F350 gooseneck rig setup suggestions

[RancherSam]

Hello,

I have a tractor that I will need to haul and will need to invest in a gooseneck trailer. I have an 04 F350 diesel ( not a dually ). The tractor with the shredder probably weighs around 8k pounds, and the combination is around 28 ft in length. I was thinking about buying a 25ft + 5ft ramp trailer. I have never really bought a trailer that big, my current trailers are 16 ft. Also, I currently do not have a gooseneck hitch. So my question is, what should I be looking at in the trailer buying new, used? I appreciate all suggestions.

Sam

 

[mikim]

Buying new or used trailer I think is all about the $$. I see no reason in particular not to buy used - anything that might be wrong with it will either show up on your inspection of it (ie: warped frame) or not be a big deal to fix, money wise. Buying new you spend a little more but you have the advantage of treating it right to begin with and anything that's broke on it - you did it. The hitch is another matter-- lot of Jim Bob's out there that will set you up ...... Personally i'd stay away from them and go to a pro shop that does that sort of thing --and I'd want a B&W hitch. (google it) It has a 5th wheel hitch that you can get that utilizes the goose hitch. I've got a neighbor that kicks himself everyday for going el cheapo on his goose hitch ......he bought a 5th wheel trailer 3 years after the hitch and has a hassle each time he wants to switch from goose to 5th.

 

[bjcsc]

Why do you want a gooseneck?

Re hitches, we a turnover hitch in our F250. It's great and leaves you with a flat bed when the ball is turned over (the only style that does), It also stores the ball. Ours is made by Draw-Tite, but similar to B&W's turnover hitch. I wouldn't worry about a fifth-wheel if I were you with single rear wheels, esp. since you'll have to give up a clear bed to get it.

 

[chh]

If the trailer has a dovetail and the foldup ramps that make a flat deck the 25' trailer won't be long enough for your setup. Not without strapping the ramps in the upright position anyway. My trailer is a 25'+5' with 3 7000lb axles single wheel set up with the the foldover ramps. When I load a tractor and batwing I am 27' to 28' long and have to chain the ramps upright. If it has the ramps that stand straight up it shoud be fine. The turnover ball setups are slick. I've looked at them and if I get another truck thats not a flatbed that is what I am planning on. It sure beats having the ball sticking up in the bed all the time in the way. Towing a 25' gooseneck is easier than any bumper pull to me. I'd make sure it had good brakes, light wiring, and would prefer spring assist on the ramps in addition to being in overall good condition if it was looking at a used one.