Andersen Hitch for Lightweights

ChrisGNV wrote:
Does hookup require a torque wrench, or any wrench? Or do you just lift the hitch to take enough tension off the chains to allow connecting the bottom plate, then drop it down?

I read a comment elsewhere that the Andersen can't transfer sufficient weight forward for larger loads. The figure I saw printed was not more than 50%, but I don't know the validity of the statement. If there is a limitation, at what point does it become a factor.

I'll be towing a 4,500# trailer with a Durango Hemi (2005, truck frame) and putting about 500# on the hitch. I'd like to move as much of that to the front as was shifted back by connecting the trailer. If it won't do that sufficiently, I'll have to consider a more traditional rig.

I do like the idea of it being clean and seemingly simple.

Thanks

Chris Cowles
Gainesville, FL

The Andersen hitch comes with a 1/2 inch drive socket. You need to provide a ratchet handle or breaker bar. Torque wrench is not required. For me, a long handled ratchet works best.

Lifting the hitch by itself, does not take off enough tension to drop the lower part of the hitch, you still need to loosen the compression nuts.

I think the Andersen would work fine with 500 lbs tongue weight. It works for me, and I have over 900 lbs on the tongue.