Can I Install My Own Gooseneck Hitch? Easy as 1-2-3

Published on: September 8, 2022

By: Miles HenryFact Checked

I was so excited to finally buy my new truck. It was the perfect size for me to pull a horse trailer, and I couldn’t wait to take it on the road. But there was one thing I needed to do before I could really start using it: install a gooseneck hitch. I wondered if I could install it myself.

Yes, you can install your own gooseneck hitch. While they are not the most challenging type of hitch to install, they are definitely not a simple Plug-and-Play installation. If you have never installed a gooseneck hitch before, it is highly recommended that you seek professional assistance.

If you’re considering installing a gooseneck hitch, it’s important to know what your options are and how to do it safely. In this post, we’ll give you a guide on how to install a gooseneck hitch on your own and some of the things you need to consider before doing so.

We walk you through the process step-by-step and even provide you with all the tools you need to get the job done right. Plus, we consider essential safety considerations so that you can rest assured knowing your truck is in good hands.

• What is a gooseneck hitch, and what are its benefits over other types of hitches?
• How do you install a gooseneck hitch on your vehicle, and is it difficult to do so?
• What are the precautions you need to take when installing a gooseneck hitch on your vehicle, and how can you avoid damage to your car or truck in the process?
• How much does a gooseneck hitch cost, and where can you buy one if you don’t want to install it yourself?

What is a gooseneck hitch?

A gooseneck hitch is a type of trailer hitch that is designed for use with a gooseneck trailer. It consists of a ball mount that attaches to the gooseneck coupler and a hitch receiver that mounts to the truck bed.

The gooseneck hitch provides a more secure connection than a standard trailer hitch, and it allows for greater control when backing up and turning corners. It is important to note that a gooseneck hitch cannot be used with a fifth-wheel trailer. If you are looking to tow a gooseneck horse trailer, then you will need to install a gooseneck hitch.

What are the benefits of a gooseneck hitch over other hitches?

A gooseneck hitch is a type of towing device that attaches to the bed of a pickup truck. Unlike traditional hitches, which attach to the rear bumper, gooseneck hitches mount directly to the frame of the truck.

This provides a number of advantages in terms of stability and safety. First, gooseneck hitches distribute the weight of the trailer more evenly across the truck, which helps to prevent swaying and improve handling.

Second, gooseneck hitches provide greater clearance between the trailer and the ground, which is especially useful when loading and unloading. Lastly, gooseneck hitches offer greater control when braking and turning, making them ideal for hauling heavy loads.

Whether you’re pulling a horse trailer or a construction trailer, a gooseneck hitch is the best way to ensure a safe and successful journey.

How do you install a gooseneck hitch on your vehicle?

A gooseneck hitch is a must-have for any horse owner that travels a lot, especially those that haul multiple horses and want livings quarters. If you’re looking to install one on your own vehicle, there are a few things you’ll need to know.

First, gooseneck hitches are available in both fifth-wheel and standard trailer hitch models. If you’re unsure of which model you need, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or ask a professional at your local auto parts store.

Once you’ve determined which model you need, the next step is to select the right gooseneck hitch for your vehicle. There are many different brands and models on the market, so it’s important to do your research and select a hitch that is compatible with your truck.

Here are a couple of popular gooseneck hitches:

I recommend the Curt Doublelock Flip and Store. The installation is pretty straightforward, and it’s reasonably priced. Below is YouTube video showing its installation in a Chevy truck.

Another popular option is B&W Turnoverball Underbed Gooseneck– It’s a bit more expensive than the Curt model but is a high-quality product. The hitch comes in two pieces which makes it a little easier to handle than others, and there are also videos available to help you with installation.

After you’ve made your selection, it’s time to install the hitch. Most gooseneck hitches come with detailed instructions, so be sure to follow them carefully. In most cases, installation is a relatively simple process that can be completed in an afternoon.

However, if you’re not confident in your ability to install the hitch yourself, it’s always best to consult a professional. With a little bit of know-how and the right tools, installing a gooseneck hitch is a project that any do-it-yourselfer can handle.

Before discussing the actual installation, let’s first look at the necessary tools.

1. Drill
2. 1/2″ drill bit
3. Set of socket wrenches
4. Ratchet
5. Tape measure
6. Pry bar

Installing a hitch for a gooseneck trailer (step by step)

Step 1: Take out the spare tire and finish the trimming.

