 12,000 lbs. How do I know which one to purchase?

asked by: Wendy

Expert Reply:

As you have mentioned, there are several 5th wheel trailer to gooseneck trailer hitch adapters available. They can be looked at in a good, better, best type of format.

Starting with the best we have the Goose Box from Reese. The Goose Box will replace the existing pin box on the trailer with one that has a gooseneck coupler on it rather than a king pin. The Goose Box adapters will only fit on certain model pin boxes. Goose Box # RP85FR fits Lippert 0719, 1621 and 1621HD and Fabex PB-600 Series pin boxes.

The Goose Box # RP94716-61301 fits Lippert 0115, 1116 and 1716 pin boxes. The pin box manufacturer and model numbers is typically located on a sticker or plate on the pin box.

The Goose Box is less of an adapter since it replaces the pin box, making it a more stable and safe connection. It will also enhance the ride quality because it is cushioned with an air bag.

If you already have a B and W gooseneck trailer hitch installed then you can use Companion hitch # BWRVK3500-5W that fits in the ball cavity.

And finally there are the adapters that attach to the trailer king pin. We have two options in this category: cushioned and non-cushioned. The Convert-A-Ball adapter, # CAB-C5G, is cushioned so it will provide a better ride but it has a lower capacity than the similar product, the Ranch Hitch, # AM3100. Some trailer manufacturers will not approve the use of this type of adapter because it does put additional stress on the frame.

I have included a link to an informational article on adapters for you along with some videos of some of the adapters listed above.