Does a 5th Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter Add Stress to a 5th Wheel Trailer Towed by 2011 Ford F-350

Updated 12/14/2010 | Published 12/13/2010

Products Featured in This Question

Convert-A-Ball Cushioned 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Adapter - 12" to 16" Tall - 20,000 lbs

(983)

$579.02

Reese M5 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch for Ford Towing Prep Package - Single Jaw - 20,000 lbs

(465)

$1029.62

Reese M5 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch for Ford Towing Prep Package- Single Jaw - 27,000 lbs

(465)

$1121.23

Question:

I have bought a new 2011 Ford F-350. It has the gooseneck hitch prep kit. I have a 2005 37 foot Keystone toyhauler. Does converting this fifth wheel to a gooseneck situation put too much stress on the frame of this 5th wheel?

asked by: Curt D

Expert Reply:

Using a 5th wheel to Gooseneck adapter, like the Convert-A-Ball Multi-Cushioned 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Coupler Adapter, # CAB-C5G, can apply added stress to the trailer frame. You will need to contact Keystone to determine if the trailer can be used with a 5th wheel to gooseneck adapter. The biggest drawback will be a decrease in ride quality.

If the trailer has an extended pin box or requires additional support, reinforcement of the trailer frame will be required and should be performed by a qualified professional welder. I have included a link to a video review of the adapter.

Also, this adapter should not be used with Ford factory prep package because of the plastic latch on top of the factory ball. A nut inside adapter # CAB-C5G will damage the nut.

The towing prep package, if installed at the Ford factory, should also provide mounting locations in the bed of the truck for a 5th wheel trailer hitch. A trailer hitch that will fit is the M5 series of Reese 5th wheel trailer hitches like # RP30921 or # RP30922. Ride quality will be greatly improved over using an adapter, and you will not have to reinforce the trailer frame.