RAW

I know that there are dozens of these threads, and I've read most of them.
But I still can't decide.

Maybe the DTR "collective" can guide me in my specific situation.

I now own a 2006 QuadCab, Shortbed 3500 4x4 w/6spd.
The truck has the factory tow package. I have added an A.R.E. Z-series truck cap. I also have a Tekonsha Prodigy brake controller.
For tagalong pulling, I have an air-ride hitch, rated for 2,000# tongue weight and 20,000# trailer weight (though I haven't towed more than 11,000# with it) with a 2-5/16 ball.

Most of the time, my towing consists of pulling a 5700# rated utility trailer (tagalong).

But I just purchased a new-to-me tractor. For a while, I will be towing it back and forth between my current home and my home-to-be (about 180 miles each way).
The tractor with its main implement probably weigh approx. 8000#. I'll be weighing it next week to get a more accurate number. But if I buy additional implements . . . I'd like them to fit on the trailer too.
In addition, if I ever find myself in a financial position to get another 4x4 trail-rig, I'd like to have something to haul it on.
So, while the tractor is only 60+ inches wide, a trail rig could be as much as 86 inches wide.
Based on those numbers, I think a deckover is the way to go (though a regular flatbed sure would be cheaper).

Anyway, so if I start looking for a 14000# rated, deckover trailer, I'm not sure which to get: tagalong or gooseneck. Yes, the age-old question.

I know that the gooseneck will pull better.
But . . . it means having to remove the truck-cap everytime I want to use the trailer. And installing a turnover ball in the bed.

The tagalong on the other hand would allow me to leave the cap in place. But . . . with that much weight, I'll have to upgrade my hitch AND add a weight-distribution setup.

So, which do I get? and why?

I think that removing and replacing the cap all the time would be a major PIA. And until our new house is done (which could be a while), I'll basically just be leaving the cap off indefinitely.

But the gooseneck is probably much safer. And doesn't safety trump convenience?

Hmmmmm.

Looking for opinions from other folks here. Thanks.

durasmack

I would go gooseneck on this one. Tandem 7000s or 10000s. A trailer is a long term investment, and if properly maintained will provide years of trouble free service. Get a heavily built trailer and it will take much more use and abuse.

Just my $0.019

Adam3291

My gooseneck never gets turned down in my truck, everytime I would turn it down I would need it the next day or two. The ride and pull is so much better.