Can Hitch Ball be Greased When Using Andersen Weight Distribution System

Updated 11/03/2025 | Published 10/02/2025

Question:

I have an Anderson WDH. I am getting squeaking between the Anderson ball and trailer coupler. Ive been told not to put any grease on the ball as it could get down into the friction cone. Can just a bit of lithium or other grease be used to stop squeak? any other option? Thank you

asked by: Stuart R

Expert Reply:

Hey Stuart, unfortunately weight distribution systems do make some odd noises. Friction does a great job as a way to reduce sway but it does make a lot of noise. So with that said the friction in a weight distribution system is not intended to be between the hitch ball and the trailer coupler. Yes friction there would act as additional sway control...but creating wear in that area from excess friction will wear out parts that don't need to be. I would try a small amount of lithium grease like you mentioned to see if that helps. The least you can get by with that stops the noise will be your best option so don't be afraid to start really small and add more if needed.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Jameson C.

10/30/2025

Hey Stuart, did the small amount of lithium grease cut down the squeaking on your Andersen weight distribution hitch? Your results could really help others dealing with the same noise issue.

Stuart R.

10/30/2025

@JamesonC Hi, Yes it did. But in my conversation with Anderson, they were very adament that no grease should be used. It even says it in their documentation. They say its a greaseless hitch. The concern is the grease will work it's way down into the friction cup of the hitch. I still have been using a very samll amount and wiping down any grease working it's way down to friction cup. R/stuart

Jameson C.

10/30/2025

@StuartR That's really interesting but the coupler of your trailer isn't part of their system which is going to have it's own grease recommendations from the different manufacturer. Either way thank you for passing that along as that's really good to know.

Stuart R.

10/31/2025

@JamesonC No, they recommend no grease at all, not another type or brand. With the Anderson system , the stem of the ball is in a friction cone which is the part of the hitch the helps with sway. They say if their is grease on the the ball that works its way down into the friction cone , the sway part of the WDH can be comprimised.