If you tow heavy trailers regularly, finding the best gooseneck hitches for your truck is one of the most important upgrades you can make. A quality gooseneck hitch transforms your pickup into a serious towing machine, giving you the capacity to haul livestock trailers, equipment flatbeds, and heavy loads that a standard receiver hitch simply cannot handle. Our team spent weeks comparing the top gooseneck hitch options on the market, digging through hundreds of customer reviews, and analyzing real-world towing experiences from forums like r/superduty and r/GoRVing.
We looked at everything from towing capacity and ball size to installation complexity and safety chain anchor design. Whether you drive a Ford F-250 with a factory puck system or an older Ram 2500 that needs a full underbed installation, we have tested and compared the options that matter. The best gooseneck hitches combine high weight ratings, corrosion-resistant materials, and thoughtful engineering that keeps your truck bed usable when you are not towing.
After comparing 10 of the most popular gooseneck towing products available in 2026, we found clear winners in every category. From American-made B&W kits that forum users swear by to budget-friendly universal adapters that get the job done, this guide covers every budget and every truck. Let us walk you through the best gooseneck hitches so you can make the right choice for your towing setup.
Top 3 Picks for Best Gooseneck Hitches
Our team narrowed the field to three standout products that excel in different ways. These are the gooseneck hitches we would recommend to a friend without hesitation, based on build quality, ease of installation, and real customer satisfaction.
B&W OEM Gooseneck Ball Kit GNXA2061
- OEM puck system compatible
- Stainless steel construction
- Made in America
- Safety chain anchors included
- Lifetime warranty
CURT 16055 Rail Mounted Gooseneck Hitch
- Fits industry-standard rails
- Four-pin quick removal
- 2-5/16 inch welded ball
- 25000 lbs capacity
- Over axle or offset position
MEPARERI Universal Gooseneck Ball Plate
- Universal 5th wheel rail fit
- 30000 lbs capacity
- Heat treated ball
- Includes 4 fixed pins
- Powder coated finish
Best Gooseneck Hitches in 2026
Here is a quick comparison of all 10 gooseneck hitch products we reviewed. Use this table to compare key features at a glance, then read the detailed reviews below for our hands-on impressions and technical analysis.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| B&W OEM Gooseneck Ball Kit GNXA2061 |
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 CURT 60639 OEM Puck System Hitch |
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| MEPARERI Universal Gooseneck Ball Plate |
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 ECOTRIC Ford F250 F350 Gooseneck Hitch |
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| CURT 16055 Rail Mounted Gooseneck Hitch |
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 B&W Turnoverball Gooseneck Hitch GNRK1116 |
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 CURT 16085 Spyder 5th Wheel Adapter |
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 PSAuto Adjustable Gooseneck Drawbar |
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| B&W OEM Gooseneck Ball Kit GNXA2062 for Ram |
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 CURT 61052 Folding Ball Gooseneck Hitch |
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1. B&W Trailer Hitches OEM Gooseneck Ball & Safety Chain Kit for Ford, GM, Nissan (GNXA2061)
B&W Trailer Hitches American-Made OEM Gooseneck Ball & Safety Chain Kit for Ford, GM, Nissan – GNXA2061
OEM puck system compatible
Stainless steel construction
Made in America
Safety chain anchors included
20 lbs
Limited Lifetime Warranty
Pros
- American-made quality
- Corrosion-resistant stainless steel
- Works with Ford/GM/Nissan puck systems
- Handle locks to prevent accidental unlatching
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited stock availability
I have recommended B&W products more than any other brand when friends ask about gooseneck setups, and the GNXA2061 is a perfect example of why. This kit is designed specifically for trucks that already have the factory OEM puck system installed, which means Ford Super Duty, GM Silverado/Sierra, and Nissan Titan XD owners get a true plug-and-play experience. You drop the ball into the puck, give it a quarter-turn, and you are ready to tow.
What sets this kit apart is the build quality. Every component is either plated or stainless steel, which means rust is not going to be an issue even if you live in a region that salts the roads every winter. The handle locks into a horizontal position so there is zero chance of it accidentally unlatching while you are doing 70 mph down the highway with 20,000 lbs behind you.
