Gooseneck vs. 5th Wheel: What’s the Difference?

You need a new hitch. Your current hitch, perhaps what your truck came from the manufacturer with, just isn’t cutting it! You don’t shop for a purchase like this very often, though. In fact, you may have never bought a hitch before in your entire life! There’s no shame in needing a little help in order to know which option is right for you and your towing needs. Your two main choices are either a 5th wheel hitch or a gooseneck hitch. What is the difference? And more importantly, which one is right for you?

“A hitch is a hitch… there’s not really a difference.” Have you ever said this? It’s a common misunderstanding, but it’s a misunderstanding nonetheless. There are 5th wheel hitches, adjustable hitches, gooseneck trailer hitches, receiver hitches, air pin boxes, and so many more. 

Before making a purchase, knowing which is right for you is important. This depends on the vehicle you are doing the towing with and what you are actually towing. Livestock trailers, boat trailers, and large motor homes all have different hitch requirements. A little bit of time spent researching your options will save you a lot of confusion and stress in the long run. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Top 4 Differences Between Gooseneck and 5th Wheel

1. How the Hitch Connects to the Trailer

The main difference is that a 5th wheel hitch uses jaws and a kingpin to connect to your trailer. A 5th wheel hitch is installed in the bed of your truck and connects to your trailer using a kingpin, a pin facing downward. On the other hand, a gooseneck has a ball and coupler.

2. 5th Wheels Take More Space

A second difference is that a 5th wheel hitch, while offering more stability and improved recreational towing, is more invasive to install and takes up more space in the bed of your truck when compared to a gooseneck.

3. Goosenecks Are Often Used for Commercial Purposes

The gooseneck’s small design is minimally invasive and cheaper to purchase and install. This makes it the correct choice for you, right? Not necessarily. In fact, it typically isn’t the go-to hitch for towing RVs. Gooseneck couplers are more often used for commercial towing or horse and livestock trailers. 

4. 5th Wheels Are Mostly Used for Recreational Towing

Conversely, the 5th wheel is a great option for recreational towing. Though it takes up more space in your truck bed and is fairly invasive to install, the 5th wheel offers greater stability for larger recreational vehicles. Converting your 5th Wheel trailer to a Gooseneck coupler is not recommended due to the additional stress it puts on the trailer frame in the front of the trailer.

Now that you’re a little more knowledgeable, it is time to make a purchase. When you take your time and do your due diligence, you will be much better off in the end. You’ll get the right hitch, for the right price, when you shop online.

Buy Air Hitches for a Better Towing Experience

Looking for the perfect hitch? Look no further than Air Safe Hitches! Our company specializes in air hitches—a complete system that rides on an airbag alone and requires no hinges or rubber parts. Not only do these reduce driver fatigue, but they also increase tire life, improve overall safety, and increase ride control.

Now that you know the differences between gooseneck and 5th wheel trailers, take advantage of all that Air Safe Hitches offers for better towing experiences. Enjoy greater stability for larger recreational vehicles as well as increased fuel efficiency, tire life, and overall safety.