Why We Ditched The Andersen Hitch

Why we ditched the Andersen Hitch after our trailer was wrecked and switched to the B & W Companion hitch.
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♦️♦️ From this VIDEO ♦️♦️
Gordon explains why we chose to ditch the Andersen Hitch after our wreck in September. There were some issues with the performance of the Andersen Hitch which made him re-think the safety of the Andersen Hitch. So we chose to switch to the B & W Companion hitch instead.
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[@robzilla69]

I listened to your story and to me it sounds like the Anderson took an amazing amount of force, and didn't fail. It's your decision and I respect that. I however came away feeling way better about my Anderson than I did before. It took lots of damage and didn't fail. Thanks for sharing.

[@fiveowaf454]

I had the exact same impression from the video, who knows how any other hitch would have held up in the same accident, or what damage another hitch could have done to the frame of the truck with no ability to give and absorb some of the impact.

[@1MoreFish]

Agreed. However, I just had my (original model) Anderson Hitch fail at the weld. This caused the RV to separate on I90 and the pin box slammed on my tailgate. It then bounced off and slammed into the bed. Punctured a hole right through the bed box. Scary. Anderson Hitch has been fantastic and is covering all damages. But I'm really apprehensive now.,

[@fiveowaf454]

@@1MoreFish Ouch!! I actually think the expensive Reese Goosebox is the best overall option for the gooseneck to fifth wheel transition. I'd imagine your situation is one of those one in a million failures, but with a light weight structure there is more possibility of failure.

[@REL3712]

Dude, you were in an accident. Not sure the Andersen hitch failed you at any point. But hey, to each their own. Would be interesting to see how other hitches would have faired under the same circumstances. Still love mine. Happy camping.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Certainly understand that point of view but there is no way for a B & W to twist and have the weight off center like the Andersen did. I agree, would be interesting to know how other would hold up to an accident and hopefully I won't ever have to. Hopefully you wont ever have to find out how yours holds up. Again, just putting information out for people to think about.

[@REL3712]

@@RoamingwiththeRamsays I get it. But, hitches aren't crash tested. At any rate, thanks for your service. I too (as well as my wife) are AF vets, 28 years. 🇺🇲

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

@@REL3712 thanks for both of your service as well.

[@pipeliner345]

Totally!!

[@jamescovyeow]

A guy next to me just ditched that BW companion this week for an anderson. It was giving him a real hard time with the pin under the bed and about threw his back out carrying it back and forth trying to make it work. The anderson weighs a fraction of the BW and is rated for another 9k lbs of hauling capacity. You had and accident and there is no guarantee that ANY other hitch would have been any better.

[@randyriggs4575]

So, your Andersen hitch performed splendidly and kept the RV upright and attached to the truck under tremendous side loads. And you're mad because the hitch was damaged? Your logic seems flawed to me.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Let me guess, you have an Andersen Hitch and it's the best in the world. In these circumstances I wasn't happy. I'm the one out the cost of replacement not you. So you have your opinion and spend your money as you see fit.

[@stevecanada64]

Glad no one was hurt but, this for me tell me I made a good choice in buying an Andersen hitch.

[@josephscheneck1540]

Just saw this video now, as it just came up on my feed. Thank God you are all okay after that impact. Folks drive terribly these days and do not pay attention anymore. Actually, this is a good news story for Andersen owners. The good news is that after a very bad impact, the hitch did deform mechanically but did not fail. I would argue that is actually a desired behavior and its deformation actually absorbed a large portion of the impact to the truck and you inside the vehicle. Similar to the way modern vehicles are designed to crumple instead of transmitting the impact forces to the occupants of the vehicle. One thing to consider, as well. If the trailer flipped, the ball on the Andersen fails and acts like a mechanical fuse which allows the trailer to flip without taking the truck with it. I don't think a traditional fifth wheel hitch will mimic that behavior.

[@NYVET48TFW]

That was anything but a hard hit!

[@riccochet704]

Sounds like your hitch did exactly as it was designed to do. It absorbed a massive amount of energy during a collision and fishtail situation. I don't care what hitch you have, in an accident situation like that you are going to be replacing the hitch. The Andersen didn't fail, it did exactly as it was designed to do and kept the vehicle and trailer shiny side up. That energy has to go somewhere. With a more rigid setup it may have transferred in to the truck frame and you'd be looking at a new truck as well. Those vertical gouges on the ball are from the trailer rocking side to side as it was fishtailing. Pretty common.

[@mfstr]

So you were in a crash and you are blaming the hitch for sustaining damage?

[@mccallwd]

I'm glad that no one was injured in the accident. To be fair about the Andersen hitch you'd need to compare it to similar accidents with the other hitch types. I'm guessing the reason you bought the Andersen was because of it's light weight which provided its ease of installation and removal (saves your back) as well as its higher weight rating. It didn't fail completely and it kept the trailer attached making it able to get to a safe location. All hitches have their pros and cons, you made your decision and feel safer doing so. No one can argue with that, thanks for posting and happy camping.....