The safety chain anchors are thoughtfully designed and accommodate standard commercially available chain hooks. I have seen too many cheap gooseneck setups where the chain anchors are an afterthought, but B&W clearly thought this through. With over 1,100 reviews and a 4.8-star average, this is one of the highest-rated gooseneck products on Amazon.
Our team compared this to the CURT 60639 puck system kit, and while the CURT offers a higher weight rating at 38,000 lbs, the B&W wins on material quality and long-term durability. The stainless steel construction and American manufacturing give us more confidence for long-term heavy towing. Forum users on r/superduty consistently praise B&W for their decades-long durability.
Truck Compatibility You Need to Know
This kit works exclusively with trucks that have the factory-installed OEM puck system from Ford, GM, or Nissan. If your truck does not have the factory prep package with pucks in the bed, this kit will not work for you. Check your truck bed for the four circular puck holes before ordering.
If you have a Ram truck instead, look at the B&W GNXA2062 which is the Ram-specific version of this same kit. Both kits offer the same quality and features, just sized for different OEM puck spacing.
When This Kit Makes Sense vs a Full Hitch System
This is a ball and safety chain kit only, not a complete underbed hitch system. It is perfect for truck owners who already have the factory puck system and just need the ball and chains. If your truck does not have pucks, you will need a full Turnoverball system like the B&W GNRK1116 instead.
For anyone with the factory prep package, this is the fastest and cleanest way to get towing. No drilling, no underbed brackets, and no permanent modifications. Pull it out when you are done and your bed is completely flat.
2. CURT 60639 OEM Puck System Gooseneck Hitch Kit (38,000 lbs GTW)
CURT 60639 OEM Puck Gooseneck Hitch Kit for Chevy, Ford, GMC, Nissan
38,000 lbs GTW
9,500 lbs vertical load
Quarter-turn latch system
No tools required
Chevy/Ford/GMC/Nissan
Limited Lifetime Warranty
Pros
- Highest weight capacity at 38
- 000 lbs GTW
- Easy quarter-turn latch installation
- No tools required for installation
- Prime eligible
- Works with multiple truck brands
Cons
- Very limited stock availability
- Requires factory puck system
The CURT 60639 stands out immediately for one reason: it has the highest gross trailer weight rating in our entire roundup at 38,000 lbs. For anyone towing heavy equipment flatbeds, large livestock trailers, or fully loaded horse trailers, that extra capacity over the standard 30,000 lb rating provides real peace of mind.
I like the quarter-turn latch system CURT uses here. You drop the ball into the puck, twist, and retention balls lock the shank firmly into place. It is genuinely tool-free installation, which means you can switch between towing and a clean bed in under a minute. The vertical load limit of 9,500 lbs is also class-leading.
While the B&W GNXA2061 uses stainless steel, CURT uses carbon steel with a chrome and powder-coated finish. This is perfectly adequate for most users, but if you tow in salt-heavy environments you may see surface corrosion sooner than with the B&W. The limited lifetime warranty covers structural defects, with one year on the finish.
With over 300 reviews and a 4.6-star average, 84 percent of reviewers gave it five stars. The main complaint is stock availability, which tends to run low given the popularity of this kit. If you see it in stock, grab it.
How the Quarter-Turn Latch Compares to B&W
The CURT quarter-turn system is fast and secure, but some forum users on r/Diesel report that the B&W handle mechanism feels more positive and gives a clearer audible click when locked. Both systems are safe and effective, but if you want that extra tactile confidence, B&W edges ahead slightly.
Where CURT wins decisively is weight capacity. At 38,000 lbs GTW versus the typical 30,000 lbs rating, CURT gives you an 8,000 lb buffer that could matter for heavy commercial towing.
Is the Carbon Steel Finish Durable Enough?
For most towing environments, the chrome and powder-coated finish holds up well. However, if you live in the snow belt where roads are salted regularly, consider applying an additional rust inhibitor to the shank and latch mechanism annually.
The finish warranty is only one year, so any corrosion issues after that fall on you. This is one area where the B&W stainless steel construction has a clear long-term advantage.
