Can Hitch Ball for Andersen Ultimate be Placed Behind Rear Axle of Truck

Question:

I have read as much as I could about this Hitch. One thing I dont understand: It seems once the Hitch is installed, the Ball Connection Point is a fair Distance behind the Axle. I have been told that a 5th Wheel Hitch has to be installed over or slightly in Front of the Axle. I have a Ram 1500 Quad Cab 6'4 Box. Currently I have a Husky Slider, which is very heavy. I like to switch to the Andersen 3200 as I need more Payload.

asked by: Peter

Expert Reply:

The Andersen Ultimate Connection 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch System # AM3200 referenced in your question can be used on your Ram 1500 even if the hitch ball ends up slightly behind the axle. You are indeed correct that the ideal setup is to have the pin weight from the trailer directly over or slightly in front of the rear axle on the truck but the Andersen is a unique system and the manufacturer designed the hitch with your application in mind, so using in this orientation will not be an issue.

You will not notice any difference in handling with the ball a bit behind the rear axle.

Also keep in mind that of the 9 inch offset, only 5 of the inches are coming from the offset on the hitch itself. The other 4 inches come from the adapter coupler block that is mounted to the king pin.

expert reply by: Chris R