How to Improve Turning Clearance with Toyota Tundra Towing a Gooseneck Trailer 8ft Wide

Updated 06/18/2014 | Published 06/16/2014

Question:

Hello. I have a Draw-Tite under bed gooseneck hitch in a 6 1/2 foot Tundra bed, just acquired a trailer that is 8foot wide and the hitch is right under the front, about 4 1/2inch square tube. Anything you could suggest to extend the distance between the back of the cab and the front of the trailer? I looked at the Gooseneck Hitch Ball with 2-5/16inch Diameter and 5inch Offset but it seems Id need about 12. Either a longer hitch ball offset or a way to extend the hitch with and offset would work - I think. Thanks in advance.

asked by: Thomas B

Expert Reply:

The best offset option available for your Toyota Tundra and your gooseneck trailer is the Draw-Tite Gooseneck Hitch Ball with 5 Inch Offset, # 19308, that you referenced. Gooseneck hitches were not designed to provide additional offset for gooseneck trailers and short bed trucks, but this offset ball will improve your turning clearance by approximately 10 degrees.

As you may have already determined, this ball will not allow you to safely make a 90 degree turn, but it will allow the best turning clearance for your situation. At this time there are no offset gooseneck balls that will move the trailer pivot point 12 inches further away from the cab of the truck.

expert reply by: John H