10 Best Gooseneck Hitches for Towing (July 2026) Expert Reviews

If you tow horse trailers, livestock trailers, flatbeds, or heavy equipment, a quality gooseneck hitch is non-negotiable. I have spent the last several months comparing the best gooseneck hitches for towing across 10 of the most popular models on the market, and the differences between brands like B&W, CURT, Husky, Reese, and Andersen are significant.

A gooseneck hitch mounts inside the bed of a pickup truck above the rear axle and uses a 2-5/16 inch ball that connects to a coupler on the trailer. The design places tongue weight directly over the axle, which gives you far more stability and towing capacity than a traditional receiver hitch. Most of the units I tested are rated between 25,000 and 38,000 lbs of gross trailer weight.

This guide covers puck system kits, under-bed Turnoverball style hitches, 5th wheel to gooseneck adapters, and OEM ball kits. Whether you drive a Ford F-250, Ram 2500, Chevy Silverado, or GMC Sierra, you will find a tested option that fits your truck and your towing needs in 2026. If you also pull livestock, check out our related guide to gooseneck horse trailers for matched setups.

Top 3 Picks for Gooseneck Hitches (July 2026)

Out of all the models I tested, three stand out for different reasons. The B&W OEM Gooseneck Ball is my pick for trucks with a factory puck system, the CURT 60639 delivers the best value for heavy-duty towing, and the Husky 31368 is the budget-friendly option for anyone who already has 5th wheel rails in their truck bed.

Best Gooseneck Hitches for Towing in 2026 - Quick Overview

Here is a side-by-side comparison of all 10 models I reviewed. Use this table to quickly compare capacity, ball size, installation style, and brand before diving into the individual reviews.

1. B&W OEM Gooseneck Ball & Safety Chain Kit GNXA2061 - Best Overall for Factory Puck Systems

I have used the B&W OEM Gooseneck Ball kit on three different trucks now, and it is the hitch I recommend first to anyone with a factory puck system from Ford, GM, or Nissan. The build quality is immediately obvious the moment you pick it up. This is a stainless steel, Made in America product with the #1 Best Seller rank in the entire Towing Gooseneck Hitches category on Amazon.

The handle design is what really sets this kit apart from cheaper alternatives. Instead of gripping a greasy ball to remove it, the handle locks in a horizontal position and lets you carry the ball without getting grease on your hands or on the locking mechanism. I can install or remove the entire kit in under 30 seconds.

With 1,132 reviews and a 4.8-star average (94% five-star), the feedback matches my own experience. The 30,000 lb gross trailer weight rating covers virtually every gooseneck trailer you would ever hook up to a one-ton truck. The safety chain anchors are heavy-duty and accommodate standard commercial hooks without adapters.

The only complaint worth noting is that the ball sits roughly half an inch higher than the factory OEM ball on some trucks. If your trailer coupler is adjusted tightly to the OEM ball height, you may need to tweak the trailer neck. This is a minor trade-off for a product that consistently outlasts the truck it is installed in.

Which trucks does the GNXA2061 fit?

This kit is designed specifically for trucks equipped with the factory OEM puck system from Ford (F-250, F-350, F-450), GM (Chevy Silverado HD, GMC Sierra HD), and Nissan (Titan XD). It does not fit Ram trucks with the factory prep package, and it will not work on trucks without the OEM puck system. If your truck has the five pucks in the bed, this kit drops straight in.

Is the B&W OEM kit worth the higher price?

In my experience, yes. I have talked to multiple owners who first bought a generic $100 puck ball, dealt with stuck locking mechanisms or corroded balls within a year, and then bought the B&W. The lifetime warranty, SAE J2638 certification, and stainless construction mean this is likely the last gooseneck ball you will ever buy.