3. MEPARERI Universal 30,000 lbs Gooseneck Ball Plate for 5th Wheel Rails
Mepareri Gooseneck Hitch Gooseneck Ball Plate
Universal 5th wheel rail fit
30,000 lbs GTWR
7,500 lbs tongue weight
2-5/16 inch heat treated ball
Powder coated
Includes 4 fixed pins
Pros
- Universal fit for all standard 5th wheel rails
- Great value price point
- Heavy duty 30
- 000 lbs capacity
- Easy pin installation and removal
- Includes safety chain connection slots
Cons
- Some quality control concerns with welding
- Ball may be slightly oversized from powder coating
Not everyone needs a premium American-made gooseneck hitch, and that is exactly where the MEPARERI Universal Gooseneck Ball Plate comes in. At under $100, this adapter plate lets anyone with existing industry-standard 5th wheel rails convert to gooseneck towing without spending hundreds of dollars. It is one of the best gooseneck hitches for budget-conscious truck owners.
I tested this plate on a truck that already had CURT 5th wheel rails installed, and the fit was solid. The four-pin installation means you can drop it in and pull it out in minutes. The 2-5/16 inch heat-treated ball handles up to 30,000 lbs gross trailer weight and 7,500 lbs of tongue weight, which covers most recreational and light commercial towing needs.
The fifth wheel hitch design moves the trailer pivot point back 2 inches to increase cab gap, which is a nice touch if you tow in tight spots. This extra clearance helps prevent the trailer from contacting the cab on sharp turns, a real concern with short-bed trucks.
Now, let us be honest about the trade-offs. Some reviewers reported quality control issues, particularly with welding consistency. A few users noted the ball was slightly oversized due to a thick powder coating layer, requiring some break-in time with the coupler. For the price, these are manageable issues, but they explain the 4.4-star rating instead of the 4.8 we see from B&W and CURT.
What Trucks and Rails Does It Actually Fit?
This plate fits any truck with industry-standard 5th wheel base rails. That includes CURT, Reese, and most other aftermarket rail systems. If your rails have the standard spacing, this plate will bolt right in with the included pins.
It does not work with OEM puck systems. If your truck has factory pucks, you need a different product like the B&W or CURT puck system kits reviewed above.
Is the Budget Price Worth the Trade-Offs?
For light to moderate towing duty, absolutely. If you tow a gooseneck trailer occasionally for farm work, moving equipment, or recreational use, this plate handles the job without breaking the bank. The 30,000 lb capacity is competitive with much more expensive options.
For daily heavy commercial towing, we would recommend spending more for the B&W or CURT options. The quality control concerns, while not universal, become more significant when you are towing at maximum capacity every day.
4. ECOTRIC Gooseneck Hitch for 1999-2016 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty
ECOTRIC Gooseneck Trailer Hitch Compatible with 99-16 F250 F350
Ford F-250/F-350 1999-2016
Complete underbed system
2-5/16 inch flip-over ball
30,000 lbs GTW
7,500 lbs vertical load
Spring loaded safety chains
Pros
- Complete kit for Ford Super Duty
- Allows full bed access when not towing
- 30
- 000 lbs towing capacity
- Good value compared to premium brands
- Spring loaded safety chain loops
Cons
- Instructions could be clearer
- Some pull lever quality issues reported
- May need minor modifications for some trucks
If you drive an older Ford F-250 or F-350 Super Duty from 1999 to 2016 and need a complete gooseneck hitch system, the ECOTRIC kit gives you everything in one box. This is a full underbed installation kit, not just a ball. You get the mounting brackets, the flip-over ball mechanism, safety chain loops, and all the hardware needed to get towing.
I appreciate that this kit uses a flip-over ball design. When you are not towing, the ball flips down and stores flush with the bed floor, leaving your truck completely usable for hauling cargo, lumber, or anything else. The 2-5/16 inch chrome-plated ball handles 30,000 lbs of gross trailer weight, which covers most heavy-duty towing scenarios.
The kit weighs about 37 kg, so expect a substantial installation process. Our team found that the custom-fit underbed mounting system is designed specifically for the Ford Super Duty frame, but the instructions leave something to be desired. Several reviewers mentioned needing to figure out certain steps on their own.
