Let’s Dive into Reese 94720/1225.0179S 94720 Goose Box 20K Pin Box
For years, I’ve wrestled with the dilemma of hauling my RV trailer. I wanted the stability and maneuverability of a gooseneck hitch without sacrificing the comfort and ease of setup that a traditional 5th wheel pin box offered. That’s where the Reese 94720/1225.0179S 94720 Goose Box 20K Pin Box comes in, promising a seamless transition to gooseneck towing with integrated shock absorption.
I was tired of the chucking and jarring that came with standard pin boxes. I had heard about the “5th Airborne” technology and was eager to experience its claimed smoother ride.
Upon unboxing, the Reese Goose Box immediately struck me as robust and well-engineered. The welds were clean, the powder coating even, and the sheer weight of the unit instilled confidence. It felt like a serious piece of equipment, built to handle serious loads.
I considered other gooseneck adapters and replacement pin boxes. I researched options from Curt and Gen-Y, but the Reese product’s OE endorsement by Lippert and the integrated 5th Airborne system ultimately swayed me. My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism, hoping the reality would match the promise of a significantly improved towing experience.
Real-World Testing: Putting Reese 94720/1225.0179S 94720 Goose Box 20K Pin Box to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was a 300-mile haul through varied terrain, including highway stretches and winding mountain roads. The Goose Box replaced the standard pin box on my 35-foot travel trailer, connecting to the gooseneck hitch already installed in my truck bed.
The difference was immediately noticeable; the “chucking” motion, so common with standard pin boxes, was significantly reduced. The ride felt smoother, more controlled, and less fatiguing, especially on rougher sections of the highway. I didn’t need time to get used to it, it was a seamless transition.
The only surprise was the initial air pressure adjustment, needing a few tweaks to find the optimal setting for my trailer weight and load.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several thousand miles of towing over the past six months, the Reese Goose Box has proven to be exceptionally reliable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, just the typical road grime that washes off easily.
Regular inspection of the airbags, shocks, and mounting points is part of my routine, but nothing has required more than a quick cleaning. Compared to my previous fixed pin box setup, the Reese Goose Box offers a far superior towing experience, delivering a smoother, more controlled, and less stressful ride. It has met and exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Reese 94720/1225.0179S 94720 Goose Box 20K Pin Box
Specifications
- GTW (Gross Trailer Weight): 20,000 lbs. This high capacity easily handles most RV trailers, providing a safe margin for loaded weights.
- TW (Tongue Weight): 4,000 lbs. The tongue weight rating ensures stable towing and prevents sway.
- Compatibility: Fits Lippert 1621HD, Lippert 1621, and Lippert 0719 pin box models. This wide compatibility makes it a versatile upgrade for many RV owners.
- 5th Airborne Technology: Air bag, dual shocks, and rubber bumpers provide multi-directional shock absorption. This is the key to the smoother ride, significantly reducing chucking and vertical motion.
- OE Approved: Endorsed by Lippert Components Inc. for their frame systems. This provides peace of mind knowing it’s designed to work seamlessly with compatible RV frames.
- CSA and SAE J2638 Test Standards: Rated for 20,000 lbs. capacity utilizing both CSA and SAE J2638 test standards. Ensures adherence to safety and performance benchmarks.
- Air Pressure Relief Valve: Prevents overfilling of air bags. A critical safety feature for maintaining optimal performance and preventing damage.
The listed specifications directly translate to a safer, more comfortable, and more reliable towing experience. The high weight ratings ensure that the unit can handle the stresses of heavy towing. The 5th Airborne system mitigates the jarring motions that can damage both the trailer and the tow vehicle over time.
Performance & Functionality
The Reese Goose Box excels in providing a noticeably smoother towing experience. The 5th Airborne technology works as advertised, effectively damping the harshness of the road.
The air ride system smooths out bumps, reduces trailer sway, and minimizes the transfer of vibrations to the tow vehicle. One area for potential improvement is the clarity of the initial air pressure setting instructions, requiring a little experimentation to dial in the optimal ride. It has met and exceeded expectations in terms of ride comfort and towing stability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Reese Goose Box is a well-built and thoughtfully designed piece of equipment. The heavy-duty steel construction inspires confidence, while the powder-coated finish provides excellent corrosion resistance.
The unit is relatively heavy, but this weight is indicative of its robust build quality. While there’s a learning curve to adjusting the air pressure, the overall design is user-friendly and intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Reese Goose Box is built to last. The robust materials and construction suggest a long lifespan, even with frequent use.
Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving periodic inspections and cleaning. Keeping the air lines and fittings free of debris will ensure reliable performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Reese Goose Box doesn’t offer a wide array of customization options, as it is a relatively self-contained unit. However, the air pressure can be adjusted to fine-tune the ride based on trailer weight and personal preference.
While it doesn’t directly interface with many third-party accessories, its compatibility with standard gooseneck hitches and Lippert pin box mounting points ensures it works well with existing towing setups. The spacer kit 61301 is required for installation on Lippert #1716 wing sets.
Pros and Cons of Reese 94720/1225.0179S 94720 Goose Box 20K Pin Box
Pros
- Significantly smoother towing experience due to the 5th Airborne technology, reducing chucking and jarring.
- OE endorsement by Lippert Components Inc., ensuring compatibility and peace of mind.
- High weight capacity (20,000 lbs GTW, 4,000 lbs TW), suitable for a wide range of RV trailers.
- Durable construction and minimal maintenance requirements.
- Improved stability and control compared to standard pin boxes, enhancing safety and reducing driver fatigue.
Cons
- Initial air pressure adjustment can require some trial and error.
- Relatively expensive compared to standard pin boxes or basic gooseneck adapters.
Who Should Buy Reese 94720/1225.0179S 94720 Goose Box 20K Pin Box?
The Reese 94720/1225.0179S 94720 Goose Box 20K Pin Box is perfect for RV owners who prioritize a smooth, comfortable, and controlled towing experience. It is especially well-suited for those who frequently tow long distances or over rough roads.
This is a must-have for anyone upgrading to a gooseneck hitch and seeking to maximize ride quality. Those on a very tight budget or who only tow occasionally on smooth roads may find a standard pin box or basic adapter sufficient.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality air compressor for easy air pressure adjustments.
Conclusion on Reese 94720/1225.0179S 94720 Goose Box 20K Pin Box
The Reese 94720/1225.0179S 94720 Goose Box 20K Pin Box is a worthwhile investment for RV owners seeking a significant improvement in towing comfort and stability. While it comes at a premium price, the benefits of the 5th Airborne technology and the peace of mind of OE endorsement justify the cost.
I wholeheartedly recommend this product to anyone looking to upgrade their towing experience. It’s a game-changer that transforms long hauls into more enjoyable and less stressful journeys. If you’re ready to say goodbye to chucking and hello to smooth sailing, the Reese Goose Box is the answer.