If you’re upgrading a long-bed truck or swapping between gooseneck and 5th wheel towing, a reliable gooseneck hitch that works with existing 5th wheel rails is essential. This guide highlights five top options that convert or expand your 5th wheel setup for gooseneck trailers. It targets buyers seeking strong capacity, straightforward installation, and durable construction. Best fits include heavy-haul operators, livestock and equipment trailers, and drivers who want quick bed access without sacrificing towing power.
Summary of selected products
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| CURT 16055 5th Wheel Rail Gooseneck Hitch | Truck owners with standard 5th wheel rails | 25,000 lb GTWR, easy four-pin install | Solid all-around option |
| Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Cushioned Adapter (PSAUTO) | Budget-friendly conversion | Quick, cushioned height conversion | Best value in simple setups |
| B&W Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch | Premium, durable towing | Articulating head, quiet ride | Advanced features; higher-end choice |
| Mepareri Gooseneck Hitch Plate | Universal compatibility | 30,000 lb GTWR rating | High capacity with offset |
| GELUOXI C5G1216 Cushioned Adapter | Adjustable height and cushioning | 12″–16″ height range, 20,000 lb | Balanced for versatility |
CURT 16055 5th Wheel Rail Gooseneck Hitch, 25,000 lb, 3″ Offset
The CURT 16055 is designed for trucks with standard 5th wheel base rails and converts to a gooseneck hitch for heavy towing. It supports up to 25,000 pounds gross trailer weight and installs with four pins for quick removal and bed access. Best for buyers who need a sturdy, straightforward conversion with consistent performance across heavy loads. Avoid this if your truck bed height or rail spacing requires a different offset than the 3″ provided.
Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Cushioned Trailer Hitch Adapter
This cushioned adapter converts a 5th wheel into a gooseneck connection quickly. It’s well-suited for buyers seeking a simple, cost-effective solution to tow gooseneck trailers without changing the hitching system. Best for occasional gooseneck towing or light-to-moderate loads. Choose this if you want a fast, minimal-install option; consider a higher-capacity unit if you routinely haul heavy equipment.
B&W Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch – RVK3500
The B&W Companion is a premium solution featuring a fully articulating head for smoother front-to-back and side-to-side movement. It emphasizes durability and quiet operation, with a cam-action latching handle for easy release even on unlevel ground. Best for drivers who require top-tier reliability and reduced noise; not the lightest or cheapest option. If installation variety is crucial, this model excels in versatility and long-term performance.
Mepareri Gooseneck Hitch Gooseneck Ball Plate
The Mepareri Gooseneck Plate is a universal ball plate designed to work with any standard fifth wheel track. It supports up to 30,000 pounds GTWR and moves the pivot point back by 2 inches for cab clearance. Best for buyers who need a high-capacity, universally compatible plate with offset for better cab space. Noted limitation: always verify vehicle manufacturer guidelines for maximum tongue weight with your specific truck configuration.
C5G1216 Cushioned 5th Wheel Gooseneck Adapter
The C5G1216 from GELUOXI offers an adjustable height range from 12″ to 16″ with cushioned 360-degree support and a 20,000 lb towing capacity. It includes safety chains and is compatible with kingpin-to-gooseneck conversions. Best for users who need height versatility and cushioning to reduce hitch shock. Not recommended for trucks with beds shorter than six feet or when a cushioned king pin box is used, according to product notes.
Andersen Hitches Gen 3 Ultimate Connection
The Andersen Gen 3 Ultimate Connection is a lightweight, single-person install hitch with a high 24,000 lb GTWR and 4,500 lb tongue weight. It features two height settings for compatibility and a remote latch cable for outside-the-bed operation. Best for buyers prioritizing ease of use and minimal bed space impact. Great for frequent hitching and unhitching but may be overkill for light-duty towing needs.
JOINCARZ Gooseneck Plate with 2-5/16″ Ball
The JOINCARZ Gooseneck Plate offers enhanced towing capacity of up to 25,000 lbs GTWR and 6,250 lbs tongue weight. It fits all standard 5th wheel rails and includes four hitch pins for quick installation. Best for users who need strong, straightforward installation with high payload capability. A potential limitation is that professional installation is often recommended for optimal alignment and safety.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations for 5th Wheel Gooseneck Adapters
- Weight capacity: Match GTWR and tongue weight to your most demanding trailer to avoid overload.
- Rail compatibility: Ensure the adapter fits standard 5th wheel rails on your truck bed and aligns with rail spacing.
- Height adjustability: Look for adjustable height (12″–16″ or similar) to accommodate bed height and truck-to-trailer clearance.
- Shock absorption: Cushioned adapters reduce hitch noise and shock during braking and rough roads.
- Ease of installation: Four-pin or quick-release mechanisms save time and enable bed access when needed.
- Safety features: Consider locking pins, safety chains, and robust materials to improve security during towing.
- Engineering and fit: Prefer products with articulating heads or proven designs that maintain alignment under load.
- Maintenance: Powder-coated finishes and corrosion resistance extend life in harsh weather.
FAQ
- Q: Can I use a gooseneck adapter with any 5th wheel rail system?
A: Most adapters are designed for standard 5th wheel rails, but verify compatibility with your specific rail pattern and mounting base. - Q: What capacity do these adapters typically support?
A: Capacities range from about 20,000 to 30,000+ pounds GTWR, with tongue weights typically 4,000–6,250 pounds depending on the model. - Q: Are cushioned adapters worth it for city driving?
A: Cushioned designs help reduce shock and noise, which can be beneficial on varied road surfaces and frequent stop-and-go driving. - Q: Is professional installation recommended?
A: For higher-capacity or complex adapters, professional installation is advised to ensure proper alignment and safety. - Q: Do these adapters affect bed access?
A: Some models require four-pin installation and removal, which can preserve bed access when not towing. - Q: How do I choose between a conversion kit and a dedicated gooseneck hitches?
A: If you regularly tow both 5th wheel and gooseneck trailers, a conversion adapter offers versatility; if you primarily tow gooseneck trailers, a purpose-built gooseneck hitch may provide better handling and durability.