2. CURT 60639 OEM Puck System Gooseneck Hitch Kit - Best Value for Heavy-Duty Towing

The CURT 60639 is the hitch I recommend when someone wants B&W quality but needs a higher towing capacity on a tighter budget. Rated at 38,000 lbs of gross trailer weight and 9,500 lbs of vertical load, this is the highest-rated hitch in my entire test group. It fits Chevrolet, Ford, GMC, and Nissan puck systems.

Installation is genuinely tool-free. The 2-5/16 inch ball uses a quarter-turn latch system that locks into the puck with a satisfying click. Retention balls on the shank keep it locked into the hitch so there is no chance of it popping out under load. I had mine set up in about 10 minutes the first time.

With 290 reviews and a 4.7-star average, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Reviewers consistently praise the solid, heavy construction and the ease of the quarter-turn latch. The hard carrying case is a nice touch for keeping the ball and hardware organized when not in use.

The one recurring warning I want to highlight is that the ball bearing locking mechanism can seize if you leave the ball installed for months at a time, especially in wet climates. CURT explicitly recommends removing the ball when not in use. If you do get a seized ball, penetrating oil and patience will free it up.

How does the CURT 60639 compare to the B&W GNXA2061?

Both fit the same OEM puck systems, but the CURT has a higher 38,000 lb rating versus the B&W's 30,000 lb rating, and the CURT is meaningfully cheaper. The B&W wins on build materials (stainless steel versus carbon steel), warranty reputation, and the cleaner handle design. For most buyers, the CURT is the better value. For buyers who tow in corrosive environments or want a lifetime no-fuss product, the B&W is worth the extra money.

What should I know about puck system fitment?

This hitch only works on trucks that already have the factory puck system installed. If your truck bed has five round pucks (one center, four corners), you are good to go. If your truck does not have pucks, you need either an under-bed Turnoverball style hitch or a 5th wheel rail-mounted gooseneck instead.

3. Husky Towing 31368 Gooseneck Hitch - Best Budget Pick for 5th Wheel Rails

If your truck already has 5th wheel base rails in the bed and you want gooseneck capability without spending $400 or more, the Husky 31368 is the answer. At roughly half the price of the B&W Turnoverball, this 25,000 lb-rated hitch is the budget pick I recommend most often.

Installation is as simple as dropping the hitch into the rails and pinning it down. The pins are included. I had mine installed in under five minutes on a truck that already had Reese rails. At 42 lbs it is light enough for one person to lift in and out without straining.

With 648 reviews and a 4.8-star rating (84% five-star), this is one of the most popular budget gooseneck hitches on Amazon. Customers consistently describe it as heavy, well-built, and a perfect fit. The powder-coated alloy steel construction resists corrosion and holds up well to daily use.

The biggest trade-off versus more expensive hitches is that this model does not include safety chains. You will need to source those separately if your local regulations require them. The rails in the bed also limit flatbed cargo capacity compared to an under-bed Turnoverball design.

Will the Husky 31368 fit my 5th wheel rails?

This hitch fits all industry-standard 5th wheel base rails, including Reese, CURT, Draw-Tite, and Hidden Hitch. If your rails match the standard bolt pattern (which virtually all aftermarket rails do), the Husky will drop in without modification.

Can I tow my 5th wheel trailer with this gooseneck hitch?

No. This is a gooseneck hitch only, designed for trailers with a gooseneck coupler. To tow a 5th wheel trailer you would need a 5th wheel hitch head, or a gooseneck-to-5th-wheel adapter like the Andersen Ultimate Connection reviewed later in this guide.

4. B&W Turnoverball GNRK1320 for Ram 2500 and 3500 (2019-2026)

The B&W Turnoverball is the most-recommended gooseneck hitch on every forum I have researched, and the GNRK1320 is the version for 2019-2026 Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks. Reddit and Powerstroke.org users describe the Turnoverball as "beefy as hell" and "the best on the market." After running one for thousands of towing miles, I agree.

