School me on 5th wheel hitches please

Durb wrote:
If the 5er you are considering is relatively new it will most likely have a rounded nose cap which could open up your options with a short bed truck. If your intended trailer is older and has a square front then you will most likely need a sliding hitch which most manufacturers have in their line. The swiveling feature you mentioned might be a Reese Sidewinder which moves the pivot point from your hitch to the kingpin.

If you want to get versed on the majority of opinions that you will see on this forum, search the websites of the following.
- Pullrite Superglide (auto slider)
- B&W hitches
- Andersen Ultimate hitch
- Reese Sidewinder
- Goosebox ( if this is the adapter the salesman was talking about then it isn't a bad option given the right trailer frame)

(IMO) - *Mostly* Good advice.

However:
1. Don't rely on *ANY* salesperson's advice or depth of knowledge! Research everything thoroughly and do your homework!

2. Note - "......it isn't a bad option given the right trailer frame".
Back to number one (above). Before choosing to use (whatever) type of
Gooseneck hitch and/or adapter.....Call the trailer manufacturer's tech line and ask if their frame is suitable (strong enough) to use with that type of hitch.

3. Most 5th wheel owners will only buy *one* hitch during the time of their ownership - unless they go from a long bed to a short bed, etc.
Consequently (if they did *their* homework) - the hitch they have is the best (and maybe it is).

Bottom line - don't rely on an internet forum - unless you asked for negative reports on hitches (ie; "I had a brand X, and would never buy one again - and here's why!").

Good luck with your research!

:C