Let’s Dive into Reese 94720/1225.0179 94720 Goose Box Pin Box 20K
The Reese 94720/1225.0179 94720 Goose Box Pin Box 20K is a game-changer for RV enthusiasts looking to switch from a traditional fifth-wheel hitch to a gooseneck setup. This innovative adapter, endorsed by Lippert Components Inc., promises a smoother, safer, and more convenient towing experience. The integrated airbag, dual shocks, and rubber bumpers work in unison to dampen road vibrations, while its 20,000 lb. capacity handles even larger RVs with ease. Is it worth the considerable investment? Let’s find out!
My F-350 dually had a gooseneck hitch installed when I bought it, originally intended for hauling equipment. When my wife and I decided to upgrade from a bumper-pull travel trailer to a fifth-wheel, I was immediately faced with a decision: install a traditional fifth-wheel hitch or find a gooseneck adapter. I’d always been intrigued by the purported benefits of gooseneck adapters, especially the increased bed space when not towing.
The Reese Goose Box arrived well-packaged and looked incredibly robust. The welds were clean, the powder coat finish was even, and the sheer size of the airbag assembly inspired confidence. The weight was substantial, hinting at the heavy-duty construction.
I considered a couple of cheaper bolt-on adapters, but the horror stories of frame damage and rough rides scared me away. The Reese Goose Box’s OE approval by Lippert Components and its independent lab testing were major selling points. My initial excitement was tempered by the price tag, but the promise of a better ride and reduced stress on my RV’s frame ultimately justified the cost in my mind.
Real-World Testing: Putting Reese 94720/1225.0179 94720 Goose Box Pin Box 20K to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Reese Goose Box on a 300-mile trip from my home in Montana to a camping spot near Yellowstone National Park. The route included a mix of smooth interstate highway and rough, winding mountain roads. The weather cooperated, providing both dry and wet conditions for a thorough shakedown.
The difference in ride quality compared to my previous bumper-pull setup was immediately noticeable. The bucking and chucking that I’d grown accustomed to were significantly reduced. Even on the rougher sections of the highway, the ride felt smoother and more controlled.
The Goose Box required a bit of tweaking to get the air pressure in the airbag dialed in just right. Too little pressure resulted in some sway, while too much made the ride feel a bit stiff. After a couple of adjustments, I found the sweet spot and the trailer tracked beautifully.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of camping, covering over 5,000 miles in various terrains and weather conditions, the Reese Goose Box has held up remarkably well. I inspected it regularly for signs of wear or damage and found nothing of concern. The finish still looks new, and all the components are functioning as they should.
There’s been no sign of frame stress or fatigue on my RV. The Goose Box requires minimal maintenance. I check the air pressure in the airbag before each trip and occasionally wipe down the unit to remove road grime.
My previous towing experience with the bumper-pull trailer was often stressful, especially on long trips. The Reese Goose Box has completely changed that. I now arrive at my destination feeling less fatigued and more relaxed. It outperforms any other towing setup I’ve used.
Breaking Down the Features of Reese 94720/1225.0179 94720 Goose Box Pin Box 20K
Specifications
The Reese 94720/1225.0179 94720 Goose Box Pin Box 20K boasts several key specifications that contribute to its superior performance. Its 20,000 lb. capacity makes it suitable for a wide range of RV sizes. The compatibility with standard gooseneck hitches ensures easy installation.
The integrated airbag suspension system is a standout feature, providing adjustable cushioning for a smoother ride. The dual shock absorbers further dampen vibrations, minimizing stress on both the tow vehicle and the RV. Finally, rubber bumpers provide additional impact absorption, protecting against sudden jolts. These features work in concert to deliver a significantly improved towing experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Reese Goose Box excels in its primary function: providing a smooth and stable towing experience. Its superior shock absorption minimizes vibrations and jarring motions, resulting in a more comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. The reduced stress on the RV frame contributes to long-term durability and reduced maintenance costs.
One minor weakness is the initial setup, which requires some fine-tuning to achieve the optimal air pressure in the airbag. The product does meet my expectations. It is very stable.
Design & Ergonomics
The Reese Goose Box features a robust and well-engineered design. The materials used are heavy-duty and appear built to last, inspiring confidence in the product’s longevity. The overall weight of the unit reflects its sturdy construction, while the design is also ergonomic and easy to install.
The installation process is straightforward, thanks to clear instructions and readily available resources. The learning curve is minimal, even for those with limited experience in towing equipment.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience so far, the Reese Goose Box is built to withstand the rigors of long-distance towing. The powder-coated finish protects against corrosion, and the high-quality components show no signs of premature wear. With proper care and maintenance, this unit should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and inspection. Replacement parts, if needed, are readily available from Reese and other RV supply retailers.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Reese 94720/1225.0179 94720 Goose Box Pin Box 20K comes with a spacer kit to ensure compatibility with various gooseneck hitches. While there are no readily available “customization” options in the traditional sense, the adjustability of the airbag pressure allows for fine-tuning the ride quality. This allows you to tailor the unit’s performance to specific towing conditions.
The Goose Box is designed to work seamlessly with standard gooseneck hitches, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of tow vehicles. Aftermarket accessories, such as air compressors for on-the-go airbag adjustments, can further enhance the towing experience.
Pros and Cons of Reese 94720/1225.0179 94720 Goose Box Pin Box 20K
Pros
- Dramatically improved ride quality: The airbag and shock absorber system effectively dampens road vibrations, providing a smoother and more comfortable towing experience.
- Reduced stress on RV frame: The Reese Goose Box is designed to minimize the transfer of stress to the RV frame, potentially extending its lifespan and reducing maintenance costs.
- OE approved and independently tested: Endorsed by Lippert Components Inc. and proven in independent lab tests to outperform bolt-on adapters, providing peace of mind and confidence in its performance.
- Easy installation and maintenance: The unit is relatively easy to install, and maintenance is minimal, saving time and effort.
- Increased bed space: By eliminating the need for a traditional fifth-wheel hitch, the Goose Box frees up valuable bed space when not towing.
Cons
- Initial setup requires fine-tuning of airbag pressure to achieve optimal ride quality.
- The considerable price.
Who Should Buy Reese 94720/1225.0179 94720 Goose Box Pin Box 20K?
The Reese Goose Box is perfect for RV owners who prioritize a smooth, comfortable, and safe towing experience. It is an excellent choice for those who frequently tow long distances or on rough roads. It’s also great for those who want to maximize their truck bed space when not towing.
Those on a tight budget or who only occasionally tow short distances may find the Reese Goose Box to be an unnecessary expense. Some may be content with cheaper bolt-on adapters, despite the potential compromises in ride quality and frame stress. A must-have accessory would be an air compressor and gauge for easy pressure adjustment.
Conclusion on Reese 94720/1225.0179 94720 Goose Box Pin Box 20K
The Reese 94720/1225.0179 94720 Goose Box Pin Box 20K is a premium gooseneck adapter that delivers on its promise of a smoother, safer, and more convenient towing experience. While the price is significant, the benefits in terms of ride quality, reduced frame stress, and increased bed space make it a worthwhile investment for serious RVers. It really is a game-changer.
The value proposition is clear: you get what you pay for. In this case, you’re paying for a well-engineered, rigorously tested, and OE-approved product that will enhance your RVing experience. I would personally recommend the Reese Goose Box to anyone looking to upgrade their towing setup. If you’re tired of the jarring ride and the limitations of a traditional fifth-wheel hitch, this is the solution you’ve been waiting for. Upgrade your RV experience today!