Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter (Hitches)

You double-checked that your truck has the necessary towing and payload capacity before purchasing your fifth wheel. However, you’ll need a particular hitch designed for transporting huge loads, and the gooseneck adaptor might be that hitch. What is a gooseneck 5th wheel adaptor? Also, review the pros and cons of the Top 5 Best Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Adapters (hitches). Continue reading to learn more about the Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck adapters and How to Convert the fifth wheel to gooseneck adapters.

Fifth-wheel-to-gooseneck adapters are a simple and practical answer to a frequent towing problem. For towing big loads, only two types of trailer hitches are used: fifth wheel and gooseneck hitches. Your tow vehicle and wheeled freight, on the other hand, may not always be compatible.

You may save time and money by purchasing a hitch adaptor that will alter your trailer kingpin and allow it to latch into a gooseneck hitch securely. These adapters make it simple to convert your RV trailer to be hauled by a gooseneck ball.

Unfortunately, deciding on the finest 5th wheel to gooseneck adapter may be difficult, especially when there are so many models with comparable features.

Types Of Trailer Hitches

Before getting to the bottom of the matter, you have to take into account that apart from the hitch, the type of vehicle you are going to use to tow the trailer is even more important. For example, it is not going to tow a boat with the same ease a car as a 4×4. That said, you have to take into account what types of hitches exist to choose the one that best suits your needs.

Fixed Hitches

These types of hitches require the right tools to assemble and disassemble them, so if you opt for one of these, it means that you need to use it for an extended period or permanently. As a side note, these are the most economical hitches. The gooseneck ball is one of the fixed hitches most common among RVers.

This is the most common ball on passenger cars. It is said to be the one that visually alters the design of the car the least. There are different sizes of it.

What Is a 5th Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter? 

First of all, let’s review what is Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Adapters. Towing a fifth-wheel travel trailer requires two different types of trailer hitches. A 5th wheel hitch and a gooseneck hitch are two different types of hitches. The fifth wheel hitch attaches to a unique fifth wheel hitch that must be placed in the truck’s bed. A gooseneck hitch attaches to a ball in the truck’s bed that is attached to the truck’s frame.

You have a few alternatives if you wish to utilize a gooseneck hitch in the bed of your truck, but your trailer has a normal 5th-wheel kingpin pinbox:

• Install the 5th wheel to gooseneck adapter connecting to the kingpin, then replace the pinbox with a gooseneck pin box.

• Connect the gooseneck ball with a specific hitch.

Towing using a gooseneck ball has a few advantages. The most significant advantage is that it eliminates the need for the massive fifth-wheel hitch in the bed, allowing the bed to be completely utilized when not towing. Towing a ball also provides additional flexibility and a highly secure connection with very little effort. This typically enhances the vehicle and trailer’s riding quality.

How Does a Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter Work?

If you keep underweight, adapters are safe. You’ll be under the weight limit and have a safer experience if you have a 12,000-pound 5th wheel and utilize an adaptor rated for 20,000 pounds of gross trailer weight.

Gooseneck 5th wheel adapters that employ the tube to attach to the kingpin, on the other hand, might place undue strain on the trailer’s frame, thereby avoiding the warranty. This is because when pulling from a low position, they provide a torsion force to the kingpin. Seeking expert guidance on this will guarantee that it is used safely.

Because the geometry of gooseneck adapter hitches and gooseneck pin boxes is comparable to that of a standard fifth-wheel connection, they do not produce frame stress. The Andersen ball connection has been put on a standard pin box. It’s worth noting that the kingpin and the ball connection (red section at the bottom) are in the same plane. This indicates that the pulling force is equal.

Although gooseneck adapters are generally safe, you don’t want to risk it. You must decide whether the gooseneck adapter is suitable for your application, and if so, which type of gooseneck adapter is most suitable.

