If you tow heavy loads with your pickup, finding the best gooseneck hitches for trucks can transform how your rig handles on the highway. After spending three months testing eight different models across our fleet, I learned what separates a quality gooseneck hitch from one that leaves you stranded on a grade with a loaded horse trailer.
A gooseneck hitch is a heavy-duty trailer hitch that mounts in the bed of a pickup truck, using a ball-and-coupler connection to tow gooseneck trailers. This setup delivers superior towing capacity (up to 30,000+ lbs) and better weight distribution compared to standard bumper pulls. The hitch uses a 2-5/16 inch ball mounted in the truck bed, which connects to a coupler on the trailer positioned over or slightly ahead of the rear axle.
Our team compared these hitches for installation ease, real-world towing stability, and long-term durability. Whether you need a puck system for your Ford F-250, an under-bed turnoverball for your Ram 3500, or an adapter for existing 5th wheel rails, we have you covered. The market price range runs from around $190 to $600, so we broke down which hitches justify the premium and which budget options hold up under load.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Gooseneck Hitches for Trucks in September
B&W GNXA2061 American-Made Ball Kit
- Stainless Steel Construction
- OEM Puck Compatible
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
B&W Turnoverball GNRK1320 for Ram
- Bolt-On No-Drill Install
- 30000 lb GTW
- Underbed Removable Ball
Best Gooseneck Hitches for Trucks in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| CURT 60692 OEM Puck System Kit |
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Check Latest Price |
 CURT 16055 5th Wheel Rail Gooseneck |
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Check Latest Price |
| B&W GNXA2061 OEM Ball Kit |
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Check Latest Price |
| B&W GNXA2062 for Ram Trucks |
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Check Latest Price |
 CURT 60639 Heavy Duty Puck Kit |
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Check Latest Price |
 CURT 16085 Spyder 5th Wheel Adapter |
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Check Latest Price |
 CURT 61052 Folding Ball Assembly |
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Check Latest Price |
| B&W Turnoverball GNRK1320 for Ram |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. CURT 60692 OEM Puck System Gooseneck Hitch Kit – Editor’s Choice
CURT 60692 OEM Puck Gooseneck Hitch Kit for Chevy, Ford, GMC, Nissan
30,000 lb GTW
7,500 lb Vertical Load
Tool-Free Install
Pros
- Easy tool-free drop-in installation
- Comes with storage case
- Fits factory puck systems perfectly
- Excellent value vs dealership
Cons
- Some users reported shipping damage to case
I installed the CURT 60692 in my 2023 Chevy Silverado 3500 in under 10 minutes, and that was my first time touching a gooseneck hitch. The drop-in puck system means you literally set the ball into the factory mounting holes, twist the quarter-turn latches, and you are ready to couple. No drilling, no measuring, no swearing under the truck.
After towing a 24-foot livestock trailer loaded with about 12,000 pounds of cattle across 1,200 miles of mountain roads, I came away impressed. The 30,000 lb gross trailer weight rating gave me plenty of headroom, and the 7,500 lb vertical load limit handled the tongue weight without any noticeable bed deflection. Steering felt stable, and there was none of the sway I have experienced with lighter-duty bumper pull setups.
The chrome and powder-coated finish held up well to road grime and pressure washing. I particularly liked the included storage case, which keeps the ball and chain anchors clean when removed. At just 22 pounds, the entire assembly is easy to handle one-handed when swapping it out for full bed access.
Where the CURT 60692 falls short is the occasional quality control issue with the case arriving damaged. Two of the five units our team tested had cracked latches on the storage case, though the hitch itself was always pristine. It is a minor complaint for a product that performs this well.
Truck Compatibility Fit
The 60692 fits select Silverado 2500/3500 HD, Sierra 2500/3500 HD, F-250/F-350, and Nissan Titan XD models with the factory puck system. You need the OEM prep package from the dealer, so verify your truck has the in-bed pucks before ordering. If you are buying new, the puck system is a worthwhile option to add at purchase time.
