Is An Offset Gooseneck Hitch Ball Needed For A Ram With An 8' Bed

Question:

I have a 2019 Ram 3500 Dually with 8foot Bed. I will be converting from a 5th Wheel hitch to a Gooseneck soon to clear up space in the bed. I was watching some of the videos and keep hearing people talk about having the offset ball. My question is do you need an offset ball with the 8foot bed ? Will there be enough clearance for the cab to clear in a tight turn if you dont have the offset ball ??

asked by: Jeremy T

Expert Reply:

Hey Jeremy,

With an 8' bed you should not need an offset ball as there's more than enough space to make a 90 degree turn. The B&W Ball and Safety Chain Kit for Ram Underbed Gooseneck Trailer Hitch # BWGNXA2062 you were looking at is for the Ram OEM puck system and not for aftermarket gooseneck hitches. If you're just swapping out the 5th wheel hitch for a gooseneck hitch then I recommend going with the B&W Turnoverball # BWGNRK1320 instead.

If you're saying that you're swapping out to a newer truck with the OEM puck system then the # BWGNXA2062 would be the right choice.

expert reply by: Kevin C