Okay, looks like other people are having the same questions about the differences between the Reese Signature and Reese Elite series fifth wheel hitches. At the bottom of this page Reese Elite Series Pre-Assembled 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Wiring Harness - 18,000 lbs Reese RP30142 there are some questions and answers. Seems like there isn't much difference between the two series (aside from needing the adapter for the Signature series, of course), so I still don't know why the Elite series costs so much more. I think I'll go the Signature series/adapter route and save myself some serious cash.