[@dudewalker3]

Your hitch was damaged in an accident, any hitch should probably be replaced. Doesn’t sound like a failure of the Anderson.

[@jessenovotny4183]

Seems to me like it's unrealistic to expect a hitch to not be damaged in an accident like yours. It's job is to keep your trailer from fishtailing out of control, which it did, no? This sounds more like a success story than a product failure. Just my 2 cents

[@PurpleCollarLife]

Thanks for sharing your experience. So far, we really like our Andersen.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Glad you like your Andersen. If it weren't for our experience and the fact we had to get a new hitch we would probably still be using it. I really did enjoy the simplicity of it.

[@dougsmith7031]

@@RoamingwiththeRamsays you should ALWAYS get a new hitch anytime you are in an accident and the insurance would cover it. Period

[@jimmywallace2687]

So... The trailer was involved in a crash that destroyed the tires and totaled the RV? The stresses that put on the hitch would have been incredible!!! Yet it stayed connected? Surprising you were able to gain control without going over and probably destroying the truck as well. Very glad no one was injured. This sounds more like an endorsement for Anderson Hitches. Hitches are like motorcycle helmets, if you're involved in a crash they should be replaced. If your 100k RV gets totaled I don't see where the 1k hitch that didn't let go would be of any concern. Wonder how the B&M would hold up in the same scenario

[@daveblankenbaker5882]

Sounds to me like the hitch saved the day!

[@billcashman4006]

I’m in the rv transport business. My company and others do not allow units to be pulled with Anderson hitches. When I first got into this business, I wondered why. Then I saw them and the failures. I’m thankful no one was hurt in your accident. That ball adapter swinging to the side could have made a dangerous situation much worse. Once it rotated, the set screws gouged the pin plate, which you took photos of. At that point they were no longer tight, which could have caused a much worse scenario..

[@danielharger203]

Ok truck and trailer were in a wreck , theres probably going to be damage, did you consider the hitch sliding 90 drgree took part of the impact and kept tou from looseing control , Ive never had a Anderson hitch and you thinking it shouldnt have any damage isnt reality.

[@LIVINGGEAR1]

We are 10 year full-timers and have used the Anderson hitch for 6 years, across the country and back several times, including towing up some steep hills. It performed flawlessly and we would never use anything less than the Anderson hitch. Easy to use, easy to hitch up and remove if needed.

[@lucvalpo2433]

I notice you didn't add that you've ever been in the same situation. I'm sure the Anderson works flawlessly for towing. However, what you were hit?

[@lucvalpo2433]

What if?

[@shornz82]

I think that regardless of damage you would probably be smart to replace hitch after an accident like this. I think the anderson hitch did a good job. The unit stayed attached and the main issues were a bent pin and the coupler rotating. You were lucky. This is typical I guess of the internet. You towed with it for a few years with no issues and loved it and than after an accident, after the side of your rig being smashed into by a car at highway speeds you abandoned it? I feel as though if I liked the hitch for a long time and then had to replace after an accident I wouldnt question the quality of the hitch. This is just my opinion and everyone makes their own decisions. Safe travels.

[@smallhousebigyard1596]

Thanks for the great video! I think the main take away is that you Did have an Accident! We totaled our 2nd RV (35' TT) by having excessive sway during a smilingly minor road emergency. So I understand the Lateral Forces that are applied on the system during an event like this. I think that you too now have a better appreciation for the types of forces that can occur during what would seem to be a minor accident. I would expect there to be "some" damage to any system.

[@knarfster]

Doesn't sound like 4 inches is a big deal to me. You did the right thing, straightened it and moved on. Sounds like the little give the coupler had might have helped the accident.

[@CampingJimmy]

Im starting to research a hitch for a new 5th wheel and gotta say, the reasoning behind swapping this out makes no sense. Involved in an accident and the only reason you are swapping the hitch out is that it rotated and you didnt notice it on first inspection. Sounds to me like the hitch performed and the the only issue is that it needed to be realigned.

[@eddieclark7025]

Glad everyone was safe from the accident. The Lord and His angels were watching over you. As you upgraded your hitch for safety reasons I would suggest upgrading your truck for the same reason. I would suggest getting a Dually to replace the single wheel rear axle. Bigger brakes, higher GVWR, and much more stable in regard to trailer sway. I used to drive a semi over the road. Many of those trucks are rated for 105,000 GVWR but are licensed for 80,000. I can’t imagine driving the same truck I used to and haul 25,000 more lbs. That’s like hauling almost twice the payload as most trucks empty weigh around 27,000. So be safe, have fun, and seriously consider getting a Dually.

