How to Determine if a Short Bed Truck Will have Enough Clearance to Make Tight Turns

Published 12/10/2015

Question:

I asked about the above installation and was told if the trailer has a narrow neck over with no storage compartment it could be done. But my trailer does have storage over the neckover. However, the front of the trailer is rounded half circle with the post on the very front. Will this work? Any problems with this arrangement?

asked by: Darrell D

Expert Reply:

The issue you will run into is that when you go to make tight turns the storage area on your trailer (depending on the dimensions of it), will most likely hit the cab of the truck since your truck bed is so short. Here is a formula you can use to determine if you have the needed clearance.

(A + B) - C = Clearance
A = Distance from the gooseneck ball to the truck cab
B = Offset used, like if you used a Offset Extension Ball # 19308
C = Width of the nose of the trailer divided by 2.

I also attached a picture that also details this calculation.

The Curt gooseneck hitch part # C615-632 that you referenced has been confirmed as a fit for your 2008 Chevy Silverado 1500 with a 5-1/2 foot bed, but based on the fact that your trailer has a storage area I would be surprised if you could tow a gooseneck trailer without interference.

expert reply by: Jameson C