Converting a 5th wheel trailer to tow with a gooseneck hitch offers increased flexibility, especially for those who frequently switch between different trailer types or need an unobstructed truck bed. Our team has extensively researched and compared numerous 5th wheel gooseneck hitches and adapters, analyzing manufacturer specifications, published industry safety standards, and aggregated owner feedback to identify the most reliable and effective options available.
In this guide, we evaluate each product based on its design, weight capacity, ease of installation, and overall towing experience. We aim to provide an evidence-based comparison to help you make an informed decision, highlighting both the strengths and potential limitations of each pick to ensure it aligns with your specific towing requirements and vehicle setup.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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Andersen Ultimate Connection (Gooseneck Version) Our Top Pick 32,000 lbs GTWR / 8,000 lbs vertical load |
9.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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B&W Trailer Hitches GNRK1314 Gooseneck Hitch Premium Choice 30,000 lbs GTWR / 7,500 lbs vertical load |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Reese Goose Box Gooseneck Coupler Best Ride Quality Available in 16,000 lbs and 20,000 lbs GTWR versions |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Gen-Y Hitch Executive 5th Wheel to Gooseneck Pin Box Innovative Design 20,000 lbs GTWR / 2,500 lbs vertical load (varies by model) |
8.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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CURT Manufacturing 16085 EZr Gooseneck Adapter Reliable Performer 20,000 lbs GTWR / 5,000 lbs vertical load |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Demco Hijacker Autoslide Gooseneck Adapter For Short Bed Trucks 21,000 lbs GTWR / 5,250 lbs vertical load |
7.5 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Draw-Tite 9470 Gooseneck Adapter Budget-Friendly Option 20,000 lbs GTWR / 5,000 lbs vertical load |
7.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Andersen Ultimate Connection (Gooseneck Version): Our Top Pick
In our evaluation, the Andersen Ultimate Connection (Gooseneck Version) stands out for its innovative, lightweight design and ease of use. While its aluminum construction is a significant advantage for handling, some owner feedback suggests that the specific gooseneck ball requirements can sometimes necessitate additional considerations for compatibility with existing truck bed setups. It is crucial to verify your truck’s gooseneck ball dimensions and capacity before purchase.
This hitch is an excellent choice for those prioritizing reduced weight and simplified installation. However, users who frequently tow extremely heavy commercial loads nearing the upper limits of its capacity, or those who prefer the traditional solid-steel feel of a conventional hitch, might find alternative options more aligned with their preferences. Its unique connection style, while efficient, may also require a brief adjustment period for first-time users.
- Lightweight design, often under 50 lbs, for easy installation and removal.
- Precision machined from aircraft-grade aluminum for strength without excess weight.
- Features a ball-funnel design for simple hitching, even on unlevel terrain.
Pros: Significantly lighter than traditional steel hitches, aiding in maneuverability.; Utilizes a simple ball and funnel system, simplifying the hitching process.; Less susceptible to rust and corrosion due to aluminum construction.
Cons: May require specific gooseneck ball setups for optimal fit and function.; The unique design might not appeal to users accustomed to traditional hitching.
2. B&W Trailer Hitches GNRK1314 Gooseneck Hitch: Premium Choice
The B&W GNRK1314 Gooseneck Hitch is consistently praised in owner feedback for its robust construction and reliability. While its integrated design offers superior strength and a clear truck bed when not in use, our research indicates that the installation process is more involved than simpler adapter solutions, often requiring professional assistance or significant DIY effort. This is primarily due to its under-bed mounting system.
This hitch is ideal for truck owners who regularly tow gooseneck trailers and desire a permanent, integrated solution with unmatched durability. However, those who only occasionally use a gooseneck setup and prefer a quick, tool-free installation for a removable adapter, or who are not prepared for a more extensive installation, might find its complexity a drawback. Its higher weight also slightly impacts vehicle payload capacity.
- Converts quickly from a gooseneck hitch to a smooth, flat bed.
- Features a robust, heavy-duty steel construction for maximum durability.
- Equipped with a simple turnover ball lever for easy engagement and disengagement.
Pros: Exceptional durability and strength, built for demanding towing applications.; Allows for a completely clear truck bed when the ball is stowed.; Known for precise fit and finish, reducing rattling during towing.
Cons: Installation can be more complex and time-consuming compared to adapter-style hitches.; Its heavy-duty construction means a higher overall weight.
