Flatbed trucks require a hitch system that sits lower to the bed for ground clearance and maneuverability, while still delivering reliable towing performance. The following selections focus on low-profile, fifth-wheel hitches and adapters that work well with flatbed configurations, emphasizing articulation, ease of use, and compatibility with popular OEM and aftermarket bed setups. Below are five top options with solid track records for stability, quiet operation, and straightforward installation.
| Product | Brand | Type | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| B&W Trailer Hitches Flatbed Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch- RVK3050 | B&W Trailer Hitches | Flatbed Companion | Converts gooseneck to fifth wheel with fully articulating head |
| B&W Trailer Hitches Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch – RVK3500 | B&W Trailer Hitches | Companion Fifth Wheel | Quiet, rattle-free towing with polyurethane bushings |
| B&W Trailer Hitches 25K Companion OEM Fifth Wheel Hitch – Ford/GM | B&W Trailer Hitches | OEM Style Fifth Wheel | OEM puck-system compatibility for Ford/GM |
| B&W Trailer Hitches 25K Companion OEM Fifth Wheel Hitch – Ford OEM | B&W Trailer Hitches | OEM Style Fifth Wheel | Ford OEM puck system compatibility |
| CURT 16310 X5 Gooseneck To 5th Wheel Adapter | CURT | Gooseneck To 5th Wheel Adapter | Allows gooseneck trailers to tow with 5th wheel rails |
B&W Flatbed Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch RVK3050
The RVK3050 is designed to convert a B&W Turnoverball gooseneck hitch into a fifth-wheel setup for flatbed trucks. It features a fully articulating head that allows front-to-back and side-to-side pivoting, which helps maintain alignment when coupling on uneven or unlevel ground. The cam action latching handle provides easy release, even when parked on irregular surfaces. This adaptability makes it a strong option for flatbed users who already own a B&W gooseneck system and want a low-profile, integrated fifth-wheel solution with stable articulation.
B&W Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch RVK3500
The RVK3500 is a standalone fifth-wheel hitch designed to minimize bed intrusion while delivering robust towing. It uses a fully articulating head for smoother front-to-back and side-to-side movement and includes a cam action latching handle for effortless release, even on unlevel sites. Its polyurethane bushings help reduce noise and vibration, contributing to a quieter towing experience. This model is well-suited for flatbed conversions where a compact yet capable hitch is desired without sacrificing stability.
B&W Companion OEM Fifth Wheel Hitch – GM Puck System RVK3715
Designed for GM OEM puck systems, the RVK3715 is a companion-style fifth-wheel hitch that emphasizes compatibility and reliability. It employs a fully articulating head to accommodate uneven terrain and a cam action latching handle for straightforward pairing and release. This hitch provides a secure, streamlined installation on GM flatbed configurations with a focus on minimal bed footprint and solid, quiet towing performance. It is a practical option for trucks equipped with factory puck systems seeking a low-profile, high-capacity solution.
B&W Companion OEM Fifth Wheel Hitch – Ford OEM Puck System RVK3305
For Ford OEM puck-system setups, the RVK3305 mirrors the Companion line’s emphasis on articulation, latching ease, and durable construction. The fully articulating head permits flexible hitch alignment, and the cam action latching handle supports straightforward, reliable locking and release—particularly valuable on uneven, flatbed environments. This option blends low-profile design with Ford-specific mounting compatibility, making it a solid fit for flatbed transformations that rely on OEM mounting rails.
CURT 16310 X5 Gooseneck To 5th Wheel Adapter
The CURT 16310 X5 adapter is designed to maximize versatility by letting you tow both gooseneck and fifth-wheel trailers using a single base setup. It drops into an existing gooseneck hitch and provides an industry-standard 5th-wheel rail pattern. The adapter is tested to tow up to 20,000 lbs gross trailer weight, making it a practical choice for flatbed configurations where owners want to leverage their gooseneck investment while gaining fifth-wheel capability. It is not compatible with certain turret-style pin boxes and may require attention to bedliners or fit with specific hitch brands.
Buying Guide
When choosing a low-profile fifth-wheel hitch for a flatbed, consider these factors:
- Compatibility: Confirm bed rails or puck systems on your truck (Ford, GM, or others) and whether you need a direct OEM fit or a universal solution.
- Bed clearance and footprint: Look for hitches with a low profile and minimal bed intrusion to preserve ground clearance and ease of movement in tight spaces.
- Articulation and alignment: A fully articulating head reduces hookup resistance on uneven ground and improves maneuverability and stability during towing.
- Noise and vibrations: Polyurethane bushings and precision-engineered components help reduce rattling, improving overall ride quality.
- Ease of installation and release: Cam action latches and simple release mechanisms simplify operation, especially in remote locations or on unlevel sites.
- Weight rating and capacity: Match towing capacity to your trailer’s weight, including pin weight, to ensure safe operation within rated limits.
- Durability and materials: Look for corrosion-resistant finishes and robust steel construction designed for long-term use in varied weather conditions.
Perspectives to weigh include turnkey OEM systems (for factory puck setups) versus universal adapters or flatbed-compatible models. OEM solutions often provide the cleanest integration with factory mounting hardware, while universal options grant flexibility across multiple trucks or bed configurations. In flatbed setups, consider how the hitch interacts with the bed rails, how easy it is to install in a worksite setting, and how quiet the towing experience remains under heavy use. Always verify compatibility with your specific truck model year and bed configuration to ensure a proper fit and safe operation.