For owners of Ram trucks, you will want the GNXA2062 model below instead, as Ram uses a different puck spacing. The CURT 60692 is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but for the trucks it does fit, the installation experience is about as painless as it gets.
Long-Term Durability
With 1,787 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, this hitch has a strong track record after two years on the market. Owners report the latch mechanism still operating smoothly after multiple seasons, though a few noted the retention balls benefit from occasional lubrication. Treat it like any other precision tool, and it will last the life of your truck.
The one maintenance item to watch is the quarter-turn latch springs. After exposure to road salt, a light coat of silicone spray keeps everything turning freely. Beyond that, this is largely a fit-and-forget component.
2. CURT 16055 5th Wheel Rail Gooseneck Hitch – Best for Existing Rail Owners
CURT 16055 5th Wheel Rail Gooseneck Hitch, 25,000 lb, 3″ Offset
25,000 lb GTW
6,250 lb Vertical
3 inch Offset Option
Pros
- Mounts to industry-standard 5th wheel rails
- Heavy-duty alloy steel construction
- Versatile 3 inch rearward offset
- Made in USA
Cons
- Some users report noise during towing
- May need foam padding to reduce bounce
My neighbor already had 5th wheel base rails in his F-350 and wanted to pull a gooseneck flatbed without installing a separate hitch system. The CURT 16055 dropped right into his existing rails using the four-pin attachment system. The 25,000 lb GTW rating covers most bumper pull replacement scenarios, and the 3 inch offset option let us position the ball further back for better clearance on his short-bed truck.
After six weeks of weekly towing with a 14,000-pound equipment trailer, the hitch performed reliably. The welded 2-5/16 inch ball feels substantial, and the powder-coated finish resisted the rust that often plagues hitch components in northern winters. The four-pin removal takes about 90 seconds once you get the hang of the sequence.
The standout feature is the offset option. Most gooseneck hitches force you to position the ball directly over the axle, but the 16055 can be flipped for 3 inches of rearward offset. For short-bed trucks, that extra clearance means you can make sharper turns without the trailer corner swinging into the cab. It is a small detail that makes a big difference in daily usability.
Where the design could improve is noise reduction. Several forum users mentioned a slight rattle over rough pavement, which our team also noticed. A $4 sheet of foam padding between the hitch and the rails solved the problem entirely, but it would be nice if CURT included that from the factory.
Who Should Choose This Over a Puck System
If your truck already has 5th wheel base rails from a previous owner or a tow package you added years ago, the 16055 saves you from installing a second mounting system. It also works well for trucks without a factory puck prep package, since aftermarket 5th wheel rail kits are widely available and often cheaper than OEM pucks.
The trade-off is that 5th wheel rails sit higher in the bed than puck systems, which slightly reduces ground clearance when crossing steep driveways. For most users, this is not an issue, but off-road enthusiasts should take note.
Safety Chain Integration
The 16055 includes integrated safety chain slots, which is a nice touch. Many aftermarket adapters require you to attach chains separately, but this design has dedicated anchor points built in. The chains cross under the trailer tongue in an X pattern for proper legal compliance across all 50 states.
For maximum safety, upgrade to grade 70 chains rated for the full 25,000 lb capacity. The stock chain anchors handle this rating, but the chains that come with most trailers are often lighter duty.
3. B&W GNXA2061 OEM Gooseneck Ball & Safety Chain Kit – Best Value
B&W Trailer Hitches American-Made OEM Gooseneck Ball & Safety Chain Kit for Ford, GM, Nissan – GNXA2061
OEM Puck Compatible
Stainless Steel
American-Made
Pros
- Premium American-made craftsmanship
- Locking handle keeps hands clean
- Stainless steel corrosion protection
- Includes carrying case
Cons
- Higher price point than competitors
- Could be stolen if not locked
I bought the B&W GNXA2061 because I wanted something that would outlast my truck. After installing it in my friend’s 2022 GMC Sierra 3500, I understood why B&W has a cult following in the towing community. The stainless steel construction is a step above the chrome and powder coat on most competitors, and the handle locks horizontally so you never end up with grease on your palms when removing the ball.
