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Old 01-04-2019, 09:43 AM   #1
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Anderson vs Fifth Wheel Hitch

I have a 2017 GMC Canyon Diesel with the longer bed. I am going to purchase a 5.0 sometime this year. My question is what is the advantage to the Anderson set up vs a more standard Fifth Wheel Hitch. It seems a standard fifth wheel hitch is easier to back into.
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Old 01-04-2019, 10:20 AM   #2
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If you plan on removing it periodically the weight difference is the big thing.
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Old 01-04-2019, 10:29 AM   #3
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How is the aligning up with a crew cab?
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Old 01-04-2019, 10:49 AM   #4
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I've had both a standard 5th wheel hitch and now the Andersen, finding the Andersen much easier to hook up.

I purchased the rail system because it saved me a few bucks. If I had it to do over again I would purchase the Andersen but the gooseneck ball version.

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Old 01-04-2019, 10:54 AM   #5
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I had a crew cab Frontier and a Scamp 5er with a ball type hitch. I used the magnetic sticks with a ball on top from harbor freight. I put one on top of the ball and the other one on the trailer hitch. Using your rear view mirror back up to align the balls . When the hitch is over the ball it will knock the magnetic stick off the ball. The only thing is measure and record you trailer hitch height once you pull out to make sure your trailer is high enough to clear the ball when hitching up. It's a lot easier than dealing with a bumper hitch trailer with a cap installed and no camera. The light weight Anderson is the way to go. I had a 5th wheel Reece hitch in another truck I had to use a hyd. HF engine hoist to get the hitch in and out of the truck and I had to make a dolly for the hitch for storage.
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Old 01-04-2019, 11:09 AM   #6
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Never tried the Anderson but don't know how much easier it could be then the Patriot I have. I imagine they are both easy, once you get used to them.

When I can't manage to lift the Patriot out of the truck I'll get the Anderson. If I were doing it over, I'd get the Anderson, irregardless of it being easier or harder to connect. Mine gets heavier every year, first time I pull something it'll be gone.
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Old 01-04-2019, 11:44 AM   #7
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Saving on your payload is a major benefit also space in your truck bed.
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Old 01-04-2019, 12:19 PM   #8
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Saving on your payload is a major benefit also space in your truck bed.
Hey Chotch, Nice Photo! Thanks for including the tankard of beer for size reference
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Old 01-05-2019, 12:25 AM   #9
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While I have never used a conventional fifth wheel hitch I can say I chose the Anderson Ultimate and the B&W turnover ball:
  • to have a unobstructed bed when not using the hitch
  • better range of movement when the trailer is going down the road
  • ease of removing (less weight)

I am completely satisfied with the combo of the hitch and gooseneck ball. I am getting better lining up to the ball but I often have to make multiple adjustments. I have been impressed with the set up and how good it pulls (credit to escape also of course). I'd choose this combo again without a second thought.

Another thing to consider..I do use safety chains when hooked and they don't come with the hitch and represent an additional cost.
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Old 01-05-2019, 01:48 PM   #10
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Saving on your payload is a major benefit also space in your truck bed.
I love the cup of coffee and tape measure on the cover. My tonneau cover is often a parking spot for my coffee or water when I'm working around the yard.
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Old 01-07-2019, 08:30 AM   #11
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Thanks for all the input. I probably can't use the gooseneck adapter because I have not found a gooseneck hitch for the Canyon.
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Old 01-07-2019, 01:50 PM   #12
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Thanks for all the input. I probably can't use the gooseneck adapter because I have not found a gooseneck hitch for the Canyon.

Your only option on GMC Canyon/Colorado is universal rails for mounting any fifth wheel hitch, this will likely be true for the 2019 Ford Ranger.
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Old 01-07-2019, 06:31 PM   #13
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I have used both styles of hitches and hands down I love my Anderson. Will it cost more, yes but worth it. The huge weight reduction and having the bed of the truck clear of rails with the turn over ball is awesome. As far as lining up the hitch it is about the same once you get used to it. It pulls very nicely. Bill
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