3. Reese Goose Box Gooseneck Coupler: Best Ride Quality
Based on owner feedback and manufacturer specifications, the Reese Goose Box consistently delivers a superior towing experience by significantly reducing chucking and jarring. However, a key limitation is that it requires replacing the existing 5th wheel pin box, which is a more involved and potentially permanent modification to the trailer. This conversion is not a simple install and may require some mechanical aptitude or professional assistance.
This product is an excellent choice for dedicated 5th wheel owners who want to convert to gooseneck towing while prioritizing ride comfort and a clear truck bed. However, if you prefer a non-invasive solution that doesn’t alter your trailer’s structure, or if you frequently switch back to a traditional 5th wheel hitch, this modification might be too extensive. The need for regular air pressure checks also adds a minor maintenance task.
- Replaces the standard 5th wheel king pin box with an air-ride gooseneck coupler.
- Integrated air bag and dual shock absorbers smooth out road bumps.
- Designed to reduce chucking and jarring, improving towing comfort.
Pros: Significantly enhances ride quality by absorbing road shock and vibration.; Eliminates the need for a bulky 5th wheel hitch in the truck bed.; Maintains the trailer's turning radius without requiring a slider hitch.
Cons: Requires modification to the trailer's pin box, which can be irreversible.; Airbag maintenance and pressure checks are necessary for optimal performance.
4. Gen-Y Hitch Executive 5th Wheel to Gooseneck Pin Box: Innovative Design
Our evaluation of the Gen-Y Hitch Executive highlights its innovative Torsion-Flex technology, which provides a notable improvement in ride quality by mitigating road shock. However, similar to other pin box replacements, it requires a significant modification to the trailer, which involves removing the factory pin box and installing the Gen-Y unit. This is not a quick, tool-free solution and may require professional installation or a comfortable level of mechanical skill.
This product is best suited for 5th wheel owners who prioritize a smoother towing experience and are committed to converting their trailer to a gooseneck setup. Those who prefer a non-permanent, easily removable adapter, or who are not comfortable with modifying their trailer’s structure, should consider other options. The unit’s weight also needs to be factored into the trailer’s overall pin weight.
- Features Torsion-Flex technology to absorb road shock and vibration.
- Replaces the standard 5th wheel pin box for gooseneck compatibility.
- Designed to significantly reduce bucking and chucking for a smoother tow.
Pros: Torsion-Flex system provides excellent shock absorption, enhancing ride comfort.; Eliminates the need for an in-bed 5th wheel hitch, freeing up truck bed space.; Heavy-duty construction, built for demanding towing scenarios.
Cons: Requires modification and replacement of the trailer's existing pin box.; Can be a heavier unit compared to some adapter-only solutions.
5. CURT Manufacturing 16085 EZr Gooseneck Adapter: Reliable Performer
The CURT 16085 EZr Gooseneck Adapter offers a practical and robust solution for converting a 5th wheel king pin to a gooseneck connection. However, based on our research and owner feedback, a common concern is the additional height it adds to the trailer’s connection point. This can significantly reduce the clearance between the truck bed rails and the underside of the 5th wheel, especially on trucks with lower bed heights or trailers with minimal factory clearance. Careful measurement is essential before purchase.
This adapter is a suitable option for those seeking a durable, no-frills gooseneck conversion without modifying the trailer’s pin box, provided adequate truck bed clearance is maintained. However, individuals towing with short bed trucks, or those with trailers already close to their bed rails, should exercise caution and consider alternatives that do not raise the hitch point as much. It also does not offer the ride comfort benefits of air-ride or torsion-flex systems.
- Converts a standard 5th wheel king pin to a gooseneck ball mount.
- Features a heavy-duty steel construction for reliable towing.
- Designed for quick and relatively straightforward installation onto the king pin.
Pros: A straightforward solution for converting a 5th wheel to gooseneck.; Solid steel construction ensures durability and strength.; Generally more accessible for DIY installation than full hitch replacements.
Cons: Adds significant height to the trailer's hitch point, requiring careful bed clearance.; Can introduce more chucking and jarring compared to air-ride systems.
6. Demco Hijacker Autoslide Gooseneck Adapter: For Short Bed Trucks
The Demco Hijacker Autoslide Gooseneck Adapter is specifically designed to address the challenge of towing a 5th wheel trailer with a short bed truck using a gooseneck connection, offering an automatic sliding mechanism. However, our research indicates that the added complexity of the sliding mechanism contributes to a significantly heavier and bulkier unit compared to fixed gooseneck adapters. This extra weight can consume a portion of the truck’s payload capacity and make installation/removal more challenging.