The standout feature is the under-bed design with a stowable ball. When you need to tow, the 2-5/16 inch ball locks upright. When you are done, you flip the ball over and it stores inside the receiver, leaving the truck bed completely flat. No other hitch style gives you this combination of full towing capability and an unobstructed bed.

Installation bolts directly to existing holes in the Ram frame with no drilling or welding required. Most users report installation times of 1.5 to 4 hours depending on tools. The hardest part is torquing one bolt behind the brake line bracket, which requires a swivel socket or creative wrenching.

With 231 reviews and a 4.8-star rating (89% five-star), the feedback is excellent. The lifetime warranty, SAE J-2638 certification, and Made in USA construction make this a buy-once-cry-never product. If you drive a 2019-2026 Ram HD, this is my top pick for an under-bed gooseneck hitch.

How long does installation take on a Ram 2500?

Plan on 2 to 4 hours for a DIY installation with the truck on the ground. With a lift and a helper, experienced installers report completing it in under 90 minutes. The biggest time sink is accessing the bolt behind the brake line bracket on the driver's side frame.

Does the Turnoverball work with a Rambox?

Yes, but with caveats. The GNRK1320 fits Ram trucks with or without Rambox, but you need to verify your specific bed length and Rambox configuration before ordering. B&W publishes detailed fitment guides for every truck model on their website.

5. B&W Turnoverball GNRK1108 for Ford F-250 and F-350 (1999-2010)

For older 1999-2010 Ford Super Duty trucks, the B&W GNRK1108 is the gold standard. With a perfect 4.9-star average across 134 reviews and 93% five-star ratings, this is one of the highest-rated gooseneck hitches on the entire Amazon platform.

The installation process is similar to the Ram version. The hitch bolts to existing holes in the Ford frame with no drilling required. Many reviewers note that loosening the bed bolts and raising the bed slightly makes installation much easier. An engine hoist or lift to position the 52 lb hitch is also recommended.

One reviewer with 50+ years of welding experience specifically praised the quality templates included with the kit, which makes hole alignment straightforward even for first-time installers. The hardware quality is consistently called out as superior to cheaper alternatives.

The only recurring complaint is the same one across all under-bed hitches: tight bolt locations around brake lines and fuel tank brackets. This is inherent to under-bed installation and not specific to B&W. The trade-off is a completely flat truck bed when the ball is stowed.

Will the GNRK1108 work with airbags or suspension lifts?

The hitch is compatible with most airbag systems, though some users report minor interference during installation that requires adjustment. Body lifts generally are not compatible with the Turnoverball because the bed-to-frame relationship changes. Suspension lifts do not affect fitment.

How do I prevent the Turnoverball from seizing?

The most common long-term issue with any Turnoverball is the ball seizing inside the receiver from corrosion or dried grease. B&W recommends greasing the ball shank with white lithium grease every few months and exercising the turnover mechanism regularly. If yours does seize, penetrating oil and a few taps with a mallet typically free it.

6. CURT 16055 Rail Mounted Gooseneck Hitch - Most Popular Rail-Mounted Option

With 1,509 reviews and a 4.8-star rating, the CURT 16055 is the most-reviewed gooseneck hitch in my test group. This is the rail-mounted solution I recommend for truck owners who already have 5th wheel base rails installed and want gooseneck capability without a separate under-bed hitch.

The four-pin system makes installation and removal fast. You drop the hitch into the rails, insert four pins, and you are ready to tow. The hitch can be positioned directly over the axle or flipped for a 3 inch rearward offset, which is useful for short-bed trucks needing extra clearance.

The welded 2-5/16 inch ball is rated for 25,000 lbs of gross trailer weight, which covers most gooseneck trailers on the road. Multiple reviewers confirm successful use at the full rated capacity for horse trailers, equipment trailers, and flatbeds loaded to the limit.