[@rdrun51660]

So you got broad sided by another vehicle and the hitch did not fail. The hitch itself did not fail and you could easily fix the coupler on the road. I am still going to buy this hitch for my truck since your experience is a full testament to the strength of the Anderson hitch, especially considering it held up and your trailer did not. Thanks for the video, you really helped my decision. The only way to make this a fair comparison to have your trailer broadsided by the same car, at the same speed and see if the companion hitch would experience any damage.

[@kevinthomas8025]

I've had my Andersen for 6 years with 2 different trailers. I drove a semi for 10yrs professionally and have seen all hitch types fail. Andersen did exactly what you'd want it to, I've seen 5th wheel hitches get cut off the truck because it wouldn't release after an accident.

[@badaving70]

The hitch did what it was supposed to do, keep the trailer upright. Any damages from the accident fall under the same claim, why make a negative video? Replace the damaged parts 🤦🏽‍♂️

[@DexKoontz]

@@kevinthomas8025 I was going to purchase an Anderson. But the hitch shop recommended against it because I have GMC. They said Ford/Dodge, okay because of the crossmember location, but that the hitch would settle a dent in the bed because it was not landing above a crossmember. I would use an Anderson but for that.

[@kilo54]

It’s a pos. Fold and twist. FAILED

[@jameswagner1924]

@@DexKoontzI have a 2020 GMC single axle 1 ton short bed I pull A Lifestyle 37 ft with the Andersen and i wouldnt use anything else,its been a great hitch dont belive everything people say.

[@franka8377]

I understand your frustration, but the bottom line is you were involved in an accident. I don't believe their are any hitches out there that guaranty a damage free result to the hitch when involved in a accident. It's always unpredictable when involved in a accident.

[@georgesrisomsak9650]

Two words. Reese goosebox. The third gen is where it's at. Get a goose ball, and a goosebox. Way solid steel connection, and not some rinky dink aluminum pile that's in the way. Goosebox will change your life. Worth every single penny.

[@jimmywallace2687]

Have you also changed brands of tires due to their damage incurred during the wreck? Change trailer manufacturer also, that obviously didn't survive the crash either. That light weight Anderson hitch held on when the tires and trailer where totaled!! I'd say that was a victory for the hitch. I'm ready to go get me one just on your story.

[@chrishodapp1962]

Of course the pin was in a bind and the hitch was damaged after being in an accident….🤦🏼‍♂️🤦🏼‍♂️

[@dkhill27]

Ever since the Anderson hitch came out I have said its not durable and can't take a hit. B&W companion for the win!! Thats what I use and it's stout and not that bad to remove. Comes off in 2 pieces. I don't use the Teflon pad on the head. I just use white lithium grease in the tub not the spray.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

I have had no problems with the B&W at all.

[@ck3561]

Agreed B&W is the way to go. We have the companion with the Ford puck system. Love it and is removed by (1) person in two pieces which is incredible!

[@kevinthomas8025]

I've had my Andersen for 6 years with 2 different trailers. I drove a semi for 10yrs professionally and have seen all hitch types fail. Andersen did exactly what you'd want it to, I've seen 5th wheel hitches get cut off the truck because it wouldn't release after an accident. I'm not defending Andersen, I don't need to. I've owned a few different types of 5th wheel hitches and adapters, I stayed with Andersen due to hauling different types of trailers (including gooseneck). Attacking anyone for their personal choice is insane, no matter if this is your channel or not.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Don't think I attacked anyone in this video. Just shared my feelings about my experience. I personally could care less what hitch people use. This is me sharing my personal opinion.

[@kevinthomas8025]

@RoamingwiththeRamsays never stated that you attacked anyone in the video, you did however get a little out of hand in the comments I've read. When you post anything you have to be ready for both sides.

[@chrishodapp1962]

So the coupler rotated 90* but did not come loose or detach from the pin? Sounds like it did it’s job under the circumstances…… I don’t believe the hitch weight moving 4” as the coupler rotated created any issues at all

[@chrishodapp1962]

At 4:50 you state that “”the coupler was in position #2 because that gives me better turning radius”…. That would not be correct, Position #2 would cause greater risk of cap cab interference It is actually position #1 gives you better turn radius…

[@jplutchak44]

Maybe the movement of the coupler helped you maintain control…

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Certainly is possible.

[@meisterham23]

Recreate the wreck with the B&W hitch and do another post wreck video on that hitch. I am not criticizing B&W I am just saying coming out of wreck with trailer still attached to the tow vehicle and no damage to the tow vehicle indicates the Anderson Hitch performed as advertised. Ruining the tires on the trailer indicates the hitch was subjected to very substantial forces. You are not being fair in your comparison of hitches.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Ok so your one of those then. Only your opinion matters. It's an opinion dude, I don't care what you think. I have my opinion based on my experience. It's not a scientific test.

[@tompress9338]

@@RoamingwiththeRamsays But @meistrham23 is correct! The entire premise of your video is based on a hitch failure after an accident even though it is technically your opinion "dude." You are implying that having a BW hitch will perform better than the Andersen hitch during an accident. I agree with the majority of the post, this is really not a fare post about an Andersen hitch. You were in an accident and that is by no means a normal towing event!

