Gooseneck Trailer Hitch Information and Review

Goosenecks vs Fifth Wheels

Like a fifth wheel hitch, a gooseneck hitch is mounted in the bed of the truck, but while a fifth wheel hitch sits above the bed, a gooseneck hitch uses a ball mounted level with the bed. Also, fifth wheel trailers are typically used for recreational applications (such as camping), while gooseneck trailers are primarily for agricultural or industrial use.

Weight Ratings

• Gooseneck hitches are rated for 25,000 to 30,000 lbs
• Rail kits offered are rated for a lower capacity to meet non-commercial towing standards
• When used with the proper rail kit, the Gooseneck System is designed to match the towing capacity of your vehicle
  • NOTE: Remember that any towing system is only as strong as its weakest link. You will be limited by the tow rating of your vehicle.

Available Mounting Configurations

The Hide-A-Goose System:

• The only visible portions of the hitch are the safety chain loops and the 2-5/16 inch ball which extends through a 3-1/2 or 4 inch hole in the bed
  • Vehicle specific rail kits are mounted underneath the bed; most kits do not require drilling for installation
• This system allows you to retain maximum usage of your truck bed
  • Ball can be flipped and stored under the bed surface
  • Safety chain loops are spring loaded to stay tight against the bed surface when not being used

B&W Turnoverball Gooseneck System:

• Only the safety chain loops and the ball extend above the bed
  • Includes underbed installation rails
• Hitch lets you use all of your truck bed when you aren't towing
  • Ball stores upside down - out of the way but close at hand
  • Square ball base prevents ball from turning when you hook up
    • Keeps ball hole lined up to easily connect to hitch handle

• Custom accessories mount into gooseneck ball hole
  • B&W Companion hitch lets you tow a 5th-wheel trailer

Plate Style Systems:

• Sits slightly above the truck bed, but allows full truck bed use when not towing
  • Depending on style, ball is removable or will fold down below bed surface
• Units are less expensive, but the installation can be more involved
  • Requires cutting a larger hole in the truck bed
• These hitches have the advantage of simple reliable operation, and the mounting rail kits use existing holes in the vehicle frame

Fifth Wheel Rail Mount System:

• Perfect for hauling the fifth wheel camper on the weekend and the bobcat during the week
• Units mount to your existing fifth wheel rails, providing maximum flexibility by allowing the user to switch from fifth wheel hitch to gooseneck hitch in moments