Which Curt CrossWing 5th Wheel Hitch is Better? Gooseneck or 5th Wheel Rail Connection?

Updated 04/19/2026 | Published 03/31/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Curt CrossWing Lightweight Gooseneck-to-5th-Wheel Trailer Hitch Adapter - 20,000 lbs

(12)

$998.95

Curt CrossWing Lightweight 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - 20K

(91)

$749.95

Adapter Rails for Curt 5th Wheel Hitch - Ford and Chevy/GMC Towing Prep Package

(748)

$476.95

Question:

I currently have an Andersen Ultimate fifth wheel hitch on my 2024 f250 with the 6 3/4 bed towing 2025 alliance avenue 23ml. I have had no problems turning. I am interested in the curt crosswing to improve chucking, I’m trying to decide between rail system or the one that goes on the gooseneck, given my current setup, is there any benefit to one over the other?

asked by: Randy S

Expert Reply:

Hey Randy. Comfort and stability wise the Curt CrossWing item # C86JR that attaches to 5th wheel rails isn't going to be better than the Curt CrossWing item # C32DR for gooseneck hitch balls. The gooseneck version does provide a 9" offset compared to the 5th wheel rail option being only 5". That extra 4" is really going to help your turning clearance.

Unless you have 5th wheel rails in your 2024 Ford F-250, I recommend the Curt CrossWing item # C32DR for gooseneck hitch balls. The support rails built into the base help with stability similar to 5th wheel rails. It's pretty versatile too as it will attach to all OEM and aftermarket gooseneck hitches. Plus you can completely remove it and have full access to your bed.

Please note that the Curt CrossWing item # C86JR that attaches to 5th wheel rails does not work with gooseneck adapters. If you have the factory puck system you'll also need to purchase the Adapter Rails item # C88KR. It will add 3-1/2" of height to your 5th wheel hitch.

Does your F-250 have the puck system or 5th wheel rails installed in the bed? Also what pinbox is on your 2025 Alliance Avenue 23ml? I want to make sure you don't run into any compatibility issues.

You can add this information, along with any other questions you have, where it says Add Comment.

expert reply by: Jerred H

C32DR
(click to enlarge)

Randy S.

4/6/2026

Thank you, my f250 does have the puck system and my alliance has the curt rotoflex. Right now we have a lockout on the flex part of the pin box that came with the Andersen. One more question what’s your thoughts on the blue ox gooseneck hitch? Basically, I’m trying to determine if either the curt crosswing or blue ox are an upgrade from my Andersen? As stated before, I’ve started leaning towards the crosswing. We’ve had some chucking issues with the Andersen and it just doesn’t seem super secure to me.

Jerred H.

4/6/2026

@RandyS You're welcome! The Curt CrossWing item # C32DR is going to be compatible with your Rotoflex pin box so long as you keep it locked out. I really like the Blue Ox item # BLU52XR but in your situation, the Curt CrossWing item # C32DR is going to be the better option due to the 9" of offset. You'll definitely need that for the turning clearance. The Curt CrossWing item # C32DR is going to be an improvement over your Andersen. It has a cushion in the center receiver section that is specifically designed to absorb the jerking, jarring, and chucking you get when towing a trailer.

Randy

4/6/2026

@JerredH Thank you

Randy

4/6/2026

@JerredH Do you happen to know how high I’d need to adjust the hitch to clear my bed? Or is that different with each trailer?