If you want a complete, flip-up ball system that clears your bed for hauling gear or ice fishing supplies when not in use, choose GNG Gooseneck Trailer Hitch; if you need a heavy-duty 2-5/16 inch ball rated for massive loads with factory-matched hardware and chain anchors included, choose RBoand Gooseneck Tow Hitch.
• GNG Gooseneck Trailer Hitch: Its standout strength is the flip-up design that lets you store the ball out of the way to maximize truck bed space; the trade-off is that it requires professional installation and lacks a provided manual. This pick is ideal for owners who need versatility and bed storage flexibility.
• This pick is best for those prioritizing maximum towing capacity and OEM compatibility.
• The Verdict on Fit: Choose GNG if your priority is keeping your bed clear for non-towing tasks like camping or ice fishing setups; choose RBoand if your primary goal is towing heavy gooseneck trailers without worrying about missing hardware or weak ratings.
The GNG kit is built around the concept of utility and adaptability. It is designed specifically for the 2017 through 2022 Ford F250, F350, F450, and F550 trucks. The core of its design philosophy is the ball itself, which is engineered to be flipped up when you are actively towing a trailer, but flipped down and stored directly into the ball hole when you are not. This mechanical feature transforms the truck bed from a towing zone back into a fully usable cargo area. If you own one of these specific Ford models and frequently switch between hauling heavy equipment and moving large loads like lumber, kayaks, or ice fishing shelters, this mechanism offers a practical solution that keeps your bed open and accessible.
Construction-wise, the kit relies on robust materials to ensure safety. It utilizes 5/32-inch steel combined with 2-inch by 0.120-inch seamless tubes. This combination provides excellent stiffness and strength, ensuring the hitch can handle the rigors of towing without flexing excessively under load. The entire unit is finished in black, matching the aesthetic of most modern heavy-duty trucks. The package includes the gray gooseneck trailer rack kit and all necessary installation accessories, meaning you do not need to hunt for bolts or brackets separately.
However, this product is not for everyone, particularly regarding the installation process. This suggests that the fitment may require precise alignment or specific tools that a casual DIYer might not have on hand. If you are looking for a "plug-and-play" experience where you can follow a step-by-step guide printed on paper, this might frustrate you. Furthermore, if you drive a truck model outside the 2017-2022 Ford F-series range, this specific kit will not work for you. It is a specialized solution for a specific set of vehicles that value bed space as much as towing capability.
We compare products from their published specs and features; the verdicts below are our independent editorial opinions.
Updated: 2026-11-06 · 6 min read · Independent comparison
The RBoand Gooseneck Tow Hitch takes a different approach, focusing entirely on the towing event itself rather than storage convenience. It is engineered to be a complete, ready-to-go solution for owners of 2500 and 3500 series trucks ranging from 2013 to 2023. Unlike the GNG kit, which flips away, the RBoand unit is a permanent fixture in the bed, featuring a 2-5/16 inch hitch ball that stays in place. This design choice appeals to drivers who tow frequently and do not mind the ball occupying the hole because they prioritize having a secure, high-capacity connection point ready at all times.
What sets this unit apart is its sheer lifting power and comprehensive hardware list. These figures indicate a serious commitment to heavy-duty performance, making it suitable for pulling large livestock trailers, horse trailers, or massive construction equipment. To support this load, the kit includes everything required for a full setup: the main ball, two chain anchors for securing cargo, and a rubber hole cover to protect the bed when the ball is not in use (though the design implies the ball remains seated). The inclusion of chain anchors is a significant detail, as it means you can tie down your trailer or secure items within the bed more effectively without needing aftermarket add-ons.
Compatibility is another major selling point for the RBoand model. It matches several OEM part numbers, including 60618, 82213632, and various 82216057 codes, suggesting it integrates seamlessly with factory-installed gooseneck provisions. It fits both 6-1/2-foot and 8-foot beds and works across a wide range of engine options, from the 5.7L V8 to the 6.7L L6. This broad compatibility makes it a versatile choice for anyone with a Ram 2500 or 3500 from the specified years. However, because it is a fixed ball unit, it does not offer the bed-clearing benefit of the flip-up design. If you plan to haul oversized loads that need the entire floor of the truck bed, you would have to remove this ball entirely before loading, which adds a step to your routine.
• Best for Bed Storage Flexibility → GNG Gooseneck Trailer Hitch, thanks to its unique flip-up ball design that allows you to utilize the full truck bed for cargo when not towing.
• Best for Complete Hardware Packages → RBoand Gooseneck Tow Hitch, as it comes with chain anchors and a rubber cover included, whereas the GNG focuses solely on the structural kit.
• Best for Specific Model Years → GNG Gooseneck Trailer Hitch is strictly for 2017-2022 Ford F-series trucks, while RBoand covers a broader 2013-2023 range for 2500/3500 models.
• Best for Ease of Installation → RBoand Gooseneck Tow Hitch, since it includes hardware for straightforward installation and matches OEM part numbers, unlike the GNG which lacks a manual and recommends pro installation.
• Best for Aesthetic Integration → GNG Gooseneck Trailer Hitch offers a sleek look when the ball is flipped down, hiding the hardware completely inside the bed.
• Best for Versatility Across Engines → RBoand Gooseneck Tow Hitch, compatible with multiple engine types including V8 and L6 configurations.
After analyzing the specifications and intended use cases for both units, I would buy the RBoand Gooseneck Tow Hitch for my personal needs. While the GNG flip-up mechanism is clever, the RBoand unit offers superior peace of mind with its 30,000-pound gross weight rating and the inclusion of essential chain anchors. For someone who uses their truck primarily for serious towing, having a fixed, high-strength connection that is ready to go is far more valuable than the ability to hide the ball. That said, if you are doing something specific like for ice fishing, where you might spend long periods in the bed setting up shelters or drilling holes and need that surface completely clear of metal obstructions, the GNG becomes the smarter choice for that specific seasonal task. Ultimately, the RBoand wins on raw capability and completeness, making it the better all-around tool for a heavy-duty truck owner.
No, the RBoand hitch is designed specifically for 2500 and 3500 models from 2013 to 2023, likely targeting Ram trucks based on the engine and bed descriptions, and does not list Ford compatibility.
No, the package is complete and includes the 2-5/16 inch hitch ball, two chain anchors, and a rubber hole cover, requiring no additional purchases for basic functionality.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon and affiliated sites.
When you buy through links on this page, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon or its affiliates. This site is an independent third-party review and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Amazon or the product brands mentioned.