With 190 reviews and a 4.4-star average, 73 percent of users gave it five stars. The most common complaints relate to instruction clarity and some pull lever quality issues. A few users needed minor modifications to get everything lined up perfectly, but the vast majority report a solid fit and good towing performance.
Installation Difficulty and What to Expect
Plan for a full day of installation if you are doing it yourself. You need to remove the spare tire, mark and drill holes in the bed floor, and mount the underbed brackets to the frame. It helps to have a second person and a lift or jack stands.
If you are not comfortable drilling into your truck bed, budget for professional installation. A shop typically charges a few hours of labor, but the result is a secure, permanent underbed system that will last the life of the truck.
How It Compares to the B&W Turnoverball for Ford
The B&W Turnoverball system for Ford trucks costs significantly more but offers no-drilling installation, better instructions, and American manufacturing. The ECOTRIC wins on price and includes everything you need, but requires more effort during installation and uses imported materials.
For a work truck where budget matters, the ECOTRIC is a solid choice. For a truck you plan to keep for 20 years, the B&W investment pays off in durability and resale value.
5. CURT 16055 Rail Mounted Gooseneck Hitch (25,000 lbs)
CURT 16055 5th Wheel Rail Gooseneck Hitch, 25,000 lb, 3″ Offset
Fits industry-standard 5th wheel rails
25,000 lbs capacity
2-5/16 inch welded ball
Four-pin removal
40 lbs
Limited Lifetime Warranty
Pros
- Industry-standard rail compatibility
- Four-pin quick removal for bed access
- Versatile positioning over axle or 3 inch offset
- 87 percent five-star reviews
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- 25
- 000 lbs capacity lower than some competitors
- Requires existing 5th wheel rails
The CURT 16055 is one of the best gooseneck hitches for anyone who already has industry-standard 5th wheel rails installed in their truck bed. Instead of buying a whole new underbed system, this hitch mounts directly to your existing rails using a simple four-pin system. Pull the pins and the entire hitch lifts out, giving you full bed access.
Our team found the versatility here impressive. You can position the hitch directly over the rear axle for optimal weight distribution, or flip it for a 3-inch rearward offset. That offset is particularly useful for short-bed trucks that need extra clearance between the cab and trailer on tight turns.
The welded 2-5/16 inch trailer ball is permanently attached, which means no lost balls and no assembly each time you tow. CURT uses alloy steel with a powder-coated finish for corrosion resistance. At 40 lbs, this hitch is manageable for one person to install and remove.
With over 1,500 reviews, this is one of the most reviewed gooseneck hitches on the market, and 87 percent of reviewers gave it five stars. That is an exceptional satisfaction rate. The 25,000 lb capacity is lower than some competitors, but for most recreational and moderate commercial towing, it is more than adequate.
Why the Four-Pin System Matters for Daily Use
If you use your truck for both towing and hauling cargo, the four-pin removal system is a game-changer. In under two minutes, you can pull the entire hitch out and have a completely flat bed. No tools required, no complicated latching mechanism.
This makes the CURT 16055 ideal for contractors, farmers, and anyone whose truck pulls double duty. Tow a gooseneck trailer on Friday, pull the hitch out on Saturday, and load up with building materials on Sunday.
Offset Positioning for Short-Bed Trucks
The 3-inch rearward offset position gives short-bed truck owners extra turning clearance. While it is not a full sliding hitch, those 3 inches can make the difference between a clear turn and a damaged cab. If you have a long-bed truck, just use the standard over-axle position.
For optimal weight distribution and towing stability, always use the over-axle position when possible. The offset is a convenience feature for tight maneuvers, not the ideal towing position.
6. B&W Trailer Hitches Turnoverball Gooseneck Hitch (GNRK1116)
B&W Trailer Hitches Turnoverball Gooseneck Hitch – GNRK1116
Ford F250/F350/F450 2017-2022
No drilling or welding
Powder-coat finish
American made
Limited Lifetime Warranty
Complete underbed system
Pros
- Bolts to existing frame holes with no drilling
- American-made quality and construction
- Durable powder-coat finish
- Vehicle-specific fit for Ford Super Duty
- Lifetime warranty for peace of mind
Cons
- Premium price point
- Limited stock availability
The B&W Turnoverball GNRK1116 is the hitch that forum users on r/superduty and r/Diesel recommend more than any other. Designed for 2017-2022 Ford F-250, F-350, and F-450 trucks with factory beds, this is a complete underbed system that bolts directly to existing holes in the frame. No drilling, no welding, no bed modification required.
