Options for Installing 5th Wheel Hitch in Ram 3500 Dually Equipped with a Gooseneck Hitch Ball

Question:

I have a fold down gooseneck ball in the bed of our dodge 3500 dully. What type 5th wheel hitch can I find that can be attached to the gooseneck ball and wont need to remove the ball and drill holes?

asked by: Steven H

Helpful Expert Reply:

Trucks equipped with a goose neck hitch ball can be adapted for 5th wheel towing in several ways. The linked article you reviewed explains the various methods, which include a replacement 5th wheel pin box, hitches that fit into the goose neck ball hole, adapters that mount to the truck and adapters that mount on the 5th wheel king pin.

A replacement pin box is the best option in terms of towing ride quality, safety and also for the protection of the trailer's frame. Reese offers several Goose Box couplers that are direct bolt-on replacements for many popular standard pin boxes. The Goose Box is equipped with a built-in air bag that provides cushioning and absorbs road shock. It will also not void the trailer warranty (it is actually endorsed by Lippert). If your current pin box is compatible with one of these replacements then this is my recommendation. The article includes a listing of compatible standard pin boxes.

The other adapter types are more cost-effective and include the Draw-Tite Hi-Rise Gooseneck-to-5th-Wheel Trailer Hitch Adapter # 9480 rated for 18K trailer weight. Curt offers their X-5 adapter plate # C16210 that fits Curt Double-Lock, Flip and Store goose neck hitches. To this you can add the 5th wheel hitch of your choice up to a 20K rating. If you have a B and W hitch with a square shank you could use their X-5 adapter # 16310.

The other types of adapters will place more stress on your 5th wheel's frame but for only occasional use they may be a suitable option.

expert reply by: Adam R