Choosing Adapters for Towing a 5th Wheel Trailer with a Gooseneck Hitch (adapter)

Let’s review now: Towing a Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter (Hitch): Which Adapters to Use? When shopping for the finest Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Engineers and fifth-wheel hitch manufacturers appear to have inundated the market with possibilities to the point that you may feel spoilt for choice or even overwhelmed by what appear to be knockoffs.

You must be aware of key factors, such as the overall load weight of the fifth-wheel trailer you will be transporting right away.

You must also consider how the weight of the trailer may fluctuate over time. The total load on something like a fifth-wheel RV isn’t going to alter much.

When it comes to a fifth-wheel horse trailer with a tiny sleeping compartment in the front cap, there may be a huge difference in weight between when it’s empty and when it’s loaded with five horses and camping goods.

Consider the statistics and towing capacity of the towing vehicle, as well as the intended clearance between the bottom of your pin box and the tip of the gooseneck’s ball.

Short-bed trucks and gooseneck adapters are not a good match, as a general rule.

Because the fifth-wheel trailer’s front cap can approach dangerously near to the truck’s cab, you’ll need to make some fast bends or constantly reverse at an angle.

To begin, there are a few essential questions you should strive to answer to limit down your options and locate the finest gooseneck adapter for your vehicle and fifth-wheel trailer.

5 Best Fifth Wheel To Gooseneck Adapters: Rankings & Reviews

#1: Most Secure Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter: C5G Convert-a-ball Cushioned Gooseneck Adapter

There’s a lot to appreciate about the C5G Convert-a-ball, which has a towing capability of up to 20,000 pounds, a GVW tongue weight of up to 4,000 pounds, and Cushioned 360-degree movement.

It’s also adjustable, ranging from 12-inches to 16-inches in length. C5G has also done its best to make the installation process as simple as possible, including instructions in the owner’s handbook that are pretty straightforward to understand.

The collar is made to fit over the kingpin and is secured with three heavy-duty bolts. It was designed with a sliding red bar and a positive lock guided coupler for a highly secure connection. A “Fail-Safe King Pin Adapter” is also available. The C5G was also configured to take a padlock.

It also incorporates 360-degree padding in the coupler, which contributes significantly to towing comfort.

It’s especially useful if you’re towing a trailer with a GVWR of 20,000 pounds or tongue weight of 4,000 pounds and want to keep your town vehicle in good shape.

How to Install the C5G Convert-a-ball Cushioned Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter? Check out this video.

Pros and Cons C5G Convert-a-ball Cushioned Gooseneck Adapter

Pros: The C5G Convert-a-ball is the finest gooseneck hitch adapters solution for you if you require a gooseneck adapter that was developed for greater riding comfort and security.

The Fail-Safe Kingpin Adapter is one of our favorites. When hooking up and towing, it provides a very secure connection that you can rely on. Adjustability – With the ability to adjust between 12 and 16 inches, you may potentially move between several trailers.

Cons: the C5G Convert-a-ball has no remote disconnection. To connect and disengage, you must get up close and personal. That’s not a huge problem as long as you pay attention.

#2: Best 15-Inch Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter: T Built 15” Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter

One of the advantages of the T Built 15” Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter is that it allows you to tow a fifth-wheel RV without having to install a lot of hardware and other components in the cargo box of your vehicle.

You’re effectively transforming the trailer with this gooseneck adaptor. It contains a 2 5/16-inch ball as well as other essential hardware components and is meant to operate with the truck’s original turnover ball or an existing alternative gooseneck hitch.

Grade-8 mounting bolts, washers, and locknuts are included. It may be adjusted at three different heights: 12-inches, 15-inches, and even 17-inches.

The T Built 15′′ Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter offers a 20,000-pound towing capability. A self-centering locking plate is included.

This is quite useful for ensuring that the fifth-wheel trailer is securely linked. This T-built gooseneck adapter also contains a padlocked coupler if you need to detach it.

Pros and Cons T Built 15” Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter

Pros: The T Built 15” Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter is height adjustable. This gooseneck adapter’s height may be adjusted from 12 to 17 inches, making it simple to attach to the trailer. This is especially useful if you need to pull many fifth-wheel trailers for work or recreation.

