Converting a gooseneck trailer to a 5th wheel connection requires a reliable adapter that meets safety standards and towing specifications. We researched and compared the top models on Amazon using manufacturer specs, industry standards, and aggregated owner feedback. Our evaluation covers performance, durability, ease of use, and safety to help you choose the right adapter for your truck and trailer setup.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
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CURT 16620 Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Adapter Best Overall Fits 2-5/16 inch gooseneck ball, 16,000 lb capacity |
9.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
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B&W Trailer Hitches GN8165 Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Adapter Premium Pick Fits 2-5/16 inch gooseneck ball, 16,000 lb capacity |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Reese Towpower 78332 Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Adapter Best Value Fits 2-5/16 inch gooseneck ball, 15,000 lb capacity |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Demco 8550065 Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Adapter Lightweight Champ Fits 2-5/16 inch gooseneck ball, 15,000 lb capacity, aluminum construction |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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PullRite 4400 Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Adapter Stability Focus Fits 2-5/16 inch gooseneck ball, 16,000 lb capacity, patented anti-chuck design |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Curt 16500 Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Adapter Budget Pick Fits 2-5/16 inch gooseneck ball, 12,000 lb capacity |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Trailer Parts Superstore 5th Wheel Gooseneck Adapter Basic Utility Fits 2-5/16 inch gooseneck ball, 14,000 lb capacity |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. CURT 16620 Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Adapter: Best Overall
The CURT 16620 is a popular choice among RV owners and heavy haulers. In our evaluation, it offers excellent build quality with a durable steel frame and a protective coating that resists rust. Owner feedback highlights its straightforward installation and secure connection. The adapter handles up to 16,000 pounds, making it suitable for most fifth wheel trailers. However, we noted that the included safety chain loops might not align perfectly with all trailer chains, requiring users to adjust or replace them. This is a minor inconvenience but worth considering if your trailer has non-standard chain lengths.
This adapter is ideal for those who prioritize strength and reliability. Skip it if you need a lighter-duty adapter for occasional towing or if your gooseneck ball is a different size, as the CURT 16620 is designed specifically for a 2-5/16 inch ball.
- Rugged steel construction with anti-rust coating
- Quick and easy installation without tools
- Includes safety chain loops and clear instructions
Pros: High weight capacity for heavy trailers; Corrosion-resistant finish for longevity; Secure fit with minimal play
Cons: May require longer safety chains on some trailers
2. B&W Trailer Hitches GN8165 Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Adapter: Premium Pick
The B&W GN8165 is engineered for those who demand the best. Its machined steel construction ensures a precise fit that eliminates wobble, a common complaint with cheaper adapters. Owner feedback consistently praises its stability and ease of use. In our research, it meets all safety standards and includes well-placed safety chain hooks. However, the premium build comes at a higher cost, and the adapter is heavier than some competitors, which can affect your truck’s payload capacity. This is a trade-off for unmatched durability.
This adapter is perfect for frequent towers who want a long-lasting, wobble-free connection. Skip it if you are on a tight budget or if your truck has limited payload capacity, as the extra weight may be a concern.
- Machined from high-strength alloy steel
- Precision fit with no wobble
- Integrated safety chain attachment points
Pros: Exceptional build quality and tight tolerances; Easy to install and remove; Very stable during towing
Cons: Premium price point; Heavy weight adds to payload
3. Reese Towpower 78332 Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Adapter: Best Value
The Reese Towpower 78332 is a budget-friendly option that still delivers reliable performance. In our evaluation, it offers a decent 15,000-pound capacity and a powder-coated finish that resists rust. Owner feedback indicates it installs easily and works well for most fifth wheel trailers. However, some users noted a slight wobble when towing at highway speeds, which can be annoying but not dangerous. This is likely due to the looser tolerances compared to premium models. For the price, it’s a solid choice for occasional use.
This adapter is best for those who need a dependable solution without breaking the bank. Skip it if you frequently tow heavy loads or require a wobble-free ride, as you may be better off with a higher-end model.
- Affordable price without sacrificing quality
- Powder-coated finish for corrosion resistance
- Simple bolt-on installation
Pros: Good value for the price; Solid construction; Works well for medium-duty trailers
Cons: Slightly lower weight capacity than top picks; Some users report minor wobble at highway speeds
4. Demco 8550065 Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Adapter: Lightweight Champ
The Demco 8550065 stands out for its lightweight aluminum construction, which makes it easy to handle and reduces the impact on your truck’s payload. In our research, it performs well for most fifth wheel trailers up to 15,000 pounds. Owner feedback praises its ease of installation and corrosion resistance, especially in salt-prone areas. However, some users expressed concerns about the long-term durability of aluminum compared to steel, particularly under heavy use. We also noted that the safety chain attachment points are adequate but not as robust as on steel models.
This adapter is ideal for those who prioritize weight savings and ease of use, such as RVers with lighter trailers. Skip it if you tow heavy loads frequently or expect the adapter to withstand years of abuse, as steel models may last longer.
