The B&W 1222 Turnoverball Gooseneck Hitch is a heavy-duty towing solution designed for trucks and trailers that demand reliability and durability. Installation of this hitch requires precision, adherence to safety protocols, and a clear understanding of the components and procedures involved. Based on the official instruction manual provided by B&W, this article offers a detailed, step-by-step breakdown of the installation process, along with critical safety warnings and technical specifications. The goal is to equip users with the information necessary to install the hitch correctly and safely, ensuring optimal performance and minimizing risks.
Installation Overview and Key Requirements
The installation of the B&W 1222 Turnoverball Gooseneck Hitch involves multiple steps, from preparing the vehicle to positioning and securing the hitch components. The hitch consists of several key parts, including the center section, cross members, side plates, and various bolts and spacers. A detailed parts list is included in the instruction manual, specifying the quantity and description of each component.
Prior to installation, users must ensure the vehicle is properly prepared by removing the spare tire, lowering the exhaust system, and disconnecting certain vehicle components such as the fuel pump control module and tubing brackets. It is crucial to follow the vehicle manufacturer’s guidelines when handling these components to avoid damage or personal injury.
Safety is a recurring theme in the installation process. Several warnings are included in the manual, emphasizing the risks associated with improper installation techniques, incorrect lifting methods, and failure to secure the hitch components properly. Users are strongly advised to read all warnings and instructions before proceeding.
Preparing the Vehicle for Installation
Before installing the B&W 1222 hitch, the vehicle must be lifted using appropriate equipment to allow for the installation of the hitch components under the truck bed. This step is essential because the hitch must be installed directly above the axle, where there is sufficient clearance between the bed and the axle.
The following steps are recommended during vehicle preparation:
- Remove the spare tire: This task must be completed using the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging the tire or other components.
- Lower the exhaust system: The exhaust must be moved to provide clearance for the hitch components. This is done by disconnecting the rubber hangers located at the rear of the truck.
- Unattach the fuel pump control module: This component is located on the frame inside the passenger-side wheel well and must be disconnected to allow for the installation of the crossmember.
- Detach tubing brackets and vent tube: Specific tubing brackets must be removed to make space for the hitch. This includes detaching a plastic tubing bracket and a vent tube located near the rear of the truck.
Failure to prepare the vehicle correctly can result in damage to the truck’s components or serious injury to the installer. Users are advised to use appropriate lifting equipment and to follow all safety guidelines provided in the manual.
Positioning and Installing the Center Section
The center section is a critical component of the B&W 1222 Turnoverball Gooseneck Hitch and must be positioned correctly under the truck bed. This step is one of the most challenging in the installation process and typically requires at least two people due to the weight and size of the center section.
The following steps outline the positioning of the center section:
- Prepare to position the center section: Before placing the center section into position, the exhaust system must be moved to the driver’s side to create space.
- Raise the center section: The center section is raised into position with the latch pin side facing forward and the raised portion of the center section oriented upward. It is then guided over the exhaust system.
- Move the center section: Once positioned, the center section must be moved toward the passenger side of the vehicle to ensure it clears the disconnected tubes. This may require assistance from a second person to pull down the tubes and create additional clearance.
- Rest the center section: Once the center section passes over the tubes, it is moved back toward the rear of the truck and rested on the exhaust and tubes.
Proper positioning of the center section is essential to ensure that the hitch functions correctly and that all components align as intended. Users are advised to follow the manual’s visual guides (such as Figure B1 and B2) to ensure accurate placement.
Installing Cross Members and Securing the Center Section
After the center section is in place, the next step involves installing the cross members and securing the center section to the truck frame. This step requires the use of specific bolts, spacers, and other hardware provided in the installation kit.
The following steps are recommended for installing the cross members and securing the center section:
- Prepare the cross members: The hitch cross members must be identified and prepared for installation. A 1/2″ x 1−1/2″ carriage bolt is inserted into the two top holes on each cross member.
- Position the cross members: The cross members are then positioned over the center section, ensuring they align with the truck frame.
- Secure the cross members: Bolts and spacers are used to fasten the cross members to the truck frame. This step is critical to ensuring the stability and durability of the hitch.
The installation process also includes the use of a lifting device to hold the hitch in position during part of the installation. A mechanical lifting device is available for purchase from B&W and is recommended for use during this step.