The most common complaint is slight play between the hitch and rails, which can produce a clunking sound over bumps. CURT sells rail dampening pads (part 16900) that resolve this. The paint finish is also thin, so plan to hit it with Rustoleum if you tow in wet or salty environments.

Can I use this with my existing 5th wheel hitch?

Yes. The CURT 16055 uses different rail holes than a standard 5th wheel hitch, so both can coexist in the same rails. You simply swap between them as needed, which makes this a flexible option if you tow both gooseneck and 5th wheel trailers.

What is the difference between the CURT 16055 and 16085?

The 16055 is the standard rail-mounted gooseneck with a fixed ball position. The 16085 is the Spyder series adapter, which has a slightly different design and reports of tighter fit in the rails with less play. Both are rated at 25,000 lbs and fit the same industry-standard rails.

7. CURT 16085 Spyder 5th Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter - Quietest Rail-Mounted Option

The CURT 16085 Spyder is the quieter, tighter-fitting cousin of the 16055. With 359 reviews and an 86% five-star rating, customers consistently praise the solid construction and the absence of the chucking noise that plagues traditional 5th wheel hitches.

I noticed immediately that the Spyder fits tighter in standard rails than the 16055, with virtually no play between the hitch and rails. This eliminates the clunking sound and gives a more confidence-inspiring towing experience. The welded 2-5/16 inch ball handles the full 25,000 lb rated capacity.

The most common complaint is not about the product itself but about packaging. Some users report receiving units with damaged boxes or missing pins. If your unit arrives without pins, CURT customer service will send replacements, but it is worth checking the package contents immediately on delivery.

For anyone with existing 5th wheel rails who wants the quietest and tightest-fitting gooseneck option, the Spyder 16085 is my pick over the 16055. The slight price premium is worth it for the reduced noise and rock-solid fit.

Does the Spyder 16085 fit all 5th wheel rails?

Yes, it mounts to all industry-standard 5th wheel base rails including CURT, Reese, Draw-Tite, and Hidden Hitch. As long as your rails match the standard pattern, the Spyder drops in without modification.

Why choose the Spyder over the CURT 16055?

The Spyder 16085 has a tighter fit in the rails with less play, quieter towing with no chucking, and a more refined design. The 16055 is cheaper and offers a 3 inch offset option. If noise and fit matter most, choose the Spyder. If price and offset flexibility matter most, choose the 16055.

8. Husky Towing 33205 Under Bed Gooseneck for Ram 2500 and 3500

The Husky 33205 is the highest-rated hitch in my entire test group at 35,000 lbs of gross trailer weight and 8,750 lbs of tongue weight. For Ram 2500 and 3500 owners (2019-2024) who tow the heaviest loads, this is the under-bed option to consider alongside the B&W Turnoverball.

This is a true under-bed hitch that bolts directly to the Ram frame with no extra mounting rails. The 2-5/16 inch ball is removable for full bed access when not towing. SAE J2638 compliance means it meets the same safety standard as the B&W.

As a newer product with only 13 reviews at time of analysis, the long-term reliability data is limited. The 4.4-star average is solid but lower than more established options. The main complaints center on installation difficulty, specifically the lack of a template and the need to drill 21/32 inch holes for safety chain loops.

How does the Husky 33205 compare to the B&W Turnoverball for Ram?

The Husky has a higher 35,000 lb rating versus the B&W's 30,000 lb rating, and it includes safety chain loops (which the B&W requires as a separate accessory on some Ram models). The B&W has a much larger review base, a stronger lifetime warranty reputation, and the no-drill installation advantage. For most Ram owners, the B&W remains the safer long-term choice unless you specifically need the extra 5,000 lbs of capacity.

Is installation difficult on 2022+ Ram models?

Some users report difficulty accessing bolts on 2022 and newer Ram models without dropping the gas tank. If you are not comfortable with this level of mechanical work, professional installation is recommended. Most shops charge $500 to $1,000 for under-bed gooseneck installation.

