Is Offset Version of Convert a Ball Fifth Wheel Adapter Needed for Short Bed Dodge Ram

Question:

I have a 2003 Dodge Ram 2500 with 6-1/2foot bed. Would it clear the truck without an offset style? Also, the trailer I bought is a 24-26foot and they did a spring over axle mod. probably lifted it 3inch over stock.

asked by: Lydia L

Expert Reply:

The offset gained with the Convert-A-Ball part # CAB-C5GX1216 over the non-offset part # CAB-C5G actually doesn't gain you much turning clearance if any at all since as you turn the offset turns with it and becomes minimized more and more as the turn gets sharper. So I would not recommend the offset version over the non-offset version as you won't gain a considerable amount.

For a short bed truck like your 2003 Dodge Ram 2500 there's really only going to be one deciding factor on if you can make tight turns and that will be the nose style of the trailer. If the trailer has a tapered nose you'll be fine but if it's a square nose you would not be able to make a 90 degree turn or anywhere near it.

The lift of the trailer is pretty common and I would not anticipate that being an issue either. People very frequently ask us about how to lift trailers so we know it's common.

expert reply by: Jameson C