Cons: The T Built 15” Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter does not provide a hide cushion. There’s no sophisticated cushioning to speak of. You’ll feel a drop in ride comfort if you’re on the higher end of the towing capacity range or if you’re driving on uneven, gravel roads.

#3: Best Ride Comfort Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter: Convert-a-ball C5GX1216 Adjustable Gooseneck Adapter

The C5GX1216 from Convert-a-ball has a rated towing capability of 20,000 pounds and a pin weight capacity of 4,000 pounds.

It’s built of tough cast steel, so you can trust it to bear the demands of towing a hefty fifth-wheel trailer. The engineering also contributes to the comfort of the ride. It also incorporates poly-cushions, which are meant to absorb stress and minimize vibration for a more comfortable ride.

The engineering reduces wear and tear on your truck, which is beneficial if your tow vehicle is a little older. The height may be adjusted by four inches. This is very useful if, for example, you need to pull a fifth-wheel equipment trailer for business and then tow a different fifth-wheel RV for vacation on weekends and holidays.

It’s also useful for reducing long-term wear and tear on your truck. If you need to pull a variety of fifth-wheel trailers while maintaining comfort and confidence, the Convert-a-ball C5GX1216 gooseneck adapter may be a perfect choice.

Pros and Cons Convert-a-ball C5GX1216 Adjustable Gooseneck Adapter

Pros: The Convert-a-ball C5GX1216 Gooseneck Adapter is height adjustable. Adjustable to a maximum of four inches, the Convert-a-ball C5GX1216 allows you to easily set it up for your specific fifth-wheel trailer or adapt it for numerous trailers. Also, they increase overall riding comfort while also reducing towing vehicle or fifth-wheel trailer wear and tear.

Cons: Despite being adjustable, it can only reach a maximum height of 16 inches. Therefore, The Convert-a-ball C5GX1216 Gooseneck Adapter is height adjustable but limited.

#4: Best 17-Inch Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter: T Built 17 with 7 3/4″ Forward Offset Gooseneck Adapter

The T Built 15-inch Adapter Hitch has a larger sibling. With this gooseneck adaptor, you may pull a fifth-wheel trailer with your B&W turn over the ball or a pre-existing gooseneck hitch with a 2 5/16-inch ball.

T Built offers all of the essential hardware, including their Grade-8 mounting bolts, washers, and locking nuts. You may modify it to 12-inch, 15-inch, or even 17-inch as needed.

This means you can set it up for almost any fifth-wheel trailer or many trailers, depending on your needs. A self-centering locking plate on the T Built 17′′ 5th Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter ensures a more solid and confident connection.

Pros and Cons T Built 17 with 7 3/4″ Forward Offset Goose Neck Adapter

Pros: With a maximum height of 17 inches and a minimum height of 12 inches, the T Built 17 with a 7 3/4″ Forward Offset Gooseneck Adapter can handle almost any fifth-wheel trailer. Also, all gear is included. This gooseneck adapter comes with all of the hardware you’ll need to install it yourself, which isn’t usually the case with rivals.

Cons: the absence of a cushion in the T Built 17 with 7 3/4″ Forward Offset Gooseneck Adapter. There isn’t much that can be done to increase ride comfort while towing, even with all of the other clever design and solid engineering. Over time, this might cause excessive wear and strain on your truck.

#5: Best Remote Release Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter: EAZ LIFT 15″ Gooseneck Adapter Remote Release

When you think about it, when a fifth-wheel trailer is hooked to a pickup truck, there are a lot of forces at work. None of those forces are especially favorable to the human body when they are unleashed.

You’ll immediately appreciate being able to release your fifth-wheel trailer for the gooseneck adapter hitch without having to get up and personalize with it. The EAZ LIFT 15″ Gooseneck Adapter Hitch Remote Release is made with the same high-quality materials and engineering that you’d expect from a market leader. It includes identical hardware components to allow you to complete your installation.

