Can I weld it to the frame...? or will that damage the frame

 

its not going to hurt your frame. Although DC may not like it. There are several guys I know that have welded goosenecks in on the frame on the new generation trucks. I stuck with a bolt-in system just for warranty issues.

 

Did you drill all the way through the frame...

I tow 15000 every day just trying to figure out what will be the strongest....

 

I went with the B&W Turnover Ball. Granted I haven't used it for a G-neck trailer, I have the fifth wheel adapter for my 32' fiver. Bolted in easy enough, had to drill holes in my brand new truck bed, but a couple of hours with my brothers help and all was good.

 

Make sure you disconnect before welding to the frame too, dont want to fry the computer or any electronics...
(Some have figured it out the hard way)

 

I personally would not, just because they make kits that are even a no drill install.

My old GN was welded to the frame, and it became a PITA over time working around it.
Current truck has a B andW.

 

On the bolt on kits do you drill through the frame ?

Btw you are down the street from me.....Discovery bay here.

 

I'm no expert and have no experience, but I have always been told to never weld to these frames!

Again, I can't back up this statement. But this is the first time I've heard of welding to the frame being ok.

I would think a bolt up kit is strong enough…our axles are bolted to the truck and they hold up ok…just my uneducated, inexperienced, non-informed opinion.

Either way, good luck!

 

with the B&W, the only drilling involved is for the safety chain loops thru the bed. all the frame holes are exisating.

 

Don't forget the 4" hole for the turnover ball.....No holes in the frame+no welding ....and a good settup!

 

Ahh locals!
The B and W is a complete bolt on, the only drilling you have is a 4 inch hole in the bed, and 2 1/2 holes in the bed for the saftey chains.

 

Take Welndmns advice, no reason to frill thru frame when it is not even necessary. I put one on my old 87 and had to drill thru frame. It worked great, but now they have better stuff. Get a B&W like Welndman said and you will be totally satisfied IMO

 

Does any one know the ballpark price of a B&W installed?

 

I don't know the price, but make sure you get a competent person to put it in. My dad got one installed and they really messed up his box. (holes in the wrong spots)

 

i dont have a gooseneck, but have seen a few installed the same way as my 5th hitch. I did drill my frame, but only through one side of the box tube. Then i tigged a filler wire to the end of each grade 8 bolt, and used it to fish through the frame. Huge PITA, then held in place. With a lock washer on both sides of the frame, impacting held it all together. I was told that if i welded to the frame, i would void the warranty on the whole truck. (These dealers make me sick)