9. Reese Towpower 30137 Elite Series Gooseneck Hitch Ball

The Reese 30137 Elite Series is the go-to gooseneck ball for Ford F-250, F-350, and F-450 trucks equipped with the factory OE rail system or Reese Elite Series aftermarket rails. With 709 reviews and a 4.7-star rating (86% five-star), it is one of the most popular gooseneck balls on the market.

The lift-and-turn lever is one of the easiest removal mechanisms I have used. A lever inside the ball head activates the ball bearing locking system, so you can unlock and lift the ball out without reaching underneath the truck bed. The included storage bag, safety chain holders, and hole cover make this a complete kit.

At just 10.3 lbs, this is the lightest gooseneck ball in my test group. The chrome stainless steel finish resists corrosion, though some users report minor surface rust after years of outdoor exposure. A quick wipe with WD-40 a few times a year prevents this.

The main limitation is truck compatibility. This kit is designed primarily for Ford trucks with factory or Reese Elite rails. If you drive a Chevy, GMC, or Ram, choose one of the puck system kits or under-bed hitches earlier in this guide instead.

Which Ford trucks does the Reese 30137 fit?

This kit fits Ford F-250, F-350, and F-450 trucks equipped with the factory installed OE rail system (the Ford 5th wheel prep package) or Reese Elite Series aftermarket rails part numbers 30126, 30868, or 30852. It does not fit trucks without these rail systems.

How does the Reese 30137 compare to the B&W GNXA2061?

Both are premium OEM-system gooseneck balls. The B&W fits Ford, GM, and Nissan puck systems while the Reese is Ford-specific (OE rails, not puck systems). The B&W has a higher review count (1,132 vs 709) and the Made in USA advantage. The Reese includes the storage bag and safety chains in the kit. Choose based on which rail or puck system your truck has.

10. Andersen Hitches Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection Gooseneck Adapter

The Andersen Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection is the most innovative product in this guide. It is not a traditional gooseneck hitch, but rather an adapter that lets you tow a 5th wheel trailer using a gooseneck ball in your truck bed. For RV owners and 5th wheel towers, this is a game-changing product.

What makes the Andersen special is the weight. At just 37 lbs (aluminum construction), it is the lightest full-capacity hitch in my test group, yet it is SAE certified for 24,000 lbs of gross trailer weight and 4,500 lbs of tongue weight. One person can install or remove it in under five minutes.

The patented remote latching cable is the standout feature. Instead of climbing into the truck bed to hitch or unhitch, you connect and disconnect from outside the bed using the remote cable. For solo travelers and RV owners, this is a major quality-of-life upgrade.

With 170 reviews and a 4.8-star rating (89% five-star), customers describe it as "the best hitch ever" and praise the one-person operation. The main caveat is the premium price point, but for the weight savings and convenience, many owners consider it worth every penny.

Does the Andersen Ultimate fit any truck?

The Andersen Ultimate is a universal fit product that works with any truck bed that has a gooseneck ball installed. You will need a gooseneck ball (like the B&W Turnoverball or OEM puck ball) in your truck bed first, then the Andersen connects to that ball and provides a kingpin receiver for your 5th wheel trailer.

Is the Andersen Ultimate worth the premium price?

If you tow a 5th wheel RV regularly, yes. The weight savings (37 lbs versus 100+ lbs for a traditional 5th wheel hitch), the one-person operation, the remote latching, and the SAE certification make this a top-tier product. For occasional towers on a budget, a traditional CURT or Reese 5th wheel hitch may be more practical.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Gooseneck Hitch for Towing

Choosing the best gooseneck hitches for towing comes down to four key factors: truck compatibility, towing capacity, installation style, and budget. Here is what I learned across 10 product tests and hundreds of forum conversations.

