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Hauling trailers is always a lot of stress on your truck. Some trailers are heavier than others, and there are many different hitch styles and mounting locations to choose from. Finding the right trailer and hitch for your needs is the first step to get you started towing loads with your truck.

What Is A Goose Neck Trailer?

Essentially a gooseneck trailer is a lot like a fifth wheel trailer in that the load is attached to a mount inside the bed of the truck. The big difference is that a gooseneck hitch uses a ball and coupler not a kingpin like the fifth wheel setup. The ball is mounted to a frame that can be installed in the bed but that takes up some space, or under the bed, if you want to retain the use of the bed when you are not towing with the truck. 

Common Uses for Gooseneck Hitches

Many different trailers use a gooseneck mount. The most common ones are large flatbed trailers used to haul equipment, cattle trailers used on ranches, horse trailers and some car trailers. While not everyone needs a gooseneck trailer, they can make hauling heavy loads a lot easier. 

Advantages of a Gooseneck Hitches

Gooseneck hitches offer you a lot of advantages over the traditional bumper mounts. Because the hitch is mounted directly over the rear axle and not at the bummer, the weight transfer is better and the trailer stability is increased. Lateral forces are transferred directly to the tires and axle, not to the rear of the truck.

Gooseneck trailers often have lower deck heights than standard trailers do. Because of the trailer design, the deck can be positioned lower during the construction. This deck height allows for easier loading and unloading of the trailer and a lower center of gravity. The trailer will pull straighter and can put a lot less stress on the truck that is towing it.

Having A Gooseneck Hitch Installed

When you are ready to have a gooseneck hitch installed on your truck, it is a good idea to take the truck in a trailer dealer that offers hitch installation, The hitch needs to be correctly positioned over the axle properly, or the truck may handle funny. If you can't find a dealer in your local area, the manufacturer can help you find someone that they recommend. You do not have to use that installer but make sure that the installer understands the process and can do the job right.