Bumper-pull versus Gooseneck advice needed

[or_boarder]

I have a 2004 2500 (with the factory towing package) which I set up with an under-the-rail bedliner, rail guards, canopy, and Prodigy brake controller. I picked up a nice 3-in-one adjustable hitch so I can pull just about any trailer. Our plan was to get a 2H horse bumper-pull horse trailer, which we're going to use to tow our horses up into the mountains for rides and hunting.



We've finally arrived at picking out our trailer and are looking at our options. We've received advice from a number of people to get a 3H trailer instead of the 2H. And, just about everyone is recommending moving up to a gooseneck.



I've done some reading and I can see that goosenecks are a good way to go. My dilemma is this: I'm all set to tow with the bumper-tow option. If I decide to go gooseneck I am going to have to remove and store my canopy every time I want to use the horse trailer. Furthermore, would I have to cut a hole through the bedliner to add the gooseneck plate and ball? If so, should I just sell the liner and then get a spray in liner once the gooseneck hitch has been installed? Also, I've got the brake controller installed- can I use that for the brakes on the gooseneck trailer?



Any opinions or advice would be welcome!



Thanks,

Jon

 

[DAvaux]

The main advantage of having a 5th Wheel Hitch is windy conditions, and being passed by large trucks. Having your pivot point over your rear axle is more stable and you get less trailer sway.

 

[HBarlow]

Goosenecks and fifth wheel are inherently more stable in all weather conditions. You could simply cut out a portion of the bed liner to match the hitch mount. Your brake control will work unless you buy a triple axle trailer. Some brake controllers are limited to two or four axles.



Harvey

 

[Nordby]

I'd never buy a bumper pull because my horse towing is at highway speed (ok, 70mph typically, towing at 75 is not for me anymore) and I love the stability.



However, if I was hunting and trail riding, pulling slower, and staying more local, bumper pulls are more maneuverable, and you are not in danger of denting your bed-sides in pastures /mountain roads. A small 4-horse (16' or 18') open stock trailer, center gate, can be used to store gear, haul your friends horses, haul your 4-wheeler and horses, store your junk, haul your furniture when ya move, etc. and is not much bigger than 2 horse. And it has resale value.



my opinion of course!

jon.

 

[McCRam]

Goosenecks are definately the nicest way to pull, but it sounds like it would be inconvenient for you. For two horses you do not need a gooseneck. Double check your reciever hitch to make sure it is up to the job. With two horses and a trailer, you will be pushing, if not over, 5000 lbs. I would not trust the one that came with my truck with my horses. A load distributing hitch would help out to.

 

[Greg Boardman-RIP]

I agree with McCram,

A bumper pull will be fine. Pull all you want with the stock hitch. The trailer I would look at is a 2 horse slant load with a dressing room/tack room. Horses seem to haul better at a slant.



JMHO

Greg