Can I Install Custom 5th Wheel Rails on 2011 Chevrolet Silverado with B&W Gooseneck Hitch

Updated 12/09/2014 | Published 12/08/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Curt X5 5th Wheel Base Rails Adapter for B&W Turnoverball Gooseneck Trailer Hitches - 20,000 lbs

(282)

$749.95

B&W Companion Gooseneck-to-5th-Wheel Trailer Hitch Adapter - Dual Jaw - 20,000 lbs

(599)

$1099.00

Question:

Have a 2011 Silverado 3500 HD Duramax with 8 foot bed. It has a BandW Gooseneck installation which looks custom fit as the bracket matches the frame holes. Q: Can I install a custom Reese rail for Universal fit for a Reese R20 Fifth Hitch with the Gooseneck still installed? I will be pulling a Fifth Wheel in the 16K Gross range. Understand not advisable to use a Gooseneck adaptor on Fifth Wheel because of displacement and frame twisting. Advice? Thx

asked by: Jerry F

Expert Reply:

If you currently have a Reese fifth wheel hitch that fits industry standard rails I recommend taking a look at the Curt X5 Fifth Wheel Adapter for B and W Square Shank Turnover Ball Hitches, # 16310. This adapter was designed for use with the B&W hitch and unlike most gooseneck to fifth wheel adapters, this will still allow you to tow your fifth wheel trailer with a fifth wheel hitch.

Another option, especially if you do not currently own a fifth wheel hitch, is to go with the B&W Companion, # BWRVK3500. This hitch adapter allows you to convert your B&W gooseneck hitch to a fifth wheel hitch and it's rail-free design provides full access to your truck bed when the hitch is removed.

Custom fifth wheel rails can not be installed on your 2011 Chevrolet Silverado with the B&W gooseneck hitch in place.

I have attached a couple of videos and articles for you.

expert reply by: Leah S