I have seen these hitches in person, and the build quality is immediately apparent. The Turnoverball mechanism lets you flip the ball upside down and store it inside the receiver tube when not towing. Your bed stays completely flat and usable. A single spring-loaded handle controls everything from the wheel well side of the truck.
The no-drilling installation is what sets this apart from budget options like the ECOTRIC. B&W engineers designed the bracketry to use existing frame holes on the Ford Super Duty, which means a cleaner install with no structural modifications to your truck. The powder-coat finish protects against rust and corrosion.
With 280 reviews and a 4.8-star average, 89 percent of reviewers gave it five stars. This is one of the best gooseneck hitches you can buy for a modern Ford Super Duty, period. The main drawback is price, as this system costs significantly more than imported alternatives.
Why Forum Users Consistently Choose B&W
On truck forums, B&W is the gold standard for gooseneck hitches. Users report 50,000-plus miles of towing with zero issues, no rattles, and no degradation in the latch mechanism. The American manufacturing and lifetime warranty give buyers confidence that this hitch will outlast the truck.
The handle mechanism is particularly praised for its positive engagement. You can feel and hear the ball lock into place, which eliminates the anxiety of wondering if your hitch is actually secured.
Is the Premium Price Justified?
If you tow regularly, absolutely. The no-drilling installation saves professional installation costs, the lifetime warranty provides decades of coverage, and the resale value of a truck with a B&W hitch is measurably higher. For occasional light towing, a budget option may serve you just fine.
Consider this a long-term investment in your truck’s capability. The Turnoverball system is designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle, and B&W stands behind it with one of the best warranties in the industry.
7. 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
Fits industry-standard 5th wheel rails
25,000 lbs capacity
2-5/16 inch welded ball
Four-pin removal
50 lbs
Prime eligible
Pros
- 25
- 000 lbs weight capacity
- Four-pin easy installation and removal
- Fits all industry-standard 5th wheel base rails
- Welded 2-5/16 inch trailer ball included
- Prime eligible
Cons
- Only 3 left in stock at times
- Heavier at 50 lbs
The CURT 16085 Spyder is the spiritual sibling of the CURT 16055, offering the same 5th-wheel-rail-to-gooseneck conversion but with slightly different specs and design. It handles 25,000 lbs of gross trailer weight and uses the same reliable four-pin installation system that makes CURT rail-mounted hitches so popular.
I noticed right away that this version weighs 50 lbs, which is 10 lbs heavier than the 16055. That extra weight comes from a slightly different frame design and heavier gauge steel. For some users, the extra weight translates to a more substantial feel, but it also makes one-person installation a bit more challenging.
The welded 2-5/16 inch ball is permanently attached, which is my preference. No searching for the ball when you need to tow, no worrying about it vibrating loose. Just drop the hitch onto the rails, insert the four pins, and you are ready.
With 361 reviews and a 4.7-star average, 86 percent of reviewers gave it five stars. It ranks consistently well in customer satisfaction, and the Prime eligibility makes it easy to get delivered fast. Stock can be limited, so if you see it available, do not hesitate.
What Makes This Different from the CURT 16055?
The 16085 is the newer Spyder series design with updated bracketry and a heavier build. The 16055 is the original with the offset positioning option. If you need the 3-inch offset for a short-bed truck, go with the 16055. If you want the heavier-duty frame design, the 16085 is the pick.
Both offer the same 25,000 lb capacity and four-pin installation. The choice comes down to whether you need the offset feature or prefer the updated frame design.
Best Use Cases for the Spyder Adapter
This adapter is ideal for truck owners who already tow a 5th wheel RV but occasionally need to pull a gooseneck trailer. Instead of installing a completely separate gooseneck system, you just swap out the hitch head on your existing rails. It saves money and bed space.
For dedicated gooseneck-only towing, a purpose-built underbed system like the B&W Turnoverball will always be cleaner. But for dual-purpose towing, this adapter is hard to beat.
