Understanding Vehicle Maintenance

If you use your vehicle for part-time hauling, then you will probably want to install a gooseneck hitch on it. There are a wide variety of gooseneck hitches on the market, which can make it difficult to choose the right one for your needs. Below are some of the features you should consider before making a purchase. 

Towing Capability 

The majority of gooseneck hitches have high load ratings, meaning they should be able to handle as much as your engine can haul. However, there are a few low-cost, light-weight units on the market meant specifically for lighter towing needs. Make sure you check the towing capability before you purchase your hitch. If you are in doubt over what capability you need, it is a good idea to get a hitch that aligns with the maximum capability of your truck to avoid future upgrades. 

Ease of Installation 

Some gooseneck hitches are so easy to install that you can install them yourself in an afternoon without any specialty tools. Options that mount to your factory rails or under your fender tend to have the simplest installations. Hitches that have separate rails or that extend the bed of your truck tend to have more complex, time-consuming installations, and some may need to be installed by a professional. 

Versatility 

One of the main selling points of a gooseneck hitch is that it can easily be removed, flipped, or hidden to make the bed of your truck flat for transporting items in it. Some installations make this transition easier than others. Some gooseneck hitches even have electric flipping mechanisms that allow you to hide or access your hitch with the touch of a button. However, other gooseneck systems will require permanent rails installed in your bed that may take up some space even when the hitch is not in the hauling position. These are a better choice if your truck is primarily a hauling vehicle. 

Price 

While price should not be your first concern when picking out a safe, reliable hitch that will get the job done, it is worth noting that the price range for gooseneck hitches is wide, from around $100 to well over $500. So if your budget is tight, it is a good idea to shop around and carefully consider the above features to get a hitch that is affordable but can be used safely for the loads you plan to haul with it.