Can Blue Ox Gooseneck-to-5th-Wheel Trailer Hitch Adapter Be Used With Short Bed Truck?

Question:

I see that this is said to fit a long bed truck. Can it be used on a short bed?

asked by: Rudy W

Expert Reply:

The Blue Ox Gooseneck-to-5th-Wheel Trailer Hitch Adapter # BLU52XR can be used on the short bed version of the 2011 Ram 1500m but we don't typically recommend this since short bed trucks usually have issues with clearance between the truck cab and the front of the 5th wheel trailer when making tight turns.

If you don't think that will be an issue then you're more than welcome to use it! Otherwise I recommend using an adapter with an offset like the Convert-A-Ball Cushioned 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Adapter w/ 7-1/2" Offset # CAB-C5GX1216. You may not be able to make a 90-degree turn but the additional clearance will allow you to make tighter turns since the front of the trailer will be further back.

Attached are review videos of both options for you to check out. If you want to check for cab clearance you can use the following formula:

(A + B) - C = Clearance

A = Distance from center of fifth wheel hitch jaw to truck cab
B = Length of offset (slider clearance or Sidewinder offset)
C = Width of trailer divided by 2 (to get half)

You need at least 4" of clearance to be able to make a 90 degree turn.