The first thing you need to do is pull the spare tire out from underneath the truck. After removing the spare tire from the vehicle, you will need to use a trim tool to remove the plastic trim piece covering the hole in the car that will be used to attach the gooseneck ball. Keep the amount of trim and the hardware that goes with it, as you will need to reinstall it later.

Step 2: After determining the size of the ball’s hole, drill it.

The next step is to take a measurement and mark the hole’s center, where the gooseneck ball will be put. After determining the center’s location, you should use a drill bit to create a pilot hole. Use a step bit to enlarge the pilot hole to 1-and-a-half inches in diameter.

Step 3: Install the cross-arm brackets.

Following the previous step, you will need to put the cross-arm brackets into the hole drilled to a depth of 1-1/2 inches. The frames must be a good fit in the hole. After the brackets have been secured to their respective locations, use a drill bit to bore two holes through each bracket and into the vehicle’s frame.

Step 4: Install the section of the gooseneck that goes in the middle.

At this point, you will need to insert the center section of the gooseneck into the corresponding hole in the truck’s bed. The middle section should cover the hole in the center part. After the center section has been secured in its position, use a drill bit to create four holes that go through the center portion and into the truck’s bed.

Step 5: Fasten the brackets to the side plate using the screws.

After the central portion has been correctly positioned, you will be tasked with affixing the side plate brackets to the section’s sides using the appropriate hardware. Make two holes in the center using a drill bit to drill through the side plates and into the middle section.

Step 6: Tighten any screws or bolts attached to the hardware.

Now, ensure that the bolts are correctly torqued. You will need to use a socket wrench to tighten the screws or bolts on any hardware properly. Before continuing to the following step, you must check that all the fasteners are securely fastened.

Step 7: Connect the anchors of the safety chain.

Safety chain anchors are obligatory to prevent the gooseneck ball from becoming detached from the hitch. The anchors should be fastened to the truck’s frame using bolts or screws. You will need to attach the safety chain anchors once you have completed the gooseneck hitch installation. The hitch should be worked on both sides to install the safety chain anchors properly.

Step 8: Install the operational handle.

The installation procedure has reached its last stage at this point. It is recommended that you install the handle used to operate the hitch on the side of the trap. When you are finished installing the handle, the next step will be to connect the safety chain to the anchor. Check that the chains are not too loose or tight and adjust as necessary.

Important considerations before mounting a gooseneck hitch on a short-bed truck

When installing a gooseneck hitch in a short bed truck, there are a few essential factors to keep in mind, including the following:

You must check that the hitch is positioned in the middle of the truck’s bed. To properly support the trap, you will require additional cross-members to be used.

You may need to use a spacer kit to raise the ball to a higher position in the truck bed.

What bed size is required for a gooseneck?

A truck bed of at least 6 feet is required for a gooseneck hitch to be installed. However, we believe that a bed length of at least 8 feet will provide the best possible stability.

How much does it cost to have a gooseneck hitch professionally installed?

The installation price will change depending on the kind of hitch you get and the dimensions of your truck. However, the installation cost might range from $200 to $500.

What sets a gooseneck hitch apart from a fifth wheel hitch, and vice versa?

The bed of a pickup truck is ideal for installing a gooseneck hitch because of its size and shape. Fifth-wheel trailers are the only type that can accommodate the installation of a fifth-wheel hitch. Towing trailers can be accomplished using either trap. However, a gooseneck hitch cannot be used with a fifth-wheel trailer because of their incompatibility.

I want to tow a travel trailer, but I’m unsure if a gooseneck hitch will work.

To haul a travel trailer, you may use your gooseneck hitch. However, before you load it, you should verify the weight capacity of your trap to ensure that it can support the load. If you’re unsure, check with a professional. Safety is paramount when hauling a trailer.

Conclusion

Installation of a gooseneck hitch is a relatively straightforward task that may be finished within two hours. However, if you are unfamiliar with auto repairs, you should get assistance with the installation process.

Before loading, we also recommend you check your hitch’s weight capacity. Thank you for reading, and we hope you found this helpful post. If you’re confident in your ability to do some essential mechanical work and have the necessary tools, then installing a gooseneck hitch yourself is an option.

However, there are a few things you’ll want to take into account before getting started. We’ve outlined the process for you step-by-step and some important considerations to keep in mind. 

Below is a helpful YouTube video that shows how to install a CURT gooseneck hitch.

FAQs about the Gooseneck Hitch

I really hope that you find this article useful in assisting you in installing your own Gooseneck Hitch.