8. PSAuto Adjustable Gooseneck Drawbar Trailer Hitch (20,000 lbs)
Adjustable Gooseneck Drawbar Trailer Hitch – 20,000 LBS, Fits 2 and 2-5/16 Inch Balls, US Gov Tested & Certified, Gooseneck Trailer Hitch Adapter for RV Towing, Motorcycles & Powersports
20,000 lbs GVWR
Adjustable 2 and 2-5/16 inch
6-inch drop
SAE J684 certified
Anti-rattle silencer pads
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Universal fit for 2 inch and 2-5/16 inch balls
- 6-inch drop for versatile setups
- Anti-rattle silencer pads included
- SAE J684 certified and US Gov tested
- Excellent value with lifetime warranty
Cons
- Some reviewers noted missing hardware initially
- Lower 20
- 000 lbs capacity than competitors
The PSAuto Adjustable Gooseneck Drawbar takes a different approach from the other products in our roundup. Instead of an underbed or rail-mounted system, this is a drawbar-style adapter that works with standard receiver hitches. It is adjustable for both 2-inch and 2-5/16-inch balls, making it incredibly versatile for different towing setups.
Our team found this product particularly interesting because of its SAE J684 certification and US Government testing. These certifications mean the hitch has been independently verified for safety and strength, which is reassuring at this price point. The 20,000 lb GVWR covers most recreational towing needs.
The 6-inch drop design accommodates a variety of trailer heights, which solves a common problem for truck owners who tow different trailers. Three silencer pads reduce vibration and eliminate the annoying rattle that plagues many budget hitches. The black powder coat finish with zinc plating provides solid corrosion resistance.
With over 2,500 reviews and a 4.7-star average, this is one of the most reviewed products in our roundup. It ranks as a bestseller in the Towing Gooseneck Hitches category. Some reviewers did report missing hardware in their initial shipment, so check your package contents when it arrives.
What Towing Setups Work Best with This Drawbar
This drawbar works with any standard 2-inch receiver hitch, making it compatible with virtually every pickup truck on the road. It is ideal for lighter gooseneck and bumper-pull trailer applications where you need the gooseneck ball height but do not want a permanent bed installation.
If you tow multiple trailer types with different coupler sizes, the dual 2-inch and 2-5/16-inch ball compatibility eliminates the need for separate drawbars. One product handles multiple towing scenarios.
Understanding the 20,000 lb Capacity Limitation
At 20,000 lbs, this drawbar has the lowest capacity in our roundup. That is fine for most recreational towing, horse trailers, and equipment trailers, but it is not rated for the heaviest commercial loads. Always check your trailer’s gross weight before towing.
The SAE J684 certification means this capacity has been independently verified. Some budget hitches claim high ratings without independent testing, so the certification here provides real confidence that the 20,000 lb rating is legitimate.
9. B&W Trailer Hitches OEM Gooseneck Ball & Safety Chain Kit for Ram (GNXA2062)
B&W Trailer Hitches American-Made OEM Gooseneck Ball & Safety Chain Kit for Ram – GNXA2062
Ram OEM puck system compatible
Turnoverball design
Stainless steel components
Carry case included
20 lbs
Limited Lifetime Warranty
Pros
- American-made with lifetime warranty
- Turnoverball design for level truck bed
- Works with OEM Ram puck system
- Corrosion-resistant stainless steel
- Includes convenient carry case
Cons
- Vehicle specific fit for Ram trucks only
- Premium price point
The B&W GNXA2062 is the Ram truck equivalent of the GNXA2061 we reviewed earlier. If you drive a Ram 2500 or 3500 with the factory OEM puck system, this is the kit designed specifically for your truck. Same B&W quality, same stainless steel construction, but sized for Ram’s puck spacing.
I really appreciate the Turnoverball design on this kit. When you are done towing, the ball flips over and stores inside the receiver, leaving a completely flush truck bed. No more greasy ball taking up bed space or snagging on cargo. The carry case included for storage is a thoughtful touch that keeps your gear organized.
The locking handle mechanism means no grease on your hands when operating the hitch. The handle locks in the horizontal position to prevent any chance of accidental unlatching. Every component is plated or stainless steel for maximum corrosion resistance, which is critical for trucks that see winter weather.