[@butchgeagan9768]

Not being mean, to you, how many tons of impact force do you think you sustained? It took quite a bit to do all that damage.

[@82ndcowboy]

Still not a reason to get rid of the Anderson hitch. It held the camper to the truck during a crash. Phenomenal if you ask me. NO hitch is designed to perform perfect in a crash. Matter of fact, I would prefer the camper disconnect in the event of a rollover. That way it doesn't flip the truck over with it. Peace of mind knowing I won't flip over with it.

[@erod6214]

I have a similar hitch like the Andersen. It’s just the reversed version of it called a Pull Rite although it’s all steel. I used it for a while and liked it only drawback was I had to raise the rv a little higher to hitch/unhitch. I switched to a Demco and very pleased with it. Not bulky and easy to remove

[@donaldlajeunesse1455]

Well I did see your concerns, I also see the Andersen Hitch did its job. You where in an accident with side forces...which means anything can happen and will. From my stand point as a semi driver for 42 years my concern on side impact would be the actual pin in your coupler breaking off not the Andersen hitch. These are not commercial pin boxes and any moving side impact can be devastating. As far as the gooseneck ball...if one wanted to go the extra mile a good and willing machinist can create one from forged steel. At any rate glad no one was hurt and your back on the road.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Thanks Donald, we are very happy to be on the road and enjoying every day.

[@brianb-p6586]

What does the applicable SAE standard say about how much lateral force the pin should be able to take? I'm sure that in this collision the lateral force was not even close to that limit, because that would have rolled the truck over. The Andersen Ultimate's set screw setup is just not strong enough for events like this.

[@raymondherbst7126]

Anderson did not fail you. You were in a huge accident. Never had an issue with ours. Any hitch in that kind of impact would still have had damage. The king pin alone would be taking much of the stress and twist, turn, rotate and have other structural damage on the RV.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

I never had an issue with mine either until the accident. Maybe another hitch would also be damaged but maybe not. Can you say with certainty you know that or is that something your saying. Maybe there is a reason most 5th wheel hitches are made of thick heavy steel.

[@IdahoHobo]

An impact causing all tires to seperate tread? How that RV stayed upright is amazing. Is it possible the hitch helped, I don't know ... glad you were uninjured.

[@jamesbeech5504]

DOESN'T sound like the anderson failed. it held onto the trailer.

[@robsmith7192]

I'm dumber for knowing this. If I crash my airplane and the wings are damaged that a design flaw

[@Rottingboards]

I can't imagine the torque put on that hitch during a fish tail.

[@mikegarza1729]

The Andersen hitch did it’s job. It didn’t fail. I’m not sure I’d have to double check but I don’t think your supposed to use it with a roto flex pin box. And also Andersen has a 5 million coverage if someone has an actual failure. You never showed an actual failure in this video. It also states to retorque every so often to make sure there’s no movement.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Yeah you might want to check your info. They're is a lockout kit on the pin box which is sold by Andersen to be installed on the roto flex. I follow all suggested maintenance. Your just a fan boy who thinks it's a flawless hitch.

[@mikegarza1729]

@@RoamingwiththeRamsays the fact of the matter is the hitch didn’t fail. Bottom line. Did it break? No. Did it keep your camper connected to your truck? Correct me if I’m wrong, but I think it did. It did what it was supposed to do. Call me whatever you want. Your nothing to me.

[@mattfoley2315]

@@mikegarza1729 Your more than right,,,,sounds to me the Andersen Hitch saved him from rolling the RV and truck.. just saying

[@MYCHANNELWITHMYSTUFF]

I specifically asked Andersen Tech service and they said you are supposed to re-torque the 4 set screws before every trip. By the way, Andersen Tech support is top notch. They always get back to me within 1 day and I have never had to purchase any upgrade item from them as they improve the hitch over the years. Its all been covered under warranty.

[@johnortiz1816]

I’ve been using the Anderson hitch for about three years now I’ve always been a lil nervous about it. My issue with it is no matter how much I torch it down the hitch would always shift right and now last week I noticed the hitch ball was grinding through the kingpin adapter. I wish I could post pictures here. I don’t feel safe with the Anderson hitch anymore. Just purchased BW companion

[@TravE85]

When I bought my fifth wheel the rv dealership asked me if I tow a gooseneck often I told them yes, they said you need to go with the Anderson hitch, I told them I wanted the companion, they said it was too heavy and they did not recommend it because I couldn’t remove it by myself, I told them it didn’t matter I’d remove it with tractor if necessary, we almost got in a argument about it lol, I’ve seen the videos of punishment the Anderson can take, we know it’s buckle limits, but how do we calculate the forces applied during an accident, I feared that if I were rear ended the fifth wheel would come through the rear of my cab where my kids were, I also did not like the idea of jacking rv up that high to clear hitch, I love the companion it is a rock, and some of your fish tail could have been because of the shift of the coupler, Anderson has its place but for me B&W is the safest bet, this video just shores up my concerns

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Totally agree with you. The coupler shift was probably my biggest problem with the Andersen Hitch. Not knowing how that 4 inch shift to the side may have had an impact on the outcome of the accident was bothering. I decided that something bulky made out of thick steel may be the best way to go, and hopefully I never find out how the Companion performs during an accident.

