How to Convert a Fifth Wheel Trailer to a Gooseneck

Converting a fifth wheel trailer connection to a gooseneck is easily done. The advantage of the conversion is the gooseneck acts as a shock absorber and you will get less wear and tear on your equipment. It reduces vibrations and bounce. Doesn’t permit movement of any more than ¾ of an inch. You can lock or unlock the hitch without actually getting into the bed to do it. Here is how to do the switchover.

Items you will need:

• Screwdriver


• Wrench


• Measuring tape


• Gooseneck adapter
  
  
  1. Use the measuring tape to find the distance from the ground to the top of the fifth wheel hitch in the truck bed. Make certain the trailer is level and measure the distance of the gooseneck receiver from the ground. When you buy the gooseneck adapter make certain that with the height adjustment fitting you can make those two measurements close to equal so they will fit together.
  
  
  2. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and place the adapter on the kingpin. Generally the adapter will be secured in position by setscrews or horseshoe clamps on each side. Then you will have to bolt it down with your wrench using bolts and washers, which are normally provided in the kit. This adapter will not ever move. All movement is done at the gooseneck ball so be sure to lock this adapter firmly in position.
  
  
  3. Back the vehicle under the gooseneck so the receiver is directly underneath the ball. Make sure the coupler is unlatched and lower the trailer onto the fifth wheel hitch. Once you have the trailer firmly lowered onto the vehicle’s receiver assembly finish raising the jacks on the trailer until they are completely raised for travel. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and finish by locking the coupler to the flat bed hitch. You are now ready to pull the trailer.