Can Bed on 2019 Chevy Silverado 2500 be Raised to Install Crossbeams of B&W Gooseneck Hitch

Published 12/23/2019

Question:

Is it possible to unbolt and lift the bed instead of cutting a notch in the bed flange when installing a BWGNRK1016 on a 2019 SILVERADO 2500?

asked by: CHARLES M

Expert Reply:

If you have the ability to lift the bed of your 2019 Chevy Silverado 2500 to install the B&W Turnoverball Underbed Gooseneck Trailer Hitch # BWGNRK1016 then you definitely can do so. The notch that you are referring to is made only because there isn't enough room for the crossbeams to slide in under the bed flange. For most people, raising the bed is a lot more challenging than just cutting a notch in the flange. Since this isn't a crucial piece to the integrity of the bed B&W just says to cut that notch in the flange.

I will say that the bed flange that you cut isn't noticeable unless you are really looking for it and I'm sure that cutting the flange will be a bit easier than lifting the entire bed. Since you will be making holes in the bed for the gooseneck hitch ball receiver and safety chain loops I don't think that modifying the flange is a big issue but I do understand the desire to keep everything as factory-looking as possible.

One other thing you might consider looking into is an in-bed 7-Way connector like part # 50-97-410 which makes connecting/disconnecting your trailer 7-Way much easier.

Attached are installation videos of the B&W hitch and this wiring on a '19 Silverado 2500 that you can check out.

expert reply by: Jon G