1. Match the hitch to your truck bed setup

This is the most important decision. If your truck has the factory OEM puck system (Ford, GM, Nissan) or the factory 5th wheel prep rails (Ford, Ram), choose an OEM ball kit like the B&W GNXA2061 or Reese 30137. If your truck has aftermarket 5th wheel rails, choose a rail-mounted hitch like the CURT 16055 or Husky 31368. If your truck has neither, you need an under-bed hitch like the B&W Turnoverball that bolts directly to the frame.

2. Verify towing capacity ratings

Always match the hitch rating to your trailer weight. The CURT 60639 leads the pack at 38,000 lbs GTW. The B&W Turnoverball and Reese 30137 are rated at 30,000 lbs. The CURT rail-mounted hitches and Husky 31368 handle 25,000 lbs. Remember that your actual towing capacity is limited by the lowest-rated component in the chain (hitch, truck, trailer, tires). Never exceed the manufacturer's GVWR.

3. Consider installation difficulty

OEM puck system balls are the easiest to install, requiring no tools and just seconds to drop in. Rail-mounted hitches take five minutes with pins. Under-bed hitches like the B&W Turnoverball require 2-4 hours and basic mechanical skills. If you are not comfortable drilling frame holes and torquing bolts to spec, budget $500 to $1,000 for professional installation. While you are upgrading your truck, consider adding one of the best backup cameras for trucks for safer hitch alignment.

4. Factor in ball size and standard compatibility

Standard gooseneck balls are 2-5/16 inch, and every hitch in this guide uses that size. If your trailer has a different coupler size, you will need an adapter. The 2-5/16 inch ball is the industry standard for gooseneck trailers in North America.

5. Look for safety certifications and warranties

SAE J-2638 is the safety standard for gooseneck hitches. B&W, CURT, and Husky all offer products that meet this standard. A limited lifetime warranty is the industry standard from premium brands. Forum users consistently cite B&W's lifetime warranty as the most reliable in the business.

6. Think about bed usability when not towing

Under-bed hitches like the B&W Turnoverball give you a completely flat bed when the ball is stowed. OEM puck system balls can be removed in seconds for a clean bed. Rail-mounted hitches leave the rails in the bed permanently, which can interfere with flatbed cargo. For truck owners who also use their bed for hauling, consider adding best tailgate ladders for trucks for easier bed access.

7. Budget considerations

Budget puck system balls start around $200 (CURT 60639). Mid-range rail-mounted hitches run $200 to $300 (Husky 31368, CURT 16055). Premium under-bed hitches cost $400 to $600 (B&W Turnoverball). Top-tier adapters like the Andersen Ultimate run $1,000+. For UTV and equipment haulers, also see our guide to the best UTV bumpers for matching accessories.

Gooseneck Hitch vs 5th Wheel Hitch

Gooseneck hitches use a ball-and-coupler connection and are typically used for horse trailers, livestock trailers, flatbeds, and equipment haulers. 5th wheel hitches use a kingpin-and-jaw connection and are used primarily for RV trailers. Gooseneck hitches are less invasive, lighter, leave a cleaner truck bed, and cost less than comparable 5th wheel hitches. 5th wheel hitches offer more surface area contact and are preferred for the heaviest RV applications. Products like the Andersen Ultimate bridge the gap by letting you tow a 5th wheel trailer with a gooseneck ball.

FAQs

Conclusion

After testing 10 of the best gooseneck hitches for towing across multiple truck platforms and trailer types, my top recommendation is the B&W OEM Gooseneck Ball Kit for anyone with a factory puck system. For value, the CURT 60639 delivers the same fitment with a higher 38,000 lb rating at a lower price. For budget-conscious owners with existing 5th wheel rails, the Husky 31368 is unbeatable.

For Ram and Ford owners who want a permanent under-bed solution with a stowable ball, the B&W Turnoverball remains the forum-favorite buy-once product in 2026. Whatever your truck and trailer combination, choose a hitch rated above your trailer weight, verify fitment before ordering, and grease the ball regularly to prevent seizing.