When towing large fifth-wheel trailers, a reliable air ride hitch can dramatically reduce chucking, jolts, and road shock. The following selections represent top-rated air ride 5th wheel pin boxes and conversion kits designed to fit common Lippert, Rhino, and Fabex mounting systems. This guide compares capacity, installation, and ride characteristics to help you choose the right setup for heavy loads and mixed terrains.
| Product | Capacity | Fit / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Reese 94920 Goose Box | 20,000 lbs | Fits Lippert 1621, 1716, 0719; Fabex PB 600 Series |
| Lippert CURT L05 Air Ride 18K | 18,000 lbs | Internal airbag with built-in strut; reduces chucking |
| Reese 94716 Goose Box | 16,000 lbs | Fits Lippert 1621, 1716, 0719; Fabex PB 600 |
| Shocker Quick Air Ride 5th Wheel Pin Box (Lippert 1621/0719) | Up to 24,000 lbs | Includes air ride system; compatible with multiple Lippert sizes |
| Shocker Quick Air Ride 5th Wheel Pin Box (Lippert 1621/ RhinoBox) | Up to 24,000 lbs | Air ride, adjustable air pressure, fit for RhinoBox |
Reese Goose Box 94920 — Air Ride 20K
The Reese 94920 Goose Box is a heavy-duty fifth-wheel pin box designed to connect to the goose ball in the truck bed, effectively replacing the standard pin box. With a maximum capacity of 20,000 pounds, it is built for large rigs and heavy-distribution towing. The Goose Box utilizes air ride technology, including an easy-to-fill airbag, dual shocks, and rubber springs housed inside the unit to absorb road irregularities. An integrated air manifold provides straightforward inflation and an automatic relief valve prevents overfilling, ensuring a smooth ride under varying loads. In addition to ride quality, the Goose Box helps keep the truck bed clean by removing the goose ball when not towing. This model is compatible with Lippert 1621, 1716, 0719, and Fabex PB 600 Series mounting patterns, making it versatile for a wide range of fifth-wheel configurations.
Key features include maximum strength, airbag-based damping, and a simple removal process to free up truck bed space. Installation involves replacing the factory pin box and attaching to the goose ball, enabling a clean bed when not in use. For owners prioritizing a robust, high-capacity air ride option, this Reese Goose Box presents a balanced mix of strength and comfort on demanding routes.
Lippert CURT L05 Air Ride 18K — Internal Airbag
The Lippert CURT L05 Air Ride 18K fifth wheel pin box emphasizes smoother towing through an internal airbag design that acts as a buffer between the trailer and tow vehicle. Rated at 18,000 pounds, this unit uses a built-in airbag and a rigid frame plus integrated struts to reduce chucking and vertical jarring. The combination of internal air springs and a durable black powder-coated finish helps withstand frequent use on varying road surfaces. As an internal airbag solution, it focuses on reducing the transfer of road shock, protecting both trailer content and the tow rig. This option is well-suited for RV owners who value steady ride quality with a straightforward installation process that minimizes bed clutter and hitch movement.
Important considerations include compatibility with Lippert 1621, 0719, and RhinoBox frames, expected maintenance of the built-in air system, and ensuring proper air pressure in different load scenarios to maximize ride comfort.
Reese 94716 Goose Box — 16K Capacity
The 94716 Goose Box from Reese provides 16,000 pounds of towing capacity, pairing a robust structure with air ride comfort. Like other Goose Box models, it is designed to connect to the goose ball in the truck bed, enabling a clean bed when not towing. Its air ride technology combines an easy-to-fill airbag, dual shocks, and rubber springs to dampen road shocks and vibrations, resulting in a smoother towing experience. This model fits Lippert 1621, 1716, and 0719 patterns as well as Fabex PB 600 Series, making it a versatile choice for many mid-to-heavy duty fifth-wheel setups. The Goose Box is engineered to deliver reliable performance across a range of road conditions while maintaining a straightforward installation process.
Purchase considerations include the weight rating to match your trailer, the ease of air pressure adjustments for different loads, and how well it integrates with your existing hitch ball system to maintain a stable bed-to-cab relationship during travel.
