Recommendation for 5th Wheel Hitch on 2012 Ram 2500 Diesel with Gooseneck Hitch

Published 09/20/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Convert-A-Ball Cushioned 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Adapter w/ Offset - 12" to 16" Tall

(996)

$819.03

Demco Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider - Single Jaw - Above Bed - 21,000 lbs

(740)

$2173.00

Demco Premier Series Above-Bed Base Rails and Custom Installation Kit for 5th Wheel Hitches

(6)

$570.76

Question:

Hi,I have an 2012 2500 ram diesel 6foot 3inch bed.I bought it used with an Atwood turnover /hide a ball installed.I have a 27inch 5th wheel I will be towing,what would you suggest is my best option for a safe smooth ride?

asked by: Bill

Expert Reply:

For your 2012 Ram 2500 with a 6 foot 3 inch bed, I'd recommend the Convert-A-Ball Cushioned 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Adapter w/ Offset - 12" to 16" Tall # CAB-C5GX1216 . This uniquely designed coupler system will convert your gooseneck hitch to fit with your 5th wheel kingpin. The offset ball allows you better turning clearance in your short bed truck. This system will allow you to get the most turning clearance out of your Atwood under-bed gooseneck hitch. These types of adapters can sometimes void the trailer's warranty, so you will want to check with the manufacturer before using this type of adapter.

Another option you may have is a Reese Goosebox. This is a pin box converter that has fit limitations because they have specific pin box fitments so it doesn't void the warranty. If you want to go that route, I'd need the number and manufacturer on the label of the pin box of your 5th wheel trailer. This is the safest adapter to use because it replaces the kingpin but you will still have limited turning clearance. I've attached a video so you can see this hitch adapter.

The best option for smooth ride and turning clearance is to replace the gooseneck hitch with a 5th wheel hitch. If you decide to go this route, the best hitch for your vehicle would be the Demco Hijacker Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch with Slider, # DM8550035, and # DM8552016-71. The really nice thing about this Demco Autoslide is that slides automatically as you drive so there is no getting in and out of the truck to lock and unlock the hitch and reposition for better clearance. It also makes tighter corners while driving far less difficult.

expert reply by: Jason S