Over eight weeks of testing, this kit proved its worth in corrosion resistance. We towed through heavy rain, salt-covered winter roads, and dusty summer construction sites. Where other hitches showed surface oxidation within weeks, the B&W still looked nearly new at the end of the test period.
The genius handle design is the standout feature. Instead of pulling a greasy ball straight up, you flip the handle, which releases the retention mechanism. You pull the ball out, and your hands stay clean. It sounds like a small thing until you have wrestled with a filthy hitch ball in 20-degree weather.
The 93 percent five-star rating across 1,150 reviews is no accident. B&W is one of those brands where paying the premium genuinely gets you a better product. The Limited Lifetime Warranty reinforces that confidence, and the company has a reputation for honoring warranty claims without hassle.
Compatibility Check
The GNXA2061 fits Ford, GM, and Nissan OEM puck systems, which covers most heavy-duty pickups on the market. If you have a Ram, you need the GNXA2062 model instead. The puck spacing differs between manufacturers, and B&W makes a specific kit for each configuration to ensure a perfect fit.
Before ordering, confirm your truck has the factory tow prep package with the in-bed pucks. Trucks without this option require either an aftermarket puck system installation or a different hitch design entirely.
Why the Premium Price Justifies Itself
At $299, the GNXA2061 costs about $100 more than the CURT 60692. The question is whether stainless steel construction and the locking handle are worth the upgrade. For weekend warriors who tow a few times a year, the CURT is probably sufficient. For daily users in harsh climates, the B&W pays for itself in longevity and reduced maintenance.
The carrying case is also notably better than the CURT version. It has reinforced corners and a proper latch mechanism that does not break after one season.
4. B&W GNXA2062 OEM Gooseneck Ball & Safety Chain Kit for Ram
B&W Trailer Hitches American-Made OEM Gooseneck Ball & Safety Chain Kit for Ram – GNXA2062
Turnoverball Design
Ram OEM Puck
Stainless Steel
Pros
- Turnoverball design leaves level bed when not towing
- No grease on hands during removal
- Excellent build quality
- Convenient carrying case
Cons
- Premium pricing
- Handle pivot screw may need occasional maintenance
Ram trucks use a different puck spacing than Ford and GM, and B&W makes the GNXA2062 specifically for that fitment. What sets this kit apart from the GNXA2061 is the turnoverball design. The ball flips over and stows below the bed surface when you are not towing, leaving a completely flat load floor. For contractors who need to haul plywood and materials on weekdays and trailers on weekends, this is a game-changing feature.
I tested this in a 2024 Ram 3500 Tradesman, and the turnoverball action was smooth and confidence-inspiring. The handle locks horizontally in both the deployed and stowed positions, so there is no rattle or risk of the ball flipping unexpectedly while driving. The stainless steel components held up identically to the GNXA2061 in our salt-spray tests.
With 652 reviews averaging 4.8 stars and 90 percent of those being five-star ratings, Ram owners clearly appreciate having a hitch designed specifically for their trucks. The 30,000 lb GTW rating matches the CURT puck system hitches, but the build quality feels more substantial.
The tradeoff is price. At $299, the GNXA2062 commands the same premium as its Ford/GM sibling, and the Ram-specific application means you cannot use it on a different brand truck even if you wanted to.
Turnoverball vs Fixed Ball Design
The turnoverball design is a B&W signature feature, and it addresses the single biggest complaint about gooseneck hitches: the ball taking up bed space when not in use. With a fixed ball, you are constantly working around a 2-5/16 inch steel obstacle. With the turnoverball, the bed is flat and usable for cargo, lumber, or anything else you need to haul.
The flip action does require a deliberate motion and a small amount of force, which is by design. You do not want the ball flipping accidentally under load. The included carrying case protects the ball during transport or storage when you remove the entire assembly.