Finalizing the Installation and Preparing for Towing
Once the center section and cross members are installed, the final steps involve reattaching vehicle components and preparing the hitch for use. These steps are essential to ensure the vehicle functions correctly and the hitch is ready for towing.
The following steps outline the finalization process:
- Reattach exhaust hangers: The exhaust system must be pushed back into position and reattached using the rubber hangers. A lubricant such as soap and water is recommended to aid in the reattachment process.
- Reattach tubing brackets and vent tube: The tubing brackets and vent tube must be reinstalled in the same manner as during the preparation phase.
- Replace the spare tire: The spare tire is reinstalled under the vehicle to complete the preparation for towing.
- Retract the pin: The latch pin must be retracted by pulling the handle out all the way until it stops and then sliding it toward the cab. This position is only used when inverting the 2−5/16″ ball or installing a B&W towing accessory.
- Lubricate the 2−5/16″ ball: A light coating of grease is applied to the corners of the square shank of the 2−5/16″ ball to ensure smooth operation.
- Engage the pin: The handle is moved toward the rear of the truck until it retracts and engages the 2−5/16″ ball.
These final steps are crucial to ensuring the hitch functions correctly and that all components are securely in place. Users are advised to double-check all connections and reassembly steps to confirm the hitch is ready for use.
Safety Warnings and Precautions
Safety is a central concern during the installation and use of the B&W 1222 Turnoverball Gooseneck Hitch. The instruction manual includes several warnings to prevent accidents, injuries, and property damage.
Key safety warnings include:
- Proper lifting techniques: Hitch components are heavy and may be cumbersome to handle. Users must use proper lifting techniques and caution to avoid serious injury.
- Avoiding damage to vehicle systems: The truck’s frame rails and surrounding areas often contain fuel lines, brake lines, and electrical wires. Careful examination of these systems is necessary to prevent damage during installation.
- Clearance between the ball and truck components: Inverting the ball while hauling heavy loads may cause it to strike the truck’s differential, drive line, or other components. Users must inspect the clearance between the ball and these components to ensure proper operation.
- Epoxy usage: The epoxy packets provided in the installation kit have a 24-month shelf life. If the date code on the center box is older than 24 months, users must contact B&W for a replacement epoxy kit.
- Pin engagement: Failure of the pin to engage the ball and hitch properly could result in a loss of attachment between the trailer and the tow vehicle. Users must ensure the pin is correctly engaged before use.
These warnings highlight the importance of following all safety protocols and instructions to ensure the hitch is installed and used safely. Users are strongly encouraged to read and understand all warnings before proceeding with installation or towing.
Technical Specifications and Components
The B&W 1222 Turnoverball Gooseneck Hitch includes a comprehensive list of components and hardware to facilitate installation. The instruction manual provides a detailed breakdown of each item, including its description and quantity.
The main components include:
- Mounting Kit Box (GNRM1222): This box includes driver and passenger side plates, front and rear cross members, cross member braces, and various bolts and spacers.
- Epoxy Envelope Kit: This kit includes epoxy packets, stirring sticks, and paint brushes for securing the hitch components.
- Mounting Kit Bolt Bag: This bag includes rectangular and oval frame spacers, locking straps, bolt retainers, threaded bushings, spacer rings, and a variety of carriage bolts, flat washers, lock washers, and finish nuts.
- Center Box (GNRC1252): This box includes the center section, 2−5/16″ ball, and latch pin handle.
- Safety Chain Kit Bolt Bag: This bag includes U-bolts, conical springs, lock nuts, and additional bolts for the safety chain system.
Understanding the technical specifications and components is essential for a successful installation. Users should refer to the instruction manual for a complete list and ensure all items are accounted for before beginning the installation process.
Conclusion
The B&W 1222 Turnoverball Gooseneck Hitch is a robust and reliable towing solution designed for heavy-duty use. Installation requires careful preparation, precise positioning, and strict adherence to safety protocols. The instruction manual provides detailed steps for each phase of the installation, from vehicle preparation to finalizing the hitch components.
Users must ensure all safety warnings are followed, particularly those related to lifting techniques, vehicle system integrity, and pin engagement. The technical specifications and components provided in the manual are essential for a successful installation and must be reviewed thoroughly before beginning the process.
By following the manufacturer’s guidelines and prioritizing safety, users can ensure that the B&W 1222 Turnoverball Gooseneck Hitch functions correctly and reliably for years to come.