This adapter is a strong consideration for owners of short bed trucks who require a gooseneck conversion and need the automatic cab clearance feature. However, if you own a long bed truck or a short bed truck where you are confident in manual maneuvering without a slider, the added weight, complexity, and potentially higher acquisition cost of this unit might not be justified. Its moving parts also suggest a need for more diligent maintenance.
- Automatic sliding mechanism for increased turning clearance in short bed trucks.
- Converts 5th wheel king pin to a gooseneck ball connection.
- Heavy-duty construction for reliable towing performance.
Pros: Provides crucial clearance for short bed trucks, preventing cab damage during turns.; Eliminates the need for manual sliding, improving ease of use during maneuvers.; Robust design capable of handling significant towing capacities.
Cons: Significantly heavier and bulkier than non-sliding adapters.; More complex design means a higher maintenance potential compared to simpler units.
7. Draw-Tite 9470 Gooseneck Adapter: Budget-Friendly Option
The Draw-Tite 9470 Gooseneck Adapter provides a functional and often more budget-friendly solution for converting a 5th wheel king pin to a gooseneck connection. However, based on aggregated owner feedback and our specification review, one of its primary limitations is the potential for a less forgiving ride quality compared to systems with integrated shock absorption. Without air-ride or torsion-flex technology, more road shock and chucking can be transferred to the tow vehicle.
This adapter is a suitable choice for occasional gooseneck towing or for users where cost is a significant factor and ride comfort is a secondary concern. However, those who frequently tow over long distances, or who are particularly sensitive to trailer movement and desire a smoother, more refined towing experience, should consider investing in systems with advanced shock dampening. Always verify your truck bed clearance after installation due to the added height.
- Converts a standard 5th wheel king pin to a gooseneck ball mount.
- Adjustable height settings for compatibility with various truck and trailer setups.
- Features a durable, black powder-coat finish for corrosion resistance.
Pros: Offers a more accessible point of entry for gooseneck conversion.; Adjustable height provides some flexibility for bed clearance.; Relatively straightforward installation onto the king pin.
Cons: Can contribute to a harsher ride quality due to lack of shock absorption.; May add substantial height, potentially impacting bed rail clearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary benefit of converting a 5th wheel to a gooseneck hitch?
The main benefit is freeing up the truck bed when not towing. Gooseneck hitches typically use an under-bed ball, leaving the bed clear for hauling other items when the trailer is unhitched. It also allows for easier switching between different types of trailers, such as flatbeds or livestock trailers, that utilize a gooseneck connection.
Will a gooseneck adapter affect my 5th wheel's turning radius?
A standard gooseneck adapter that replaces the king pin will not inherently change the trailer’s turning radius. However, if you are using a short bed truck, you must ensure adequate clearance between the trailer’s front cap and the truck’s cab during sharp turns. Some specialized gooseneck adapters, like those with automatic sliders, are designed specifically to address this issue for short bed trucks.
Do I need to modify my truck for a 5th wheel gooseneck hitch?
For an adapter, you typically need a truck that already has a factory or aftermarket gooseneck ball installed. For full gooseneck hitch systems like the B&W Turnoverball, an under-bed frame installation is required. This often involves drilling into the truck frame and bed, which is a more significant modification than simply installing an adapter onto a trailer’s king pin.
Are gooseneck adapters safe for all 5th wheel trailers?
While generally safe, it is crucial to ensure the adapter’s capacity matches or exceeds your trailer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and pin weight. Additionally, some trailer manufacturers may void warranties if a gooseneck adapter is used, citing concerns about stress points on the trailer frame not designed for gooseneck towing. Always consult your trailer manufacturer’s guidelines and warranty information before installing an adapter.
How does a gooseneck conversion affect ride quality?
Simple gooseneck adapters that replace the king pin often provide a firmer ride, potentially increasing chucking or jarring compared to traditional 5th wheel hitches or gooseneck systems with integrated air-ride or torsion-flex technology. Products like the Reese Goose Box or Gen-Y Executive are specifically designed to improve ride quality by incorporating shock absorption mechanisms, offering a smoother towing experience.
Our Verdict
After extensive research and comparison, the Andersen Ultimate Connection (Gooseneck Version) stands out as our top pick due to its innovative lightweight design, ease of use, and strong performance. It offers a practical solution for freeing up truck bed space without the bulk of traditional hitches. Our runner-up, the B&W Trailer Hitches GNRK1314 Gooseneck Hitch, is a premium choice for those seeking unparalleled durability and a completely clear truck bed through a robust, integrated under-bed system, albeit with a more involved installation process.
Last reviewed and spec-checked: June 9, 2026. We re-check our picks and listings periodically.
