Andersen hitch on F250 with fifth wheel prep

4x4crazy wrote:
I've been looking at hitches for a fifth wheel and out seems like the andersen hitch is the way to go. I like the idea of easily taking the hitch in and out. I have a 2017 f250 diesel with the fifth wheel prep package and I'm trying to decide on model. It looks like the ultimate model covers the pucks where I'd want to hook up the safety chains. The rail model seems like I can get the puck adaptor and tie the safety chains to. Anyone have recommendations? I'm only looking at a 10,000lb or less fifth wheel so I think either model works. I have a short bed and it seems you can put the offset to the back and not use a slider, is that right?

I went with the rail mount Andersen, and the Reese picture frame that fit the OEM fifth prep on the Ram trucks, same as the ford. I already had the picture frame, so the rail mount Andersen was the logical choice for me. I would still go that way, just don't like the gooseneck version Andersen.

With the rail mount Andersen I would go with the Reese picture frame adapter I believe its the least expensive . With a conventional hitch the Reese adapter cannot be unhooked in the pucks the hitch gets in the road to unlock, the handles, so you are unable to remove the hitch , and adapter in one unit ,if you were using a hoist. The Demco is the better choice with a conventional hitch, the locking handles can be released to enable the hitch to remain attached ,and both removed together. With the Andersen being light weight it makes no sense to remove both at the same time.

I have no issues with my short bed , and the Andersen. I have it in the offset to the rear. Plenty of clearance for turning ,and backing.

I've seen several posts where Andersen advise people they could cut holes in the AUH to access the hookups for chains.

ETA: I can't find one of those posts, but Andersen also offers this product to hook the chains to.

4x4crazy wrote:
I've been looking at hitches for a fifth wheel and out seems like the andersen hitch is the way to go. I like the idea of easily taking the hitch in and out. I have a 2017 f250 diesel with the fifth wheel prep package and I'm trying to decide on model. It looks like the ultimate model covers the pucks where I'd want to hook up the safety chains. The rail model seems like I can get the puck adaptor and tie the safety chains to. Anyone have recommendations? I'm only looking at a 10,000lb or less fifth wheel so I think either model works. I have a short bed and it seems you can put the offset to the back and not use a slider, is that right?

I think if you want to go that route check this out Resse goose-box with air ride

Sounds like a good plan. There will be other actual Andersen owners along to fill you in with their experiences with the safety hook up.

Check out for the PullRite Superlite series. Same style hitch system as the Andersen

It's two pieces but I'd be inclined to get the adapter to use with the rail mount setup. I have standard rails in my truck and I really like the way the rail mount Andersen works. Very solid and very easy to use.

You have the pucks so why not utilize them with a solid connection and not have to use adapters or rails.

jkwilson wrote:
I've seen several posts where Andersen advise people they could cut holes in the AUH to access the hookups for chains.

ETA: I can't find one of those posts, but Andersen also offers this product to hook the chains to.

Yep in fact I found an image on google of the same.

I wouldn't have thought Andersen would call for drilling but that makes sense. It actually just made it stronger by doing that.

I'm sorry...but that Aluminum makes me cringe.

Learjet wrote:
I'm sorry...but that Aluminum makes me cringe.

Careful you will get labeled as a hater or a few other nice undeserving names!