Which Gives More Turning Clearance a Hitch Ball Offset or a Gooseneck Coupler Offset

Published 09/25/2018

Question:

Trying to decide whether I need BandW 4 inch ball extension or the 10 inch Extend a Goose. Understand how to make clearance calculation for square front trailer. I can intuitively see that the vee shape front provides some additional clearance relief, but dont know how to determine how much. Is there a set formula?

asked by: Gary B

Expert Reply:

The ball extension part # BWGNXA4085 actually gives more clearance than a gooseneck coupler extension. Reason being that with the ball extension you move the pivot point back but with the coupler extension the offset's additional clearance diminishes the tighter you turn (when you need it the most) so it's not as effective.

To determine if you can safely make tight turns, there is a formula you can follow.

Measure the distance from the center of the gooseneck ball to the back of the truck cab and add in any offset used (in this case 4 inches). Call this measurement A. Next, measure the width of the trailer overhang and divide by 2 to get half, measurement B. If A is 4 inches or more than B then you can safely make 90 degree turns.

expert reply by: Jameson C