[@MrRaysutube]

Very sad opinion lol ,it was so hard to remove the pin I had to use a hammer oh my little hands. I drove a semi for 36 years Any hitch can break, I'm sure these little toy camper ones fail alot. .

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

To each his own.

[@joshforrester4643]

I was in a head on collision Towing a 42' 5th wheel. 70 miles per hour head on Collision I had A pullrite Gooseneck Hitch The hitch suffered no damage.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Nice...

[@bloodbushcraft2467]

Thank God you're still alive after something like that

[@nickroberts4586]

In my search for a 5th wheel receiver, I'm noticing that they are made specific for certain trucks. My question then is if you use top mounted bed rails that are universal, then isn't it a moot point?

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

What are your thoughts on the Andersen Ultimate 5th Wheel Hitch?

[@mwitsnilloc]

I have a 2017 Ram 250 with the Anderson hitch. I have 90000 miles on the truck with almost 40000 miles towing my 13000 lb camper and no issues. I love the ease of the in and out of hitch out of the truck. I have not been in any accidents, but I think in your accident the hitch held up. I do agree a more substantial 5th wh hitch may handle a more severe accident. I have found that the lower pin can be hard to remove, by loosening the top bolt and the tapping with a rubber mallet seems to help make the pin easier to remove. It is important to check the torque on the king pin adapter,

[@LetsTalkGoats]

The reason of the failure was the accident not any other reason

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Right, but a failure is a failure. The design of relying on pressure from 4 set screws seems to be an issue.

[@LetsTalkGoats]

@@RoamingwiththeRamsays no it doesn’t the bolts just keeps it straight I bet with any hitch you would have some kind of damage your truck frame could of twisted and you truck would of been totaled and with most 5wheel hitches in a accident you would have that or you could of flipped. My opinion and I know you didn’t ask for it the hitch didn’t fail and from the way it shifted you wouldn’t of lost the trailer

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

@@LetsTalkGoats your right your opinion which you are entitled to. But my opinion is that it failed. As I have told others I hope we never find out who is right. So you be happy with your Andersen and I will be happy with my Companion.

[@grumpysdiy]

@@RoamingwiththeRamsays You handle dealing with "these" people better than I do on my anderson hitch video. Kudos

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

@@grumpysdiy thanks, it's a challenge.

[@sjfk1306]

Is this a serious video? Of course things shifted and bent. It would have been worse if they didn’t as that force had to go somewhere….

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Ah yes another Andersen fan boy. Hope you never have to experience the performance problems they have.

[@sjfk1306]

@@RoamingwiththeRamsays I’m not a Anderson fanboy whatsoever. I don’t even own a 5th, or a Anderson product. I just know what happens when wrecks happen….. Forces have to go somewhere. Let’s say the damage to the sides wasn’t fatal to the camper but the Anderson held firm for a second. That force that moved the Anderson would have gone into the frame of the camper and the frame of your truck, bending one or both of them. The fact that adapter slid would have made the camper and/or truck salvageable. I know the camper was a total loss but just bringing up a 100% factual point. Force and momentum need a place to go and that hitch saved it from going into the frame of your truck.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

@@sjfk1306 that is speculation at best. The force could have also transferred to the tires to cause a side slip that could absorb the force. Trying to state you know the rotation of the hitch saved the truck is ludicrous. Yes force has to go somewhere but trying to predict the outcome is not possible.

[@sjfk1306]

@@RoamingwiththeRamsays I wouldn’t say it’s speculation. It’s science. I didn’t say I know it for 100% fact but nobody can…. You can’t say for 100% certainty I’m wrong either…. Predicting the probability outcome of force is certainly possible…. It’s not ludicrous. It’s science and even sort of common sense…

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

@@sjfk1306 I think you are helping me prove my point. Maybe you should watch the video again. I said it was my opinion. Show me your scientific methods and your mathematical calculations since you are representing science. Truth is the force you are talking about found the weakest link in the chain which was the hitch.

[@the1timster]

Kinda thinking the impact could have done that also

[@Towdaddy1961]

Very well presented, You can't go wrong with the B&W, but is weights more than 35lbs :)

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Yes it does.

[@Towdaddy1961]

@@RoamingwiththeRamsays Very happy you all ok.