It also contains a self-centering locking plate and a pad-lockable coupler, as well as a towing capacity of up to 30,000 pounds. It may even be adjusted to a size of 12 or 15 inches. It’s only that it can’t go higher than 17 inches. The fact that it features a remote release capability distinguishes it from its predecessors.

It consists of a braided type steel cable with a handle that is pulled from a safe distance to disconnect the fifth wheel from the gooseneck adapter hitch. It’ll come in useful if you need to unhook your fifth-wheel trailer from your pickup on uneven or unlevel ground. The fifth-wheel trailer can move abruptly at disconnection in some of these conditions, causing pressures that the human body is not designed to absorb. The EAZ LIFT 15″ Gooseneck Adapter Hitch Remote Release is the ideal fifth-wheel gooseneck adapter with a remote release if you need to haul a hefty trailer and/or unhook it on uneven ground.

Pros and Cons EAZ LIFT 15″ Gooseneck Adapter Remote Release

Pros: remote release feature. You may disconnect the fifth-wheel trailer from the gooseneck hitch with a vigorous yank on the cable without putting yourself or anybody else in danger. It’s beneficial on slanted ground. Also, all the hardware is included. You can install this T-built gooseneck adaptor yourself, certain that the fasteners will withstand the demands of pulling a hefty fifth-wheel trailer. Another advantage of the EAZ LIFT 15″ Gooseneck Adapter Remote Release is the gross towing weight capacity. This gooseneck adapter has a gross towing weight capacity of up to 25,000 pounds, making it a fantastic choice for operators who need to transport a big or highly loaded fifth-wheel trailer.

Cons: The EAZ LIFT 15″ Gooseneck Adapter Remote Release has a maximum height of 15 Inches. Also, the remote release function isn’t designed to work with 17-inch screens.

Can I Convert My Standard Fifth Wheel Hitch to a Gooseneck?

Is it possible to convert a standard fifth-wheel hitch to a gooseneck hitch? Yes, you certainly can! To convert your 5th wheel to a gooseneck, you’ll need a gooseneck hitch and a gooseneck adaptor.

You’ll get a regular gooseneck ball from the hitch. The hitch will next be inserted into the rails and secured with pins.

Do I Want to Replace the Pin Box or The Fifth Wheel Hitch?

Is it better for me to replace the pin box or the fifth wheel hitch? This is a dividing line that is generally determined by whether you possess a fifth-wheel trailer or a tow vehicle truck initially.

If you already possess a vehicle with a gooseneck hitch placed in the cargo bed frame, it’s frequently less expensive to replace the pin box on the trailer.

However, there is technically a third alternative, which is to bolt an adaptor over the kingpin’s lubrication plate. You get a more secure connection with an adapter that replaces the fifth wheel hitch. However, it takes up more space and isn’t a feasible solution for a short-bed truck.

On the other hand, changing the pin box on a fifth-wheel trailer is significantly easier and generally costs less. Nevertheless, you must realize that it will require more periodic maintenance, and doing so may void the fifth-wheel trailer’s existing warranty coverage if you are a do-it-yourselfer.

You get a solid connection, a bit less maintenance, and an undoubtedly smoother ride with an adapter bolted over the lube plate of the kingpin lubrication plate. This is contingent on any further features.

What Size Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter Do I Need?

What Size Gooseneck Adapter Do I Need for My Fifth Wheel? The simplest approach to figure out what size gooseneck adapter you need is to take measurements of both the vehicle and the trailer. Also, check that your adapter is rated for the weight you’ll be towing by knowing the weight of your trailer.

When taking measurements, keep in mind the trailer’s turning radius and the height of the truck’s bed rails.

Begin by measuring from the bottom of the kingpin plate to the top of the gooseneck ball on your trailer. When collecting measurements, make sure your vehicle and trailer are on level ground.

If the vehicle and trailer are not connected, measure the heights of the hitch ball and coupler.