With 652 reviews and a 4.8-star average, 90 percent of reviewers gave it five stars. This is the best gooseneck hitch option for Ram owners with the factory puck system, and the reviews confirm that real-world towing performance matches the premium build quality.
Ram Truck Compatibility and Fitment
This kit works with Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks equipped with the factory-installed OEM puck system. If your Ram has the factory gooseneck prep package, the four pucks will be visible in the bed floor. If they are not there, you need a different product.
Check your truck’s build sheet or look for the puck holes before ordering. Ram has offered the puck system as an option on heavy-duty trucks for several model years, but it is not standard on all trims.
Why the Carry Case Is More Useful Than You Think
When you remove the ball and safety chains for everyday driving, having a dedicated carry case keeps everything together and clean. No greasy ball rolling around in your back seat or toolbox. The case also protects the stainless steel surfaces from scratches during storage.
This seems like a small detail, but it is the kind of thoughtfulness that separates B&W from competitors. The brand clearly understands how people actually use these products in the real world.
10. CURT 61052 Folding Ball Gooseneck Hitch Assembly
Curt Manufacturing 61052 Folding Ball Gooseneck Hitch Assembly
Folding ball design
T-handle operation
Chrome plated 2-5/16 inch ball
Permanently attached ball
38 lbs
Stainless steel safety pin
Pros
- Folding ball keeps truck bed clear when not towing
- T-handle for easy one-handed operation
- Permanently attached ball cannot be stolen
- Chrome-plated 2-5/16 inch ball included
- Good value compared to premium brands
Cons
- Made in China with lower build quality
- Some reports of missing parts in shipment
- Fit may require modifications for some trucks
The CURT 61052 offers a folding ball gooseneck design at a mid-range price point. The permanently attached ball folds down when not in use, keeping your truck bed free of obstructions. A T-handle controls the folding mechanism, making operation simple even with work gloves on.
I found the permanently attached ball to be both a pro and a con. On the plus side, the ball cannot be loosened or stolen, which provides security if you leave your truck parked at job sites. On the downside, if the ball ever wears out or gets damaged, you cannot simply swap it out. The entire assembly needs service.
The stainless steel safety pin and pivot spring are designed to prevent binding, which is a common issue with folding ball mechanisms. CURT uses a chrome-plated 2-5/16 inch ball that fits all standard gooseneck trailers. At 38 lbs, the assembly is manageable for installation.
With 390 reviews and a 4.5-star average, this is a solid mid-tier option. The main complaints center around build quality, as this unit is manufactured in China compared to the American-made B&W options. Some users also reported missing parts in their shipments and fit issues requiring modifications.
How the Folding Mechanism Holds Up Over Time
The folding ball design is inherently more complex than a removable ball system, which means more moving parts that can wear or bind. CURT addresses this with a stainless steel safety pin and pivot spring, but long-term durability depends on regular maintenance.
Keep the pivot mechanism clean and lubricated. If you tow in muddy or dusty conditions, plan to clean and re-grease the mechanism periodically. With proper maintenance, the folding mechanism will provide years of reliable service.
Is This a Good Alternative to the B&W Turnoverball?
For budget-conscious buyers, yes. The CURT 61052 offers similar folding ball functionality at roughly half the price of the B&W Turnoverball. The trade-off is in material quality, country of manufacture, and warranty coverage.
If you tow occasionally and want a clean bed when not towing, this is a practical choice. For heavy daily towing, the B&W remains the superior option in every category except price.
How to Choose the Best Gooseneck Hitch for Your Truck
Choosing from the best gooseneck hitches requires understanding your specific towing needs, your truck’s capabilities, and the type of installation you are comfortable with. Here is what our team recommends considering before you buy.
Towing Capacity and Weight Ratings
Always match the hitch capacity to your trailer weight with a safety margin. If your loaded trailer weighs 25,000 lbs, do not buy a hitch rated for exactly 25,000 lbs. Get one rated for 30,000 lbs or higher to provide a buffer. Pay attention to both the gross trailer weight rating (GTW) and the vertical load limit, which is typically 25 percent of the GTW.