[@jmanyoo3305]

So you went with a hitch that has had multiple failures.. sounds like you did an awesome job

[@RandyAndrews-n8u]

You explained how you tried to remove the pin and finally had to resort to driving it out with a punch. I have seen these exact type of marks spaced just as your picture shows on aluminum balls before. They are caused by using a pipe wrench to grip the ball when tightening a traditional receiver hitch ball. You probably used a pipe wrench to "torque" back and forth in the attempt to "loosen" the pin that was stuck. If you examine the interior of the coupler on the Andersen 5th wheel adapter, you will see there is no surface that would have caused these uniformly spaced vertical marks. Please be honest, redo this video and show the exact same ball with the exact same marks and then rotate around 180 degrees and show us that there are no similar marks on the other side from other pipe wrench jaw. I don't believe you could do that. You can even see where in the attempt to torque the ball to loosen the pin you slipped down and did an exact sized bite lower on the ball. As several people have stated, this hitch survived and held through a collision and any hitch in such an accident should be replaced. My back and I will take this 38 lb. hitch over a 175 lb. piece of rust prone steel any day. Bright side is with the advertising, you probably made a few pennies on this video.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

No I didn't use a wrench. You fan boys are something else. Don't chip a tooth on that ball.

[@hoovey66]

Anything that is just snugged up with bolts and set screws will always give way especially under posters circumstance. you want something stable, then by something that is set in four corners like you just bought.

[@genemcdaniel8514]

The 5th wheel is not designed to handle a goose neck ball. Just stay with the 5th wheel plate. Safety first.

[@costa2984]

I love that little giggle near the end after spraying liberally. Clearly you two have a Lot of fun. Sorry about the accident, but also thank you for the information.

[@TonyBenton0728]

We have the B&W 25k . I would not trust the Anderson hitch because it is aluminum. Yea I get it ; it is easy to take it out and get the bed space back when not towing. The big selling point for me is you put the pin in the unlock handle to keep it from opening. A semi truck type 5 wheel hitch can open if you don’t do your due diligence about checking to see if it is closed.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

I am certainly enjoying the B&W and am happy with the switch.

[@marklesperance1129]

Well there not meant to take a blow like that I would have thought it came unhitched after that blow

[@driveman6490]

When a "set" screw becomes a "go" screw.

[@timf6916]

Good information

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Thanks Tim.

[@grumpysdiy]

The aluminum ball sheers off as well if you get side swiped on the bed of your truck. Then all that connects you is the safety chains, if the dealership sold them to you, which the dealership I had to get mine from did not.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

I did enjoy the ease and convenience, but not sold on durability.

[@ck3561]

If you can afford it or are a full timer make the investment and buy a B&W fifth wheel hitch and call it a day.

[@JohnDoe-gm5ux]

Decides Anderson was not good after accident. Puts same tires back on camper that separated when in accident and says nothing. Hmm

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Wow, I have no idea where you think you got that from. But that trailer was totaled after the accident and I never put tires on it again. So maybe put the crack pipe down while watching videos. John Doe, very original.

[@JohnDoe-gm5ux]

@@RoamingwiththeRamsays just more ridiculous ramblings. Still looking for tire video from where they fell apart. That’s what I’d be concerned about.

[@phillipc4865]

No rigid hitch of any brand for me. Only a Hensley air hitch or some type of energy absorbing hitch.

[@christhomas9837]

The only advantage I see to this Anderson hitch is putting it in and out of the truck. That is all I hear, it's only 35 pounds. How many times a year do guys put the hitch in and out. For me it's once in and once out. I have a Reese puck hitch and at 63 I still put it in and out by myself. Ya it's a struggle but not so much that I've asked for help yet. I dolly it to my tailgate and then lift it in.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Awesome..

[@cpk805LM]

Geez, leave the poor guy alone. I agree with jackknoester844 below. I also may not agree that the hitch was at fault but confidence in your setup is crucial and if he's more comfortable moving to something else, then he absolutely needs to do that. I haven't found anything of substance when I researched failure rates of the various types of hitches so can't conclusively say that I have unbiased and objective data that one hitch is better (or worse) than another. If someone can point me to some I'd love to see it. In reality the vast majority of us aren't professional hitch designers so our comments are essentially opinions and if I am able to read between the lines, that's all he's saying, in his OPINION, the hitch failed due to the accident. Let's allow him to speak his mind, we can voice our own opinions and be respectful of someone who is brave enough to put himself out on a limb like this. BTW, I use an Anderson hitch and stand by it but it pains me to see him being attacked so viciously. I'm glad you are safe, that's the most important thing. Remember, this is only MY opinion. 😊

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

@@cpk805LM thanks for your opinion.

[@richarddubois5529]

Stick with a 5th wheel, the Ford puck system is the best and was the first to come out in 2010 for the 2011 model year.

[@pyroman49wedd86]

With the Anderson hitch made out of aluminum. I see big problems if you slam your brakes or someone hits you. .

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Certainly could be. Luckily we didn't find out.