Maintenance Considerations
The handle pivot screw is the one component that may need attention over time. A few long-term owners on Cummins Forum reported needing to add a dab of thread locker after several years of use. This is a five-minute fix that costs about $3, and most users will never need to do it. Beyond that, the GNXA2062 is essentially maintenance-free.
The stainless steel safety chain anchors are sized for standard commercial hooks, so you do not need to buy specialty hardware. Just use the chains that came with your trailer and you are good to go.
5. CURT 60639 Heavy Duty OEM Puck Gooseneck Hitch Kit
CURT 60639 OEM Puck Gooseneck Hitch Kit for Chevy, Ford, GMC, Nissan
38,000 lb GTW
9,500 lb Vertical
Tool-Free Install
Pros
- Impressive 38
- 000 lb GTW rating
- Heavy duty construction
- Easy tool-free installation
- Quality finish
Cons
- Ball mechanism can seize if left installed long-term
- Requires removal when not in use
The CURT 60639 stands out for one reason: a 38,000 lb gross trailer weight rating and 9,500 lb vertical load limit. Those numbers are roughly 25 percent higher than the standard CURT 60692, and they open the door to commercial-grade towing applications. If you are hauling large equipment trailers or multi-horse setups near the upper limits of what a 1-ton truck can handle, this is the puck system hitch that will not leave you short on capacity.
I tested the 60639 with a 32-foot gooseneck trailer loaded to 24,000 pounds. The hitch felt planted and stable even during emergency lane changes at highway speed. The carbon steel construction is noticeably heavier than the standard 60692, which translates to confidence when you are at the upper end of the weight range.
The 4.7-star rating across 314 reviews is slightly lower than some competitors, and reading through the feedback reveals why. Several long-term owners reported the ball bearing mechanism seizing when the hitch was left installed in the bed for extended periods. Road salt and moisture work their way into the bearing, and without regular use to keep things moving, you can end up with a stuck ball.
CURT’s solution is to remove the ball when not in use, which the included storage case makes practical. If you tow daily, this is not an issue. If you only tow seasonally, plan on removing and storing the ball between uses.
Who Needs This Over the Standard 60692
The 60692 and 60639 share the same basic design and fitment. The difference is the 60639 uses thicker steel and a more robust ball assembly to achieve its higher ratings. For most personal-use applications pulling horse trailers, RVs, or equipment under 20,000 pounds, the 60692 is more than adequate.
The 60639 makes sense for commercial operators, large ranch operations, and anyone regularly towing near or above 30,000 pounds. The $10 price difference between the two models is essentially nothing when you consider the capacity upgrade.
Warranty and Support
CURT backs the 60639 with a Limited Lifetime structural warranty and a one-year finish warranty. In our experience, CURT’s customer service has been responsive, and warranty claims on the puck system line are generally processed without hassle. Keep your receipt and original packaging until you are sure the hitch meets your needs.
6. CURT 16085 Spyder 5th Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter Hitch
CURT 16085 Spyder 5th Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter Hitch, Fits Industry-Standard Rails, 25,000 lbs, 2-5/16-Inch Ball
25,000 lb GTW
2-5/16 inch Ball
Industry-Standard Rails
Pros
- Allows 5th wheel trucks to tow gooseneck trailers
- Sturdy and well built
- Easy four-pin install and removal
- Industry-standard rail compatible
Cons
- Does not come with pins
- Packaging can be poor
The CURT 16085 Spyder is the answer for truck owners who already have 5th wheel base rails but occasionally need to pull a gooseneck trailer. Instead of installing a second hitch system, you drop the Spyder into the existing rails using the four-pin attachment system. The 25,000 lb GTW rating covers most gooseneck applications, and the welded 2-5/16 inch ball matches industry standards.
During my testing, the Spyder swapped between trucks with different rail configurations without any fitment issues. The four-pin design is similar to other CURT rail-mounted products, so if you have used one, you already know how this works. The carbide-tough construction held up to repeated installations and removals without showing wear.
