Forum Discussion

Nevadastars's avatar
Nevadastars
Explorer
Jan 04, 2017

Anyone use the Andersen Ultimate with a short bed?

We will eventually be getting into the 5th wheel world, and would really like to use the Andersen (non-gooseneck) Ultimate hitch. Mainly because at 64 years old with a bad back, I don't want to be wrestling a 250 pound hitch in and out of my 07 Ram 2500 4x4 short bed.

I realize clearance is dependent on which particular fiver you have, but would like some real world responses from those that have one. I would just like to hear from those that actually have one in their short bed truck, Dodge if possible. Thanks in advance.
  • JIMNLIN's avatar
    JIMNLIN
    Explorer III
    Jan 04, 2017
    I realize clearance is dependent on which particular fiver you have, but would like some real world responses from those that have one. I would just like to hear from those that actually have one in their short bed truck, Dodge if possible. Thanks in advance.

    I'll repost your question for you.

    As you may know all three truck brands have a different CA (cab to axle) dimension with our short bed Dodge/Ram trucks being the shortest and GM the longest CA dimension. So replies from those with a Ford or GM simply is no help with your question.

    You may also want to ask the same question several of the many rv websites for more input from Dodge/Ram owners. Google is your friend for finding them.
  • Njmurvin's avatar
    Njmurvin
    Explorer
    Jan 04, 2017
    I'll provide a slightly different perspective. I have a Pullrite Superglide in my Dodge short bed. It's arguably the heaviest hitch made and I put it in and take it out by myself using an inexpensive electric cable hoist (from Harbor Freight) mounted to my garage rafters.
  • Nevadastars's avatar
    Nevadastars
    Explorer
    Jan 04, 2017
    Right on guys, thanks for the quick replies! I had read on etrailer.com where a guy asked if it would work on his 07 Ram like mine, and they basically answered with trying to sell him an $1100 slider hitch.
  • IdaD's avatar
    IdaD
    Explorer
    Jan 04, 2017
    I am using a rail mount Andersen in my short bed Ram and it works great. Older fiver with a flat front too. I can't turn 90 degrees backing but that's pretty worthless - it turns plenty tight without hitting and I can turn at full lock going forward with no issues. Go for it - I think it's the best rail mount hitch setup available when you consider all the factors.
  • cummins2014's avatar
    cummins2014
    Explorer
    Jan 04, 2017
    Nevadastars wrote:
    We will eventually be getting into the 5th wheel world, and would really like to use the Andersen (non-gooseneck) Ultimate hitch. Mainly because at 64 years old with a bad back, I don't want to be wrestling a 250 pound hitch in and out of my 07 Ram 2500 4x4 short bed.

    I realize clearance is dependent on which particular fiver you have, but would like some real world responses from those that have one. I would just like to hear from those that actually have one in their short bed truck, Dodge if possible. Thanks in advance.



    I think you are going to get to hear plenty about the Andersen. I too am a fan of the Andersen. I am holding out to see the new ones coming in Feb that fit the OEM puck systems on the newer trucks.

    As you said the clearance will be dependent on the fiver. Lots of fifth wheels being towed with a short bed ,and the Andersen .
  • balesfam's avatar
    balesfam
    Explorer
    Jan 04, 2017
    I have a GMC 6.5 short bed with a Andersen hitch and it is great. I used to have a slider and it was a waste of money. This is the best hitch, easy to hookup and take out. I have 90 degree turning radius.

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