[@jeffreylight2454]

Center it and run it

[@bryanmontgomery4050]

Anderson has a huge liability waver on their hitch, they also can’t stamp it with any DOT certification because it doesn’t pass any DOT certifications. The smallest kink will comprise the structural integrity of the hitch as well.

[@OmahaWayne]

LOL, can you give us a list of all the DOT certified hitches? Hint: That number is really close to ZERO

[@georgecole1311]

I have nothing really against a Anderson , but I talked with a Lippert on different hitches and once I mentioned that I was thinking of a Andreson he advised me that once you put any type of coupler on you’re king ping you voided all warranty on your trailer hitch and all of your frame. So I went with the Blue Or 2100 Good video.. Best wishes!!

[@georgejr2640]

Just why laymen should not be giving advice like they are pros.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Yeah people shouldn't share their experiences with others, or their opinion. Take some of your own advice.

[@PaulJagerEngineering]

In-field hitch design stress test, w/detailed results and observations. I'd be concerned! (about the hitch)

[@charlesc5983]

Why didn’t you get a goose box

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

No real reason. I think coordinating the process would have been more challenging. We were in a rush and having to add it would have delayed us.

[@Mattman2500]

I take the heavy BW any day. Those Anderson hitchs seem cheap. I'd put a lot of money on the BW would not have broken.

[@F239141]

I don't know why RVers always have to waste money trying to fix things that are not broken ....... Nothing wrong with a normal 5th wheel

[@ericbeasley6322]

Sure there is. It's 200 lbs, "chucks", and takes up the whole bed. Many of us don't want those things.

[@F239141]

@@ericbeasley6322 LMAO the Anderson takes up about the same foot print as any any other fifth wheel hitch. The only way to take up less space in the bed and tow a fifth wheel is to get the gooseneck conversion.

[@ericbeasley6322]

@@F239141 or.. to remove it when needed. Like in the off-season or any other time you need your bed back. The Anderson is quick and easy to remove, unlike a 200 lb 5th wheel.

[@jimroberts1391]

I also switched from Anderson to B&W we are in agreement on that However reading through the comments and you calling everyone a name that has different opinion then you does seem a little egotistical.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Did you see what they are saying? I don't personally care what hitch people use but I have gotten sick and tired of people who want to attack me for having an opinion.

[@clarencemcgregor8568]

Nervous Nelly.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

You're one of those I see.

[@Se7enmax9]

Obviously, you didn’t do your “homework” before coupling to your trailer otherwise you woulda had a B&W rollover ball w/companion or a B&W companion that works with your factory “puck” system in the bed.

[@mikedeiana1504]

Great choice on your new hitch that Anderson hitch I don’t know but only 35 pounds it’s physics it’s not gonna last

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Thanks, I am very happy with it.

[@ffjsb]

First off, video taping on the side of the Interstate is NOT a smart move... Secondly, any time you're involved in a significant accident and towing a trailer, ANY hitch you have should be replaced. The Anderson did what it was supposed to do. but being usable after a significant accident isn't what it's supposed to do.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Another fan boy I see.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Also, I've spent plenty of time roadside as a police officer so there's that.

[@ffjsb]

@@RoamingwiththeRamsays I'm not the dumbass video taping by the interstate while traffics moving at 70mph... SMH. And point out anything that I said that was wrong.

[@ffjsb]

@@RoamingwiththeRamsays And yet in all that time as cop you didn't learn a thing... I've got 40 years in emergency services and no way in hell would I do something that dangerous.

[@matjaquier7243]

@@RoamingwiththeRamsaysI’m curious, why insult people for commenting? Massive turnoff to your channel. It’ll go into my do not recommend. Secondly did you bother to contact Anderson? Or just make this video making yourself look rather foolish. As other have stated that was a tremendous amount of force. And if you bother to look there’s videos of the very hitch you’re now using breaking. And definitely tool marks on that ball! Glad y’all were safe!

[@chicnwing4519]

I don't know the capacity of the coupler but it is about a mickey mouse looking setup, I just couldn't trust something that weak looking

[@bryanmontgomery4050]

35 pound piece of aluminum towing your 20k pound RV, you decide….

[@phillipc4865]

I'd never tow a fifth wheel without an energy absorbing/air bag equipped hitch. I don't care how much people like their Andersen or B&B. If the hitch isn't a shock absorbing one like a Hensley, forget it.

[@Dirtydigger]

Good point of the coupler shifting I would drill and tap holes in the fifth wheel plate and replace the set screws with bolts. A couple holes in the fifth wheel plate isn’t going to affect anything if you go back to a regular fifth wheel

[@RandyAndrews-n8u]

I had the same thought. The set screws work great thus far, but if I sense any loosening, I would drill and use Grade 8 bolts in their place.

[@WadeRussellSr]

Exactly what I did put side plates and bolted through the Anderson’s, Eliminates any failure of rotating.

