Need Access to Truck Bed When Im Not Towing which is better Gooseneck or 5th Wheel?
Question:
I just purchased a 2016 F-250 so I can pull my keystone Sydney outback fifth wheel trailer, model 320FDB. I like the gooseneck option so I can have full use of my truck bed when not towing. I also am not really big on having the fifth wheel hitch clanking around when not in use but I do want stability and safety. Can you discuss some of the advantages and disadvantages of each?
asked by: Serge
Expert Reply:
Gooseneck trailers are primarily commercially used, while 5th Wheels are primarily used recreationally. Goosenecks come in a variety of styles, some hitch balls are fixed, while others are detachable so you can remove from the bed or change it the ball out to a different size. We even have gooseneck balls that fold down into the bed of the truck, to provide more clearance when the gooseneck is not in use. In some states passengers are not allowed to ride in the trailer if being towed by a gooseneck hitch.
A fifth wheel hitch will generally have a smoother ride. It is a similar connection that is used between a semi and trailer. Passengers are allowed to ride in the trailer when pulled by a 5th wheel hitch in most states, as a result 5th wheels are the most popular when it comes to towing RVs and campers.
I recommend the fifth wheel hitch because it is the industry standard for towing an RV. Since you have a fifth wheel trailer a fifth wheel hitch is the best choice and the safest option. The fifth wheel hitch is already set up to accept the king pin connection, after the install, once the king pin is connected then you are ready to tow. I would not recommend a gooseneck in this instance, simply because it would not be efficient to make it compatible to connect with your RV.
Some of the disadvantages of towing a fifth wheel trailer with a goose neck hitch are the use of adapters to make the trailer fit a gooseneck hitch and going through the process of converting your trailer to make a gooseneck hitch fit. When drivers purchase a 5th wheel to gooseneck adapter it is normally used when a person already has a gooseneck trailer hitch installed in the truck and needs to tow both gooseneck and 5th wheel trailers. These adapters are a good solution, but do not provide as nice a ride when towing a fifth wheel trailer.
You also mentioned that you need full access to your truck bed, "below bed rails" 5th wheel trailer hitches leave the bed clear when the hitch is removed. If your 2016 Ford F-250 Super Duty has an 8 Foot Bed without Factory Rail Kit, this B&W Companion 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch # BWRVK3500-5W is a confirmed fit and will do the trick.
This hitch features, a rail-free design allows for full access to truck bed when hitch is removed. Its also has a quiet, and secure ride you have been looking for. You will also need the Installation Kit # BWGNRK1111-5W to complete the install. This kit also doubles as a gooseneck hitch so if you ever need to tow a gooseneck trailer, you will be set up for that.
I have attached videos and pictures to get more familiar with this product.

Products Referenced in This Question
Custom Underbed Installation Kit for B&W Companion 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches
- 5th Wheel Hitch Rails
- Custom
- Below the Bed
- B and W
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
B&W Companion 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Dual Jaw - 20,000 lbs
- 5th Wheel Hitch
- Fixed Fifth Wheel
- Aftermarket Below Bed Rails
- 5000 lbs Vertical Load
- 20000 lbs GTW
- Double Pivot
- Standard - Double Jaw
- 16-1/4 - 18-1/4 Inch Tall
- B and W
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Article: 4 Steps to Choosing Your 5th Wheel Pin Box
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Latch Pin on B&W Gooseneck Hitch That Will Pull Out But Won't Rotate
- Q&A: Does Truck with 6-1/2 ft bed Have to Use Slider Hitch for Turning Clearance with Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Q&A: How Much Does the Head and Base Weigh for the B&W Companion 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch
- Q&A: Does the Curt Helux Pin Box Work w/ a Anderson Ultimate 5th Wheel Hitch?
- Q&A: Troubleshooting B and W Companion Release Handle that Doesn't Want to Release
- Q&A: B&W Companion Latch Handle Stuck and Wont Unlatch
- Q&A: What Is An OEM Prep Package And How Do I Know If I Have It
- Article: Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Adapters
- Article: Sidewinder with Rotating Turret for Short Bed Pickups
- Article: Ram Trailer Tow Prep Package
- Article: 30-Amp and 50-Amp RV Service: What's the Difference?
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: Guide to Choosing the Best Truck for 5th-Wheel Towing