Benefits of Slider Hitch Over Andersen Ultimate Adapter AM3200

Updated 05/20/2019 | Published 05/17/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Andersen Ultimate Connection 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch System with Adapter - 20,000 lbs

(99)

$840.06

Demco Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider - Single Jaw - Above Bed - 18,000 lbs

(711)

$1795.00

Demco Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider - Single Jaw - Above Bed - 21,000 lbs

(711)

$2173.00

Question:

I can see where this would cause the 5th wheel to ride back farther in the bed, thus giving me the turning room. But my question is how is this different than just leaving my Reese hitch all the way back in the maneuvering position? Isnt this moving the weight behind the rear axle? which is what the maneuvering position does My worry is taking weight off front end. I havent seen a good explanation for this. 2015 Ram 2500 w/ 6 1/2 ft. bed. already has standard rails installed

asked by: Dan R

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Andersen Ultimate Connection 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch # AM3200 does fit into the same industry-standard base rails as your Reese slider hitch. And though it does provide 9-inches of offset this is not the same amount of clearance you get from a slider hitch. Reese sliders like # RP30084 usually give you 10 to 12-inches of travel for making low-speed turns, and others like the 18K Demco Hijacker # DM8550034 and the 21K model # DM8550035 give you 14-inches of travel for excellent worry-free turning. For normal-speed driving both manual and automatic slider hitches should be locked in the forward position.

Unlike the Andersen adapter the better sliding hitches like the Hijackers are automatically returned to their forward locked position after your turn which keeps the trailer pin weight slightly in front of the axle, where you want it for stability during the majority of your towing time. This prevents the "nose up" concern. This is a superior and safer towing setup than the Ultimate # AM3200. And unlike a manual slider the Hijacker hitches do the work for you automatically when you make a sharp turn.

If you have a cushioned pin box like a 5th Airborne or Trailair Tri Glide you'll use a special locking plate with the Hijacker, sold separately.

expert reply by: Adam R