Comparing Goose Box to 5th Wheel Pin Box and Hitch Regarding Articulation and Capacity

Updated 03/12/2019 | Published 03/11/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Reese Elite Series Under-Bed Gooseneck Trailer Hitch for Ford Super Duty - 25,000 lbs

(93)

$848.48

B&W Companion OEM 5th Wheel Hitch for Chevy/GMC Towing Prep Package - Dual Jaw - 25,000 lbs

(5032)

$1399.00

Curt A25 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch for Chevy/GMC Towing Prep Package - Dual Jaw - 25,000 lbs

(416)

$1347.95

Curt A25 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Dual Jaw - 25,000 lbs

(416)

$1063.95

Reese Goose Box 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Air Ride Coupler Adapter - 20,000 lbs

(324)

$1656.81

Question:

I’m thinking of buying a new 5th wheel hitch but my friends say buy a gooseneck ball and a Reese goosebox because gooseneck gives you a better articulation over rough terrain. Which one is better? Is there a 5th wheel hitch that give you better articulation? My trailer will roughly about 22000 lbs when fully loaded. Oh, my truck is a 2018 F450 long bed crew cab. Thank you in advance.

asked by: David N

Expert Reply:

The Reese Goose Box # RP94720 has an integrated air back and shock system that will help on rough terrain. It works very much the same as some pin boxes like the Trailair Flex Air- 21,000 lbs # RP85FR. The issue you will find is that your trailer weight given is greater than the pin boxes we carry. The Goose Box is only rated for 20K and our pin boxes max at 21K.

For the capacity you are seeking, I recommend the Curt A25 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch- 25,000 lbs # C16180 which has a fully articulating torsion head for controlled coupling and easy connection even on uneven surfaces. It helps reduce road shock and reduces noise. It is my recommendation for you because it has the capacity you need and is height adjustable to give you more clearance over your bed rails if needed.

If you have the puck system, I instead recommend the compatible base hitch # C16066 for that same hitch, but due to the pucks there is a better option yet in the Companion # BWRVK3705 which is rated for 25K as well. It also has a fully articulating head and is just made stronger and the cam-action latch handle is better for uneven surfaces. I've attached videos to assist.

expert reply by: Jason S