[@dicknoble4953]

So your truck got hit from the side. Did the truck suffer any damage? Of course it did, maybe the hitch is not rated for an accident. Nor is the truck.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

Apparently you didn't watch the video the truck wasn't damaged at all.

[@67Perryb]

@@RoamingwiththeRamsays the Andersen absorbed the blow, kind of like airbags.

[@Dirtydigger]

Like I said on another video about the hitch. I would rather the hitch get damaged in an accident than have the damage done to the frame of the truck and if you didn’t notice the hitch being bent you most definitely wouldn’t notice your frame or mounting brackets

[@emerson2youfucoff]

Omg Dude please stop 🛑 this hitch didn’t mess up but your story is 100% fause

[@pyroman49wedd86]

Yea I have heard the Anderson hitch is great until there is a accident. I have heard stories of it collapsing during wrecks . That the one deal that changed my mind . I may go to the b@w. Companion

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

I truly did love it until the accident. But after the accident which I know things happen and in the end the RV did stay connected but I have a hard time believing the B&W would have failed or had an issue.

[@user-er6su5st9x]

Based on your video, the hitch did its' job very well. I don't use one but I am very familiar with them. If that hitch stayed connected, it performed very well. Your accident put pressures that are way "out of line" and it held up well. To expect no damage is a bit niev.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

I had no problem with the comment until you said niev. Can you say with certainty another hitch would also be damaged? Is it possible the design and materiel may be the reason for damage? Funny how 18 wheelers use a standard 5th wheel style hitch. But hey how would you know anyway since you've never used one.

[@user-er6su5st9x]

@@RoamingwiththeRamsays neither you nor I can predict what that hitch went through nor how any other hitch would respond given the same opportunity. But that hitch kept the trailer connected to the truck under very demanding circumstances. That hitch, as with every mechanical is expected to function as advertised in normal and usual operation. In addition under circumstances as this went through we would hope, expect that hitch

[@Jez-p9k]

Most hitches would be damaged with a side load like that. Anderson did its job. Ive been towing with this hitch for 6 years.

[@georgearnudts2577]

Well sounds like the hitch did a great job after taking a hit like that… I think you should have given that hitch a little more credit in saving your A-! My opinion.

[@NYVET48TFW]

No, he simply got lucky. He learned a valuable lesson. 5th wheel/kingpin connection is the strongest and safest method, period. That's just a fact.

[@jerrytucker9507]

I see all the comments but I can say that my brother got hit in the side of his fifth wheel and due to the standard steel fifth wheel hitch it actually pulled his truck over also and caused extensive damage and injuries. I bought an Anderson hitch due to the reasoning that if I am ever in an accident as bad as his was, I am hoping that the hitch will not pull my truck over as well. So far, it has performed flawlessly. I also re-torque before every "run" just to be on the safe side. Happy Trails to all and safe RVing.

[@Markhamsonthemove]

Imagine being mad that a hitch did its job.

[@bryansimmons20]

So couple questions. First of all it would have been just as bad as a typical 5th wheel hitch. Second the coupler would have shifted if using a standard style hitch or the anderson. Next you were involved in an accident. There is going to be failures throughout the system.

[@RoamingwiththeRamsays]

@bryansimmons20 funny, not a single question after saying a couple questions. Look this is my opinion people seem to forget it's OK for a person to have one of those. So let me repeat, this was my opinion based on my experience. If you had the same experience, you might have a completely different opinion, and that's OK.

[@jackknoester844]

I can completely understand why you published your opinion on the Anderson Hitch. Would a different hitch have made the accident avoidable? Would another hitch not sustained any damage? First let me say that I'm happy there were no serious injuries. I believe any hitch may have sustained possibly some damage due to the nature of your accident. I'm very comfortable with everything I've read and the people using the Anderson hitch that I recently purchased one myself. Can something be damaged in an accident, of course, I believe for your personal piece of mind you made the correct decision and is it possible I may change my mind, if I were in your shoes I might. I believe Anderson has come out with a very useable / safe product for many of us who do frequently require removing our hitch for necessary truck bed space. Personally I don't believe the damage sustained was due to an inferior or poorly designed product, but then again that's my opinion. I do appreciate your KZbin contribution and your opinion. Thanks

[@donstaggs3827]

My next hitch will be an Anderson. Thank you!

[@wyattybarra2236]

Lol me too

[@makingamericagreat5271]

thank you for the video. I understand this is your opinion. however, your truck and trailer was involved in an accident. these issues did not come up after "normal" use. that said, I have always questioned the king pin attachment of the Anderson hitch. Its my option that there are too many connections, which adds failure points

[@eriksrigley9026]

The hitch did its job! 😂

[@Airsoftforall]

It sounds like it absorbed impact energy. Did it fail? No. you are applying the coupler that torques down and lateral impact pushed it off axis and ten the hard braking on top. Honestly it sounds like something i would have swapped out the system as damaged due to the accident. Not hate it. Just my opinion.

[@tjjonzee]

Omg!! Get to the point!!