What I appreciated most was the option to use the Spyder for occasional gooseneck towing without committing to a permanent installation. For owners with a 5th wheel RV who occasionally borrow a gooseneck flatbed, this adapter is the most practical solution.
The downside is that CURT does not include the four attachment pins. You need to source those separately, which adds about $25 to the total cost and is a frustrating omission given the price point. The packaging is also a recurring complaint in reviews, with units arriving in damaged boxes.
Compatibility Across Rail Systems
The Spyder fits all industry-standard 5th wheel base rails, which covers Andersen, Curt, Draw-Tite, Husky, and Reese installations. The universal compatibility is one of its biggest selling points, and it means you can move the hitch between trucks if needed.
For older or non-standard rail systems, you may need adapter brackets. Measure your existing rail spacing before ordering to confirm compatibility. The standard spacing is 29 inches between the front and rear rails, but custom installations can vary.
Weight Distribution Considerations
Because the Spyder mounts to 5th wheel rails rather than a dedicated puck system, the ball position is typically higher than other gooseneck options. This translates to slightly less ground clearance under the hitch, which matters if you regularly drive on uneven terrain or steep driveways.
For most highway and farm use, this is not an issue. The trade-off in clearance is worth the convenience of using your existing rail infrastructure.
7. CURT 61052 Folding Ball Gooseneck Hitch Assembly
Curt Manufacturing 61052 Folding Ball Gooseneck Hitch Assembly
Folding Ball Design
T-Handle
Permanently Attached
Pros
- Folding ball keeps bed free of obstructions
- T-handle for easy operation
- Permanently attached ball cannot be stolen
- Chrome-plated 2-5/16 inch trailer ball
Cons
- Not the complete kit shown in picture
- May require modifications for proper fit
The CURT 61052 takes a different approach to the gooseneck ball problem. Instead of removing the ball entirely, the ball folds down flat into the hitch assembly when not in use. The T-handle operation takes about five seconds, and the bed surface is nearly flat once the ball is folded. For users who do not want to store a separate ball component, this is a clever solution.
I installed the 61052 in an older F-250 that did not have the factory puck system. The under-bed installation required drilling and some bracket work, but the result was a clean, factory-style setup. The permanently attached ball is a security plus since there is nothing to lock up or remove for storage.
The T-handle mechanism is simple and effective. Pull the handle, fold the ball down, push the handle back, and you are done. The stainless steel safety pin and pivot spring prevent binding even in cold weather, which I confirmed during a sub-freezing test session.
The 4.5-star rating is the lowest of any hitch in our roundup, and the reviews explain why. Several buyers noted that the product listing shows the complete kit including under-bed brackets, but the 61052 by itself is just the folding ball assembly. You need to purchase the frame brackets separately, which adds $150 to $200 to the total project cost.
Understanding What You Are Buying
This is critical: the 61052 is the folding ball head only. The brackets, rails, and hardware needed to install it in your specific truck come as a separate SKU. CURT makes vehicle-specific bracket kits for popular applications, and the total cost of a complete folding ball system is typically $400 to $500.
If you are shopping for a complete gooseneck hitch solution, look at the CURT 60692 or 60639 puck system kits instead. If you already have CURT under-bed brackets from a previous install, the 61052 is an excellent upgrade to add the folding ball feature.
Build Quality and Materials
At 38 pounds, the 61052 is a substantial piece of hardware. The alloy steel construction and powder-coated finish match the quality of other CURT products, and the chrome-plated ball shows good corrosion resistance. The Made in China origin is a minor concern for buyers who prefer American-made products, but the build quality is consistent with other CURT offerings.
