Abstract: A retractable hitch ball for "gooseneck" type trailers is housed as a self-contained unit beneath the bed of a towing truck such as a pick-up truck. A hydraulic cylinder controlled and operated from the cab of the truck moves an elevating block relative to a pivoted lifting plate which is biased downwardly by a spring. The hitch ball has a slotted connection with the pivoted lifting plate whereby it can be elevated and lowered vertically through a provided opening in the truck bed to active and inactive positions of the hitch ball. A closure plug for the truck bed opening is provided.