StickyTOES
Member
Hi, all! First post, though I've been lurking for a few months, since I first started looking for my fifth wheel. I settled on the best brand - Heartland! And picked a Cyclone 38'!
I know and don't care that it voids my warranty (as I'm outside warranty anyhow), so no need to bother even saying that.
My concern is stress on the frame, period. This hitch has a 9" offset, which seems like it would increase the forces on the frame. I'll be towing a 38' Cyclone with it, using a flatbed, so only a 7.5 - 7.75" rise. The low-rise fifth hitches are already too high and won't work without massive work to my flatbed, which already has a 30,000# gooseneck hitch in it.
http://www.adventurerv.net/popup-rv4-xl9-gooseneck-5th-fifth-wheel-hitch-adapter-p-27459.html
I would be happy to replace the pinbox entirely if I can find one that works with a flatbed and supports the weight I need. The trailer is 18,000# GVW and the Reese "Goosebox" is only rated to 16,000# and I cannot seem to find any others, but I know they must exist? Right?
Any help or advice is appreciated. Furthermore, I'd be happy to replace my current pinbox with an air-ride one to lessen the stresses on the frame if anyone thinks that will help. The truck already has Ride-rites on it, so already air assist between the ground and the coupler, whatever it turns out to be. Please help! Thanks!
I know and don't care that it voids my warranty (as I'm outside warranty anyhow), so no need to bother even saying that.
My concern is stress on the frame, period. This hitch has a 9" offset, which seems like it would increase the forces on the frame. I'll be towing a 38' Cyclone with it, using a flatbed, so only a 7.5 - 7.75" rise. The low-rise fifth hitches are already too high and won't work without massive work to my flatbed, which already has a 30,000# gooseneck hitch in it.
http://www.adventurerv.net/popup-rv4-xl9-gooseneck-5th-fifth-wheel-hitch-adapter-p-27459.html
I would be happy to replace the pinbox entirely if I can find one that works with a flatbed and supports the weight I need. The trailer is 18,000# GVW and the Reese "Goosebox" is only rated to 16,000# and I cannot seem to find any others, but I know they must exist? Right?
Any help or advice is appreciated. Furthermore, I'd be happy to replace my current pinbox with an air-ride one to lessen the stresses on the frame if anyone thinks that will help. The truck already has Ride-rites on it, so already air assist between the ground and the coupler, whatever it turns out to be. Please help! Thanks!