Measuring for a Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Trailer Adapter

Updated 11/09/2009 | Published 11/08/2009

Question:

to measure for the gooseneck? My trailer is on level ground but the truck is at a pitch. I also have some rails on the bed of the truck. I measure 9 inches from the tip of the ball to the flat part of the fifth wheel? should I give myself some extra inches to clear the rails or should I think about removing the rails? I would like to order the correct length so that I would not remove anything? what would be the solution?

asked by: Eric A

Expert Reply:

To measure correctly for a Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Trailer Adapter (see link) you will need to have your vehicle and trailer positioned level. If your truck is at a pitch or parked on a grade, and the trailer is level, the measurement will not be correct and the trailer will not be level when towing. Adding extra inches to an adapter, to clear bed rail mounted accessories, will cause the trailer to be towed out of level and will increase stress on the hitch and the towing vehicle along with negatively affecting ride.

Once you have the vehicle and trailer level you can measure the distance between the top of the ball mount and the bottom of the king pin to determine if there will be enough space for the rails on the sides of your bed. You will need at least 6 inches of clearance from the top of the rail to the bottom of the trailer loft to avoid contact between the trailer and the bed rail mounted accessory.

expert reply by: Robert G