Shocker Quick Air Ride 5th Wheel Pin Box — Kingpin
The Shocker Quick Air Ride 5th Wheel Pin Box with Kingpin is designed to replace factory fifth-wheel boxes and deliver a smoother tow via an integrated air ride system. This model supports up to 24,000 pounds gross towing weight and 6,000 pounds tongue weight. It includes a 3″ forward offset Shift Lock® coupler for increased bed clearance across various pickup configurations. The air ride mechanism dampens vertical jostling, reducing wear on both tow vehicles and trailers. Installation is described as quick and straightforward, with the goal of eliminating rough rides on rough roads. This option is compatible with Lippert 1621, 0719, and RhinoBox mounting patterns, providing a flexible upgrade path for many trucks and trailers.
Key considerations include matching bed length and cab clearance, verifying fit with your gooseneck or fifth-wheel setup, and ensuring proper air pressure adjustments to maintain optimal ride quality and control under load.
Shocker Quick Air Ride 5th Wheel Pin Box — Kingpin (Lippert 1716)
This Shocker Quick Air Ride 5th Wheel Pin Box with Kingpin targets Lippert 1716, 1116, 0115 and FabEx500/503/520/530 families, delivering a 24,000-pound GTW rating with a 6,000-pound tongue capacity. The design emphasizes a simple pivot-based motion to absorb bumps, eliminating the need for more complex linkages or external shocks. The built-in air ride system remains hidden inside the pin box, providing a smoother towing experience. It installs by replacing the factory box and allows air pressure adjustment to suit load weight and road conditions. This option is praised for improving ride quality on long hauls while preserving cab clearance and bed space.
Shocker Quick Air Ride 5th Wheel to Gooseneck Kit — Lippert 1621/0719
This conversion kit converts a standard 5th wheel setup to a gooseneck-style ride with an air hitch and Shift Lock® coupler. It includes a replacement gooseneck pin box and a Shocker Gooseneck Surge air hitch with a 3″ forward offset coupler for improved cab clearance across various bed lengths. The kit is designed to install quickly and provide an air spring buffer to absorb road shock, helping to protect both the truck and trailer. Weight handling remains substantial, with up to 24,000 pounds towing capacity and 6,000 pounds tongue weight. The addition of a safety chain kit enhances overall security when towing heavy loads.
Buying Guide: Air Ride 5th Wheel Hitches — Key Considerations
When selecting an air ride 5th wheel hitch or pin box, consider the following aspects to ensure a well-matched setup for your trailer and truck:
- Weight capacity: Match the hitch or pin box rating to your trailer’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and your tow vehicle’s payload capacity. Heavier rigs benefit from higher-capacity units like 20,000 lb or 24,000 lb designs.
- Mounting compatibility: Confirm the model fits your fifth-wheel mounting pattern (Lippert 1621, 1716, 0719, RhinoBox, Fabex PB 600/500 series). Incompatibilities can require adapters or a different product.
- Ride quality: Air ride components (airbags, shocks, and springs) dampen vertical movement, reducing chucking and bumps. Internal airbags vs external systems have different maintenance needs and accessibility.
- Bed clearance and cab clearance: Some units include offset couplers or require specific bed lengths. Verify that installation won’t interfere with cab access or bed storage when not towing.
- Ease of installation: Some products are designed as direct replacements for factory pin boxes, while others require more extensive chassis changes or gooseneck conversions. Evaluate the installation time and potential need for professional help.
- Maintenance and durability: Air systems require periodic inspection of the air lines, valves, and airbags for leaks. Durable finishes help resist road salt, rocks, and debris.
- Protection and compatibility with accessories: If you use safety chains, transfer hoses, or additional hitch accessories, ensure the chosen product accommodates or coexists with these items.
From a vehicle dynamics perspective, air ride hitch systems are designed to absorb shocks and reduce the transmission of road impulses to the trailer and tow vehicle. This can lead to gentler braking, less trailer sway, and improved overall control on rough highways. Weigh your priorities—maximum tongue weight handling, ease of installation, or best ride comfort—and select a model that aligns with your typical towing conditions.