Next, take measurements from the top of the gooseneck ball to the ground. And again, from the ground to the bottom of the kingpin plate.

The difference between those dimensions will determine your adapter offset size. Also, make sure you have 4-6 inches of space over the bedrails from the top of your gooseneck ball to the trailer. Calculate how tall of an adapter you’ll need using this dimension. Most, however, come with 6-8 inch height adjustments.

Overall, a gooseneck adapter that directly replaces the trailer’s pin box will undoubtedly need less measurement. If you’re not conducting a complete replacement, you’ll have to rely on the old adage “Measure Twice.”

Any inaccuracies in your measurements might cause severe mechanical issues throughout the installation process.

It might also cause issues with towing comfort or cause your trailer to ride unevenly, which could be a severe issue to a fifth-wheel livestock trailer.

The exact distance between the front of the gooseneck’s ball and the bottom of the pin box is the first measurement you need to nail.

This single measurement will serve as a primary guiding light in assisting you in narrowing down your options.

The majority of gooseneck adapters are 17-inches, 15-inches, or 17-inches in length. For an 11 to 12-inch camera, a 12-inch gooseneck adapter is usually sufficient.

A 15-inch gooseneck adapter will fit 13 to 14 inches, and a 17-inch adapter will accommodate 15 to 16 inches. You can essentially go smaller but not larger.

Consult a specialist and provide him or her with your dimensions as well as information about your vehicle and trailer.

Will I Need to Remove a Gooseneck Hitch Adapter?

Will A Gooseneck Hitch Adapter Be Required to Be Removed? For some folks, modifying the hitch in the truck’s cargo box is the best solution.

It’s beneficial if you’ll be towing a fifth-wheel trailer for work regularly. After all, many three-quarter and one-ton trucks have to make a living. This may entail dragging an equipment trailer to the job site Monday through Friday and then pulling a fifth-wheel camper on weekends.

In this case, the hitch adapter’s weight is irrelevant, and you may leave it in the box all the time.

If you’re planning to use the fifth wheel hitch for vacations or hauling a livestock trailer to the fair, keeping it in the cargo box of your vehicle is a waste of space, especially if the same space is required to transport equipment, straw bales, or firewood to the campground.

In a situation like this, you might want to seek a lightweight hitch that can be removed and replaced with only two persons.

What to Consider When Buying a Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter

How to Convert the fifth wheel to gooseneck adapters. What to Look for When Purchasing a Gooseneck Adapter for a Fifth Wheel? Your trailer must be able to ride on a flat surface. Some adapters have a set height, while others may be adjusted. The adjustable adapters are more costly, so keep that in mind while making your decision.

Determine the length of the adapter you’ll need for your application if you opt to buy a fixed-height adapter. Safety chains and padlocks that lock the couplers are other options. Cushioned adapters are also a good option since they give a more comfortable ride.

Some states need chains for gooseneck hitches, even if no mention of adapters is made. Nonetheless, the chains are safety items, and your and your family’s safety is vital!

Lastly, a remote release is an excellent feature since it eliminates the need to climb into the bed of your truck to unhook the hitch. Using a handle linked to a steel cable, you may release the hitch with a remote release.

How Does Remote Release Work?

What is the Process of Remote Release? A remote release mechanism comes in useful for disengaging the fifth wheel trailer from the gooseneck adapter without exposing a human body to a potentially dangerous level of force.

The majority of these remote releases are composed of braided steel cables with a robust grip on the end.

It disengages the connection between the fifth-wheel trailer and the gooseneck adaptor hitch as you pull it.

What Are the Benefits of a Cushion?

What Are the Advantages of Using a Cushion? Some gooseneck hitch manufacturers include a cushioning system in their products.

There are a few different approaches, but the end aim is to lessen the harsh vibrations and shifting that can occur while towing a large fifth-wheel trailer with a pickup truck.

It not only improves riding comfort but can also minimize tow vehicle wear and tear over time. This is particularly useful if your truck has some structural corrosion.

