Hitch types

Kingram · 10-25-2001, 01:08 AM

I'd like the opinion of some of you experts on this. I'd appreciate any advice.

Currently I have a tag along 26' travel trailer and a tag along 16' car trailer (7k gross). I immediately need a larger flat bed to replace the car trailer. The local trailer manufacturer (Dalton Ent.) can make me a 24' with either a gooseneck or 5th wheel hitch for the same price.

At some point within a few years, we'll most likely trade the camper for a 5th wheel. My question is:

1) Should I get the flatbed made with a 5th wheel hitch and get that type of hitch for my truck? Then I'd be ready for the camper and discourage people always wanting to borrow the trailer. But, that doesn't seem very neighborly(sp)....

or

2) Get the flatbed with the gooseneck and buy the Reese 5th wheel rails with the gooseneck adapter. Then I'd have the base hitch for the camper already.

or

3) Get the flatbed with the gooseneck and just cut the bed for the traditional gooseneck hitch and worry about the camper 5th wheel later (my least favorite option)

or

4) another option I haven't listed here.

Are the gooseneck hitches better for rough terrain than the 5th wheel? What would be the advantages of one over the other for the flatbed?

Again, thanks to anyone that can give me some advice. I know it takes your time and I certainly appreciate it.

Chris