Will The Ranch Hitch Adapter Work with Recessed Truck Beds?
Updated 05/18/2026 | Published 05/09/2026
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
Will the ranch coupler Part Number: AM3139 work with my nortsar flatbed with a recessed ball? Or is there a better option. I also have 3 ft from the headache rack to the center of the ball. Pictures with rough measurements included. Any help is greatly appreciated. V/R Daniel
asked by: Daniel
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Expert Reply:
Hi Daniel,
For The Ranch Hitch Universal 5th Wheel to Gooseneck Coupler Adapter part # AM3139 to fit your truck's flatbed has to meet certain measurements. The hitch adapter requires at least 5 5/8" of area around the ball, based off the photos you included, it looks like you have 7" of clearance around the ball, which is more than enough. However, the adapter is only 4 3/4" in height from the bottom of the coupler to the horizonal arm on the Rand Hitch. If the gooseneck ball is recessed greater than 4 3/4", then it won't be compatible with the Ranch Hitch adapter. Your photo showing the depth of the recessed area looks to be 5" which is just over the 4 3/4", because of that I don't recommend you use the Ranch Hitch. It's a very close measurement and if you redo the measurements and find that it is less than 5" it could work.
To ensure compatibility and safe hauling though, I recommend you use the Demco Recon Gooseneck to 5th Wheel adapter for Recessed Ball part # DM8550046. Its base is 22" x 22" so it will fit within the 3' of space you have from the center of the ball to your headache rack. It has the same 21K towing capacity, adjustable height to match the pin box, and has built-in polyurethane dampeners to absorb road shock and reduce sway.
What pin box do you have on your fifth wheel trailer?
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Tim B.
5/13/2026
I have one of these on my trailer and I really like the way it pulls with this hitch. However it clearly will not work for your situation based on your measuremnts. It will definately interfere with the bed as it is not tall enoiugh to get out of the pocket . Im not even sure you would get it fully attached . You will need to look for some other option.
Claire H.
5/13/2026
Louis B.
5/18/2026
Hello, I have to say that my hitch has been a vital piece in moving my fifth wheel! It works like a charm! Thanks for helping us short bed people!
Claire H.
5/18/2026
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Ranch Hitch Universal 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Coupler Adapter w/8" Offset for Short-Bed Trucks
- 5th Wheel Gooseneck Adapter
- Adapts Trailer
- 5th Wheel Trailer to Gooseneck Hitch
- Provides Extra Clearance
- 24000 lbs
- Bolts Over King Pin
- Not Shock Absorbing
- Andersen
more information >
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Ben
5/12/2026
Yes, it will work. Mainly if you’re on mostly flat ground. But will come into contact if you are in a severe entrance to the driveway. Upgrade to the extended ball.