Reese 9480 18K Hi Rise Hide A Goose Fifth Wheel Adapter Review

Let’s Dive into Reese 9480 18K Hi Rise Hide A Goose Fifth Wheel Adapter

For years, I’ve been hauling everything from ATVs to livestock trailers across state lines. And over that time, I’ve learned one immutable truth: a reliable hitch is the linchpin of any successful haul. The Reese 9480 18K Hi Rise Hide A Goose Fifth Wheel Adapter promises to be just that – a robust solution for converting a gooseneck hitch into a fifth wheel setup, offering versatility and peace of mind. This adapter boasts a self-latching jaw design, adjustable height, and a hefty 18,000 lbs gross trailer weight capacity, all packaged to seamlessly integrate with Draw-Tite’s Hide-A-Goose system.

What drew me to the Reese 9480 was the need for a more adaptable towing solution. I already had a gooseneck hitch installed in my truck bed, primarily for hauling livestock. However, I recently acquired a fifth-wheel camper for family road trips. Rather than installing a completely separate fifth-wheel hitch, I sought an adapter that could leverage my existing gooseneck setup.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the sheer weight and robust construction. The adapter felt solid and well-engineered, with a durable-looking black powder-coat finish. The components seemed precisely machined, and the instructions were clear and concise. Initial handling suggested a product designed for serious towing tasks.

I considered the B&W Companion, which is known for its smooth operation and sturdiness. I also looked at the Curt Manufacturing E16, lauded for its ease of installation and affordability. Ultimately, I chose the Reese 9480 due to its compatibility with my existing Draw-Tite Hide-A-Goose system and the promise of a quiet, smooth ride, facilitated by the adjustable stabilizer strips.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The adapter certainly looked the part, but the proof would be in the pudding – or rather, on the open road with a fifth-wheel camper in tow. I was excited to see if it lived up to its claims of a secure and comfortable towing experience.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Reese 9480 18K Hi Rise Hide A Goose Fifth Wheel Adapter to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test involved a weekend camping trip to the Ozark Mountains, a roughly 300-mile round trip. I hooked up my 30-foot fifth-wheel camper, making sure to follow the installation instructions meticulously. The terrain was varied, with stretches of smooth highway interspersed with winding mountain roads and some gravel sections.

The Reese 9480 performed admirably in varying conditions. On the highway, the ride was surprisingly smooth and quiet. The adjustable stabilizer strips effectively minimized any rattling or jarring noises. Even on the more challenging mountain roads, the adapter felt secure and stable, providing confidence while navigating tight turns.

Initially, the self-latching jaw design took a little getting used to. But after a few practice runs, it became second nature. No major issues emerged after the first use, only a slight adjustment to the height setting to ensure optimal trailer leveling.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Reese 9480 has proven to be a reliable and durable towing companion. I’ve logged over 5,000 miles with it, hauling my fifth-wheel camper on various adventures, from the Gulf Coast to the Rocky Mountains. The adapter continues to perform as expected, providing a secure and comfortable towing experience.

The adapter has held up well to the elements. Despite exposure to rain, mud, and road salt, there are no signs of significant wear or corrosion. The black powder-coat finish has remained intact, protecting the underlying metal from rust.

Cleaning the Reese 9480 is relatively straightforward. I typically use a pressure washer to remove dirt and debris, followed by a light application of grease to the moving parts to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. Maintenance has been minimal, mostly consisting of checking the tightness of the bolts and lubricating the jaws.

Compared to my previous experience with a standard fifth-wheel hitch, the Reese 9480 offers a significant improvement in terms of versatility and ease of use. Being able to quickly convert between a gooseneck and fifth-wheel setup is a huge time-saver, and the smoother ride makes long hauls much more enjoyable. I find it far less clunky than the older, heavier fifth wheel hitch I used previously.

Breaking Down the Features of Reese 9480 18K Hi Rise Hide A Goose Fifth Wheel Adapter

Specifications

The Reese 9480 18K Hi Rise Hide A Goose Fifth Wheel Adapter boasts several key specifications:

• Gross Trailer Weight Capacity: 18,000 lbs. This high capacity allows for towing a wide range of fifth-wheel trailers.
• Pin Weight Capacity: 4,500 lbs. This determines the maximum vertical load that can be placed on the hitch.
• Fifth Wheel Height Adjustments: 14-1/4″ to 18″. These adjustments allow for matching the trailer height to the truck bed height.
• 4-Way Pivoting Head. This head provides enhanced maneuverability and a smoother towing experience.
• Self-Latching Jaw Design. This design provides a secure and reliable connection between the hitch and the trailer.
• Adjustable Stabilizer Strips. These strips help to reduce noise and vibration during towing.
• Two-Year Limited Warranty. This warranty provides peace of mind against manufacturing defects.

These specifications are crucial for safe and reliable towing. The high weight capacity ensures that the adapter can handle the load of most fifth-wheel trailers, while the adjustable height allows for proper trailer leveling. The pivoting head and stabilizer strips contribute to a smoother and more comfortable ride, while the self-latching jaw provides a secure connection.

Performance & Functionality

The Reese 9480 performs its job exceptionally well. Its self-latching mechanism engages securely, and the four-way pivoting head allows for smooth turning and maneuvering, even on uneven terrain. The hitch provides a stable and confident towing experience, whether on the highway or off the beaten path.

The primary strength of this adapter lies in its versatility and ease of use. The ability to quickly convert between a gooseneck and fifth-wheel setup is a huge advantage for those who haul a variety of trailers. The adjustable height and stabilizer strips further enhance its functionality, ensuring a comfortable and quiet ride.

The only minor weakness is the initial learning curve associated with the self-latching jaw design. However, with a little practice, this becomes second nature. Overall, the Reese 9480 exceeds expectations in terms of performance and functionality.

Design & Ergonomics

The Reese 9480 features a robust and well-engineered design. The adapter is constructed from heavy-duty steel, ensuring durability and longevity. The black powder-coat finish provides excellent protection against corrosion and wear.

The adapter is relatively easy to install and remove, thanks to its simple and intuitive design. The adjustable height settings are easily accessible, and the self-latching jaw mechanism is straightforward to operate. The weight of the adapter can be a bit cumbersome, but this is to be expected given its heavy-duty construction.

Durability & Maintenance

The Reese 9480 is built to last. Its heavy-duty steel construction and durable powder-coat finish ensure that it can withstand the rigors of regular use. With proper maintenance, this adapter should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is relatively simple. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the moving parts are all that is required to keep the adapter in good working order. The two-year limited warranty provides additional peace of mind against manufacturing defects.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Reese 9480 does not come with a wide range of accessories. However, it is compatible with the Draw-Tite Hide-A-Goose gooseneck hitch system. This allows for seamless integration and easy conversion between gooseneck and fifth-wheel towing.

While the adapter itself is not highly customizable, there are some aftermarket accessories that can be used to enhance its performance. For example, some users may choose to add a supplemental sway control system for added stability when towing in windy conditions. Furthermore, the lockable extended length handle enhances theft prevention.

Pros and Cons of Reese 9480 18K Hi Rise Hide A Goose Fifth Wheel Adapter