Can B&W Extend-A-Goose Gooseneck Coupler be Installed Without a Cross Pin

Updated 05/28/2022 | Published 05/27/2022

Question:

I own a 2010 Silverlite LQ horse trailer, which only uses set screws for the coupler, no cross pin. I did see your answer to a prior question about this, but Im still concerned that the Extend-A-Goose could rotate off center under emergency braking. Do you have a recommended torque the set screws should be tightened to, or just spot torque them tighten until you see spots? Ive called around too see about having the trailer drilled for a cross pin, which also seems like a viable option. Im towing with a 2020 Ram 2500 short bed, I need the extra clearance this product offers. Any suggestions are appreciated.

asked by: BRENDON L

Expert Reply:

The B&W Extend-A-Goose Gooseneck Coupler # BWTEXA4200 is a great solution for your application. The torque setting that B&W calls out for the set bolt can be found in the instructions (which I'm linking to this page). We try to avoid calling out specifics for torque specs just in case the manufacturer changes something down the road so it's always best to check the current instructions.

If this were a straight coupler you'd be just fine with the set bolt and no cross pin but since this has the offset I do recommend having a professional (or get professional advice) drill out the outer tube on the coupler so you can use a cross pin to help make sure the offset stays in the correct direction.

expert reply by: Jon G