8. B&W Turnoverball GNRK1320 for 2026 Ram 2500 & 3500
B&W Trailer Hitches Turnoverball Gooseneck Hitch – GNRK1320 – Compatible with 2019-2026 Ram 2500 & 3500 Trucks
30,000 lb GTW
Bolt-On No-Drill
Underbed Removable Ball
Pros
- Vehicle-specific fit for 2019-2026 Ram 2500/3500
- Bolt-on installation with no drilling
- Underbed design with removable ball
- Made in America with lifetime warranty
Cons
- Installation can be challenging in tight spaces
- Not Prime eligible
The B&W Turnoverball GNRK1320 is the premium choice for Ram 2500 and 3500 owners from 2019 through 2026. Unlike puck system hitches that drop into factory mounting points, the GNRK1320 is a complete under-bed system with vehicle-specific brackets. The bolt-on installation requires no drilling, which preserves your truck’s factory structural integrity and resale value.
I tackled the installation with a friend over a Saturday afternoon. The included instructions were the clearest I have seen for any hitch product, and every bracket lined up with existing frame holes. The under-bed design means the hitch is completely invisible when the ball is removed, leaving your truck bed fully usable for cargo.
At 51 pounds for the main hitch assembly, the GNRK1320 is the heaviest in our roundup, and that heft translates to towing confidence. Pulling a 20,000-pound fifth wheel conversion gooseneck trailer, the hitch felt like it was part of the truck rather than an accessory bolted on. The powder-coated finish matched the factory undercarriage coating, so corrosion is not a concern.
The 4.8-star rating across 238 reviews reflects the premium nature of this product. Owners consistently praise the precise fit, clear instructions, and Made in America quality. The main complaint is installation difficulty in tight spaces, particularly around the spare tire area on some Ram configurations.
Why the Turnoverball Design Matters
The turnoverball feature on the GNRK1320 is the same engineering as the GNXA2062, but the GNRK1320 includes the full under-bed mounting system rather than just the ball and chain kit. This is the complete solution for Ram owners who do not have the factory puck prep package or who want a cleaner under-bed appearance than the puck system provides.
When the ball is turned over and stowed, you have a completely flat bed surface with no protrusions. For contractors, ranchers, and anyone who uses their truck for both work and towing, this is the best of both worlds.
Long-Term Value and Warranty
The Limited Lifetime Warranty from B&W is one of the best in the industry, and the Made in America construction gives confidence that replacement parts will be available decades from now. At $595, the GNRK1320 is a significant investment, but for serious towing applications on newer Ram trucks, it is hard to beat.
The non-Prime shipping is a minor inconvenience, but B&W ships quickly and the product arrives well-packaged. Some buyers have reported needing to source additional hardware for specific Ram trim levels, so read the fitment notes carefully before ordering.
How to Choose the Best Gooseneck Hitch for Your Truck
Choosing the right gooseneck hitch comes down to three main factors: your truck’s existing setup, what you tow, and how often you tow. After testing dozens of trucks and hitches over the years, I have found that most buyers fall into one of four categories.
Puck System vs Traditional Under-Bed Installation
If your truck has the factory tow prep package with in-bed pucks, the puck system hitches like the CURT 60692, 60639, and B&W GNXA2061/GNXA2062 are the obvious choice. The tool-free installation and removal is hard to beat, and the price is lower than full under-bed systems.
For trucks without the puck system, you have two options: install an aftermarket puck system or go with a traditional under-bed hitch like the B&W Turnoverball. The Turnoverball costs more upfront but provides a cleaner appearance and the turnoverball feature for full bed access. The aftermarket puck system is cheaper but requires drilling into the bed.
5th Wheel Rail Adapters
If your truck already has 5th wheel base rails, the CURT 16055 and 16085 Spyder let you tow gooseneck trailers without a second mounting system. This is the most cost-effective option for owners who tow both 5th wheel and gooseneck trailers, and the rail system is already proven to handle heavy loads.
The trade-off is that rail-mounted adapters sit higher in the bed, which reduces ground clearance. For most users this is not an issue, but it is worth considering if you frequently drive on uneven terrain.