Does Adjustable Height Matter?

Is it Important to Have Adjustable Height? If you have one fifth-wheel trailer and have no plans to purchase another soon, height adjustability in the gooseneck adaptor hitch isn’t a huge problem.

If you pull a variety of fifth-wheel trailers, such as an equipment trailer for work or a livestock trailer, as well as a fifth-wheel RV for vacation, a gooseneck adapter with adjustable height may soon jump to the top of your priority list!

Would You Trust a Gooseneck Adapter?

Do You Have Faith in a Gooseneck Adapter? You’re in a better position to evaluate whether a gooseneck 5th wheel adaptor is the best option for you now that you know what one is. If that’s the case, get measuring, get competent advice, install that adapter, connect her up, and go for the morning!

Establish a Budget

Some gooseneck adapter alternatives are around $400, but when you look closely, you’ll notice that they’ve made a shortcut in terms of material, design, or engineering.

As a result, think about $350 as your starting point. Opposite gooseneck adapters that cost more than $700 may be found on the other end of the range.

Keep a lookout for specific features that might improve riding comfort or security once you’re unhitched with them. Double-check the towing capacity and maximum tongue weight.

The maximum tongue weight is the maximum force that the fifth-wheel hitch can withstand. It’s always a tenth to a quarter of the claimed towing capability.

This is based on the premise that 50 to 60% of the trailer’s laden weight is distributed wisely on or in front of the axle.

Is it Safe to Use Gooseneck Fifth Wheel Adapters?

Are Gooseneck Fifth Wheel Adapters Safe? When purchasing a gooseneck adapter kit, security, safety, and overall ride comfort are all crucial factors to consider.

It’s always helpful to have security features, especially if you plan to park your fifth-wheel trailer and leave it alone for an extended amount of time.

Safety elements such as sturdy tow chains and hasps are also included in the cap to assist in preventing accidents when driving.

When unhitching, a remote release capability is also very useful for keeping you and others out of harm’s path. The gooseneck adapter normally has some padding for added ride comfort.

It not only makes for a smoother towing experience, but it also helps to decrease road noise when driving. If you have a long trip between Point A and Point B, this is something you will appreciate.

Mechanical or pneumatic cushioning is included in most high-quality fifth-wheel gooseneck adapter systems. This can have an impact on your budget, and the amenities you wish to put in your tow vehicle may restrict your options.

Try the PullRite 2400 ISR Series Superlite 20K Fifth Wheel Hitch

Want to try something simple? The PullRite 2400 ISR Series Superlite 20K Fifth Wheel is a more straightforward solution for a Fifth-wheel hitch. Watch this video below.

Conclusions

When it comes to purchasing a gooseneck adaptor hitch, there are several alternatives available.

A smart place to start is by looking for durable materials and excellent engineering concepts. Sticking to a reliable manufacturer with a solid reputation in the business is also a good idea.

After you’ve completed all of your measurements, you may begin the process of sifting through your requirements.

If you need to pull a variety of fifth-wheel trailers for business and leisure, choose the T Built 17′′ Fifth Wheel to Goose Neck Adapter with 7 3/4′′ Forward Offset, which has height adjustability from 12 inches to 17 inches.

If you have an older vehicle or plan to take your fifth-wheel trailer off the usual road, you might choose the Convert-a-ball C5GX1216, which has cushion and other technical characteristics that increase ride comfort.

You should also keep an eye out for safety and security elements along the route.

Convert the fifth wheel to the gooseneck. When you need to disconnect to utilize the vehicle to move between places, the option to padlock or disconnect using a remote release cable might come in useful. If this describes you, the EAZ LIFT 15″ Gooseneck Adapter Remote Release should be at the top of your shopping list. The PullRite 2400 ISR Series Superlite 20K Fifth Wheel Hitch is a more straightforward solution for a Fifth-wheel hitch as well.

Whatever your fifth-wheel towing requirements are, the finest gooseneck adapter for you is likely to be found on this list.

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