- Aluminum construction reduces weight significantly
- Corrosion-resistant and easy to handle
- Quick installation with no tools required
Pros: Lightweight design reduces payload strain; Easy to install and remove; Good corrosion resistance
Cons: Aluminum may not be as durable as steel over time; Slightly lower weight capacity
5. PullRite 4400 Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Adapter: Stability Focus
The PullRite 4400 is designed to minimize chucking and provide a smoother towing experience. In our evaluation, its patented anti-chuck design works well to reduce back-and-forth movement, which is a common complaint with gooseneck conversions. Owner feedback generally praises its stability, but some noted that installation is more involved due to the additional components. We also found a few reports of fitment issues with non-standard gooseneck balls, so it’s important to verify compatibility. The adapter is built with heavy-duty steel and offers a high 16,000-pound capacity.
This adapter is best for those who want a stable, chuck-free ride and are willing to spend extra time on installation. Skip it if you prefer a simple, straightforward adapter or if your gooseneck ball has unusual dimensions.
- Patented design reduces chucking and wobble
- Heavy-duty steel construction
- Includes locking pin for added security
Pros: Excellent stability and reduced chucking; High weight capacity; Secure locking mechanism
Cons: More complex installation than basic adapters; Some users report fitment issues with certain gooseneck balls
6. Curt 16500 Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Adapter: Budget Pick
The Curt 16500 is an entry-level adapter that gets the job done for lighter fifth wheel trailers. In our research, it offers a 12,000-pound capacity and a simple design that installs quickly. Owner feedback is mixed: some appreciate the low cost, while others report surface rust developing within months, especially in humid climates. We also noted that the safety chain loops are functional but not as robust as on heavier-duty models. For occasional towing of smaller trailers, it may suffice, but we have concerns about long-term durability.
This adapter is suitable for those with lightweight trailers and a tight budget. Skip it if you tow frequently or in wet conditions, as the rust issue may be a dealbreaker. Consider spending a bit more for better corrosion resistance.
- Entry-level price point
- Steel construction with black powder coat
- Includes safety chain loops
Pros: Very affordable; Lightweight for easy handling; Works for lighter trailers
Cons: Lower weight capacity limits use; Some owners report rust after a few months
7. Trailer Parts Superstore 5th Wheel Gooseneck Adapter: Basic Utility
The Trailer Parts Superstore adapter is the most basic option we evaluated. It provides a functional connection for gooseneck to fifth wheel conversion but lacks the refinement of higher-priced models. In our research, owner feedback highlights that the paint finish is prone to chipping, which can lead to rust over time. Additionally, some users report a loose fit that causes noticeable play during towing. The safety chain loops are basic and may not inspire confidence for heavy loads. While it meets minimum safety standards, we recommend it only for light, occasional use.
This adapter is best for those who need an inexpensive solution for infrequent towing of small trailers. Skip it if you prioritize durability, safety, or a wobble-free ride. Investing in a better-coated model will save headaches down the road.
- No-frills design
- Steel construction with basic paint finish
- Simple bolt-on installation
Pros: Lowest cost option available; Adequate capacity for many trailers; Easy to install
Cons: Paint finish chips easily, leading to rust; Less refined fit, some play reported; Safety chain attachment is minimal
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a gooseneck to 5th wheel adapter is compatible with my truck?
Check your truck’s gooseneck ball size (typically 2-5/16 inches) and ensure the adapter matches. Also verify your truck’s towing capacity exceeds the adapter’s rated capacity. Measure the distance from the ball to the tailgate to ensure the adapter fits without interference.
Can I use a gooseneck to 5th wheel adapter with any fifth wheel trailer?
Most adapters work with standard fifth wheel kingpins, but you must ensure the adapter’s weight rating exceeds your trailer’s gross weight. Also check that the adapter’s height positions the trailer level when hitched.
Is it safe to use a gooseneck to 5th wheel adapter?
Yes, when properly installed and matched to your trailer’s weight. Look for adapters that meet SAE J684 or similar standards. Always use safety chains and inspect the adapter for wear before each trip.
Do I need to modify my truck or trailer to use an adapter?
No modification is typically required. The adapter sits on the gooseneck ball and the fifth wheel kingpin locks onto it. However, you may need to adjust or replace safety chains if they are too short.
What is the difference between a gooseneck to 5th wheel adapter and a fifth wheel slider?
A gooseneck adapter converts a gooseneck ball to accept a fifth wheel kingpin. A fifth wheel slider allows the hitch to move fore-aft for better maneuverability. They serve different purposes and can be used together if needed.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing the top gooseneck to 5th wheel adapters, we recommend the CURT 16620 as the best overall for its balance of durability, ease of use, and value. For those seeking premium stability and build quality, the B&W GN8165 is an excellent runner-up, albeit at a higher price point. Choose based on your weight requirements, budget, and tolerance for wobble.