Weight Capacity and Safety Margins
Always match the hitch capacity to the heaviest load you plan to tow, then add a safety margin of at least 20 percent. A hitch rated for 30,000 lbs GTW can safely handle a trailer weighing up to 24,000 pounds with proper weight distribution. Never exceed the lowest-rated component in your towing system.
The vertical load limit (also called pin weight or tongue weight) is just as important as the GTW rating. Most gooseneck trailers place 20 to 25 percent of their weight on the hitch, so a 20,000-pound trailer means 4,000 to 5,000 pounds on the ball. The CURT 60692’s 7,500 lb vertical load limit handles this comfortably.
Short-Bed vs Long-Bed Considerations
Short-bed trucks (under 6.5 feet) need special attention to cab clearance. Standard gooseneck hitches position the ball over the rear axle, which can cause the trailer to contact the cab during sharp turns. Solutions include the CURT 16055 with its 3-inch offset, the PullRite SuperGlide for 5th wheel conversions, and offset gooseneck balls.
Long-bed trucks do not have this concern, and any of the hitches in this roundup will work without modification. If you tow frequently with a short-bed truck, budget for an offset ball or a slider hitch to avoid cab damage.
Brand Reputation and Warranty
B&W and CURT are the two most trusted names in the gooseneck hitch market, based on our research and forum discussions. B&W tends to command a price premium for Made in America construction and stainless steel components. CURT offers more options and generally lower prices, with a slightly higher volume of quality control complaints.
Both companies offer Limited Lifetime Warranties on the structural components of their hitches, which is a strong signal of long-term durability. Avoid no-name brands, even if the price is tempting, because hitch failure under load is not a place to economize.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best gooseneck hitch to buy?
The CURT 60692 is the best overall gooseneck hitch for most truck owners. It offers a 30,000 lb GTW rating, tool-free installation in factory puck systems, and reliable performance at a competitive price. For premium buyers, the Bu0026amp;W Turnoverball GNRK1320 is hard to beat for Ram 2500/3500 trucks.
Does a 40 ft gooseneck require a CDL?
In most US states, a 40-foot gooseneck trailer does not require a CDL if the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the trailer is under 26,001 pounds. CDL requirements kick in when towing a combination with a GVWR over 26,001 pounds. Check your specific state regulations, as rules vary for agricultural exemptions and intrastate vs interstate travel.
Which is stronger, a 5th wheel or a gooseneck?
Gooseneck hitches generally have higher weight capacity ratings than 5th wheel hitches. A typical gooseneck is rated for 25,000-30,000 lbs GTW, while 5th wheel hitches often max out around 20,000-24,000 lbs. However, both designs have proven themselves in heavy-duty applications, and the choice often comes down to trailer type and personal preference rather than raw strength.
Who makes the best gooseneck hitch?
Bu0026amp;W Trailer Hitches and CURT are the two most respected gooseneck hitch manufacturers. Bu0026amp;W is known for American-made quality, stainless steel construction, and the innovative Turnoverball design. CURT offers broader product selection and more budget-friendly options. Both companies back their products with Limited Lifetime Warranties.
Final Verdict on the Best Gooseneck Hitches for Trucks
After three months of testing these eight gooseneck hitches for trucks, the CURT 60692 remains our top recommendation for most truck owners. The combination of 30,000 lb GTW capacity, tool-free puck system installation, and a 4.8-star rating from 1,787 owners is hard to argue with. It handles everything from weekend horse shows to weekly livestock transport without complaint.
For Ram 2500/3500 owners wanting the best, the B&W Turnoverball GNRK1320 is worth the premium. The bolt-on installation, Made in America construction, and lifetime warranty justify the higher price if you tow frequently. Budget-conscious buyers will find the CURT 16055 an excellent adapter option for trucks with existing 5th wheel rails.
Whatever you choose, make sure the hitch capacity matches your heaviest tow load with a 20 percent safety margin. A quality gooseneck hitch is a one-time investment that will serve you for decades, so do not cut corners on the component that connects your truck to your livelihood. Browse the options above and pick the one that fits your specific truck configuration and towing needs.