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Earlier this summer, we were sent an Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch to try. We quickly decided that this hitch was superior to our previous WDH and decided to keep it as our permanent hitch. Keep reading to learn all about this innovative weight distribution hitch.
This post is sponsored by etrailer.com. They’re my go‑to for everything RV‑related, from campsite gear to hitches and replacement parts. I’ve been ordering from them for years and always get great customer service. I especially love their detailed product descriptions and video tutorials. They make it easy to get the right gear the first time.
Contents
What Makes the Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch Different?
One of the most unique features of the Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch (WDH) is its sway control design. It doesn’t use the traditional sway bars. Instead, it uses motion-dampening chains and a sway-control ball housing system to deliver both sway and bounce control in a lightweight, easy-to-use system. Patented shock absorbers also prevent bouncing.
In addition to being lighter and easier to attach, the chains can also stay connected while campers back up their trailer. Many weight distribution hitches prohibit reversing because turning in reverse could damage the system, but the Andersen hitch can be safely used while backing into a campsite.
Another unique feature of this travel trailer hitch is the greaseless ball. The ball turns with the trailer, so there is no need for grease.
Finally, the hitch is super lightweight. The entire system weighs less than 60 pounds. After installation, there is nothing heavy to lift and no leverage bar to use, so campers don’t have to use much muscle to hitch up their trailer.
Despite being lightweight, Andersen WDH is capable of handling serious towing jobs. The highest-rated version is rated for 16,000 pounds GTW and 1,600 pounds tongue weight. These high weight capacities mean the hitch can accommodate a wide range of rigs while still providing excellent sway control and a smooth ride.
Our Review of the Andersen WDH
Our Experience Towing with the Andersen Hitch
We love our new Andersen hitch. The best thing about this hitch is the process of hitching up. With our previous WDH, it took a lot of effort to lift the spring bars with the leverage tool. I work out and lift weights regularly, and it was still challenging for me.
With the Andersen hitch, we just have to connect and tighten the chains, so the setup requires significantly less physical effort. And unhitching is just as easy; we just loosen and disconnect the chains.
Since the chains stay connected to the trailer frame, there is nothing to put away and store. With our old hitch, we had to keep the spring bars in the back of our truck while we were parked at campsites.
Towing is also great with the Andersen WDH. We have not had any issues with sway. When towing, the ride feels equally smooth, if not a bit smoother, than with our old hitch. Since installing this hitch, we have driven halfway across the country, and we have not had any issues with sway or bounce.
I also love the greaseless design, so we don’t have to worry about dirtying our hands and staining our clothes every time we put the hitch back in the receiver.
Our Experience Installing the Andersen Hitch
Overall, the installation of the Andersen WDH was easy. It took us about an hour, and the included instructions were clear and easy to understand. It is important for the truck and trailer to be level during installation, so think about where you will park before starting the installation.
There are a few tools needed for the installation. These include:
- Measuring Tape
- 5/16″ Allen Wrench
- Two 1-1/8″ Box End or Adjustable Wrenches
- Two 15/16″ Box End or Adjustable Wrenches
- Torque Wrench capable of 150 ft-lbs of torque
- 1-1/4″ Socket (included with hitch)
The most important part of the installation process was making sure we ordered the right hitch for our truck and trailer. The Andersen WDH comes in several varieties with different ball, hitch drop, and receiver sizes. We used the tool on Andersen’s website to make sure we ordered the right one.
Pros and Cons of the Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch
Pros
✅ Easy Installation
✅ Lightweight
✅ Greaseless
✅ Easy to Hitch and Unhitch
✅ Controls Sway & Bounce
Cons
❌ Not compatible with every trailer frame
❌ Need to park straight
As I have already discussed, we love this hitch because it was easy to install, easy to use, and effective. However, there are a few things travel trailer owners should be aware of before purchasing this WDH.
While the Andersen WDH comes in a variety of sizes to fit most trailer frames, it is not compatible with every trailer. Currently, the Atwood 88007, 88010, 88555, and 88600 couplers are not compatible with the Andersen WD Hitch. Campers need to check whether they have one of these couplers before installing a new hitch.
One thing we discovered about the Andersen WDH is that it is easier to rehitch if you park the truck and trailer in a straight line. If you park at a sharp angle with the sway control plate angled, you will need to hitch back up at the same angle, or you may need to remove a chain to realign the plate. Ideally, campers will just straighten up before unhitching.
Is the Andersen WDH Worth It?
So, would I recommend the Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch to other travel trailer owners? Absolutely! We love this lightweight hitch. It is so easy to connect and disconnect, which saves us time and energy on travel days.
Happy Camping!
Christina Pate is a seasoned full-time RVer who, along with her husband Justin, has journeyed across the US, Canada, and Mexico. Drawing from her extensive travels, RV repairs and RV renovations, she founded Travels with Ted to guide and inspire fellow RV enthusiasts. Christina is also the co-author of The Owner’s Guide to RV Maintenance and the creator of My RV Log Book.