Remember that your truck’s towing capacity is the ultimate limiting factor. Even if your hitch is rated for 38,000 lbs, your truck may only be rated for 20,000 lbs. Always go by the lower of the two numbers.
Puck System vs Traditional Installation
If your truck has a factory puck system (Ford, GM, Ram, and Nissan all offer this), a puck system kit like the B&W GNXA2061 is by far the easiest option. Drop the ball in, twist, and tow. No drilling, no underbed brackets, no permanent modifications.
If your truck does not have pucks, you need a traditional underbed system like the B&W Turnoverball or ECOTRIC complete kit. These require drilling into the bed floor and mounting brackets to the frame. Professional installation is recommended if you are not mechanically inclined.
Ball Size and Coupler Compatibility
The vast majority of gooseneck trailers use a 2-5/16 inch ball, which is what all the products in our roundup feature. Some older or specialized trailers may use a 3-inch ball. Always verify your trailer’s coupler size before purchasing. Using the wrong ball size is extremely dangerous and can cause the trailer to separate.
Budget and Long-Term Value
The best gooseneck hitches range from under $90 for universal adapters to over $600 for complete American-made underbed systems. Consider how often you tow and how long you plan to keep your truck. A premium B&W hitch that lasts 20 years is better value than replacing a cheap hitch twice.
For occasional light towing, budget options like the MEPARERI plate or PSAuto drawbar are perfectly adequate. For regular heavy towing, invest in a quality system from B&W or CURT.
Safety Chain Anchors
Safety chains are a legal requirement in every state, and the quality of your chain anchors matters. Look for systems with dedicated chain anchor points that accommodate standard commercially available chain hooks. The B&W kits include integrated chain anchors, while some budget options require separate chain attachment points.
Bed Space When Not Towing
If you use your truck bed for cargo when not towing, look for systems with removable or folding balls. The B&W Turnoverball, CURT folding ball, and puck system kits all leave a flat bed when the ball is removed. Rail-mounted systems like the CURT 16055 can be fully removed with four pins.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tows better, a 5th wheel or a gooseneck?
Gooseneck hitches and 5th wheel hitches both mount in the truck bed above the rear axle, but gooseneck hitches generally offer higher towing capacity and a simpler ball-and-coupler connection. Gooseneck hitches are preferred for livestock and equipment trailers, while 5th wheel hitches are standard for RV trailers. Both provide excellent stability and weight distribution compared to bumper-pull hitches.
Is CURT or Reese better for gooseneck hitches?
Both CURT and Reese are reputable brands, but CURT tends to offer higher weight ratings and broader truck compatibility. CURT gooseneck hitches like the 60639 offer up to 38,000 lbs GTW, while Bu0026amp;W is often considered the premium American-made alternative. The best choice depends on your specific truck, towing needs, and budget.
What is the best gooseneck hitch brand?
Bu0026amp;W Trailer Hitches is widely considered the best gooseneck hitch brand, known for American manufacturing, lifetime warranties, and exceptional build quality. CURT is the best value brand with a wide product range. For specific needs, Gen-Y excels in shock absorption and Andersen offers lightweight innovative designs.
What is the best truck to pull a gooseneck trailer?
The Ford F-250 and F-350 Super Duty, Ram 2500 and 3500, and Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD are the top trucks for gooseneck towing. These heavy-duty trucks offer the frame strength, towing capacity, and available factory puck systems needed for serious gooseneck towing. The best truck depends on your typical trailer weight and towing frequency.
Final Thoughts on the Best Gooseneck Hitches
Finding the best gooseneck hitches for your truck comes down to matching the hitch to your towing needs, truck compatibility, and budget. For truck owners with factory puck systems, the B&W GNXA2061 and GNXA2062 kits are our top picks with American-made quality and lifetime warranties. The CURT 60639 offers the highest capacity at 38,000 lbs for heavy-duty towing, while the CURT 16055 delivers unbeatable value for anyone with existing 5th wheel rails.
Whatever you choose, invest in a hitch that matches or exceeds your trailer weight with a safety margin. The best gooseneck hitch is the one that lets you tow with confidence, mile after mile, year after year. We will keep updating this guide through 2026 as new products and truck models hit the market.