5th wheel to GN

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Jul 16, 2012 | 11:27 AM

adbscu

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Tuned

Joined: Dec 2007

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From: Santa Clara, CA

5th wheel to GN

My In-laws just got a new heathland Elkridge (30fT). They have a SD as well with at true 5th wheel. We might want to move short distance the rig with our truck that has a B&w turnover ball for our GN horse trailer.
Should we go for a B&W companion hitch($800+) or an adapter for the actual trailer to make it GN friendly?

My biggest problem woUld be storing the new piece at my place. I think the max we would tow it would be 400mls ( San Francisco to San Diego or viceversa) maybe 1 time a year

Thanks

Jul 16, 2012 | 12:08 PM

bpounds

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From: Whittier, CA

Is your truck a long bed? Or is the trailer contoured so that it won't be a problem with a short bed?

Gooseneck adapters are hard on fiver frames. I wouldn't let someone borrow my fiver using an adapter. The manufacturers usually won't honor a warranty if the adapter has been used. An exception is the new Reese/Lippert air cushioned adapter, but I think it costs as much as a Companion. At least Lippert gives their blessing to use it.

Jul 16, 2012 | 12:58 PM

RV_Tech

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From: Bristol, TN.

Although I am not a big fan of goosenecking RV, it sounds like that application will be pretty limited. one a year San Diego to SF, so I would be more likely to go with a gooseneck adapter.

Jul 16, 2012 | 05:40 PM

senix

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From: Frederick, MD

Once a year turns into twice or three times a year. make the investment in the hitch.

Jul 16, 2012 | 05:48 PM

P.Bronner

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From: Chico,CA.

The Reese product mentioned above is called the Goose Box and is a replacement for the original pinbox, not just an adapter so it would be a bit of a job swapping it out each time you wanted to tow that trailer. If it were me, I'd go with the Companion because it gives you more versatility with your truck and the money is just about a push.

Jul 16, 2012 | 05:54 PM

bpounds

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From: Whittier, CA

Quote:

Originally Posted by P.Bronner

Good point about it being a replacement, and I had forgot that. The inlaws might not appreciate having their pinbox disassembled every time you want to use their trailer. Also, that Goosebox isn't going to be any smaller or lighter to store.

Jul 16, 2012 | 06:05 PM

P.Bronner

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From: Chico,CA.

Of course there is always the option of getting the in-laws to put a GN in their truck. Then the trailer could be converted to the Goose Box and nobody has to lug/store a fifth wheel hitch. I have seriously considered this for my trailer but have not acted on it yet.