Will the Ranch Hitch 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Coupler Adapter Handle Long Hauls

Updated 03/05/2014 | Published 03/02/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Ranch Hitch Universal 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Coupler Adapter

(227)

$599.98

Slide Hammer for Ranch Hitch 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Coupler Adapter

(15)

$73.08

Safety Chains for Ranch Hitch 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Coupler Adapter

(119)

$110.30

Question:

My trailer is 19500# and I always travel long distances for my work. How does this product hold up with that kinda weight on the long haul say 1500 miles.

asked by: Jimmy C

Expert Reply:

You should have no problem using the Ranch Hitch fifth-wheel-to-gooseneck coupler adapter, # AM3100 on your trailer during long hauls. This adapter is rated for a gross towing capacity of 24,000 lbs. As long as your pin weight does not exceed 6,000 lbs, you will have no problem.

The only times you will really see issues with gooseneck coupler adapters is with unusually long (38 ft or longer) and heavy trailers. In those cases, it is best to have a quality pin box and use a standard fifth wheel hitch. We have used a gooseneck coupler adapter similar to this one on our trailer for many years without issue.

Keep in mind, this adapter was designed for use with trailers that have a standard pin box or extended pin box up to 24 inches long measured diagonally. (see photo) I also recommend picking up the Safety Chains, # AM3109, and Slide Hammer, # AM3103.

If you are used to hauling a fifth wheel trailer with a standard fifth wheel hitch, I would like to mention that there will be a noticeable difference in the ride quality from using a fifth wheel hitch. This adapter can handle the workload, but a fifth wheel hitch provides more stability for the trailer resulting in a more comfortable ride.

expert reply by: John H