Journey with Confidence RV GPS App RV Trip Planner RV LIFE Campground Reviews RV Maintenance Take a Speed Test Free 7 Day Trial ×
 

Go Back   Keystone RV Forums > Keystone Fleet | Keystone RV Models > Fifth Wheels
Click Here to Login

Closed Thread
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
 
Old 08-10-2017, 08:40 AM   #21
kfxgreenie
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Jun 2015
Location: WI
Posts: 424
Instead of these how does it work threads that turn into issues that don't exist there should just be on thread that Andersen users can go to and post the damage that the Andersen hitch has either caused to their fifth wheel, or truck. Only problem with that idea is the thread would have no activity based on real world Andersen users.
kfxgreenie is offline  
Old 08-10-2017, 09:39 AM   #22
Desert185
Senior Member
 
Desert185's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: Nevada
Posts: 2,695
Quote:
Originally Posted by kfxgreenie View Post
Instead of these how does it work threads that turn into issues that don't exist there should just be on thread that Andersen users can go to and post the damage that the Andersen hitch has either caused to their fifth wheel, or truck. Only problem with that idea is the thread would have no activity based on real world Andersen users.
Ten characters of
__________________
Desert185 🇺🇸 (Retired Chemtrail vendor)
-Ram 2500 QC, LB, 4x4, Cummins HO/exhaust brake, 6-speed stick.
-Andersen Ultimate 24K 5er Hitch.
-2014 Cougar 326SRX, Maxxis tires w/TPMS, wet bolts, two 6v batts.
-Four Wheel 8' Popup Camper.
Desert185 is offline  
Old 08-10-2017, 09:59 AM   #23
Outback 325BH
Gone Traveling
 
Join Date: May 2016
Location: Highland, IL
Posts: 512
Quote:
Originally Posted by kfxgreenie View Post
Instead of these how does it work threads that turn into issues that don't exist there should just be on thread that Andersen users can go to and post the damage that the Andersen hitch has either caused to their fifth wheel, or truck. Only problem with that idea is the thread would have no activity based on real world Andersen users.


Nothing wrong with discussing issues that some of us have with it. These issues are real and not made up.

It isn't rocket science to see how it works and forces in play.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Outback 325BH is offline  
Old 08-10-2017, 12:21 PM   #24
kfxgreenie
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Jun 2015
Location: WI
Posts: 424
Nope nothing wrong with discussing "potential" problems that don't exist for most users yet today.

From Andersen's Facebook Page. This is a response to a safety chain comment.

"We understand your concern, but our product is actually completely legal- and extremely safe. We receive this question often and there is some grey area involved in the mandatory use of safety chains with our Ultimate 5th Wheel Hitch.

Our Ultimate Connection was tested, designed and passed the certification to be classified as a 5th wheel hitch – for which the vast majority of the laws in the United States only require the break-away switch to be used as the safety system needed. The only state that we are aware of with more specific laws is Indiana, which has written the law to state that any trailer coupled via a tow ball is required to use safety chains. We offer the safety chain set as part # 3230 to satisfy the cautious towing individuals and to appease the laws of Indiana and any other state that may have the same law that we are not aware of.

We have close to 40,000 of these units out on the road today. We understand it can be deceiving due to the design. Please let us know if you have any questions, we'd love to answer them!"
kfxgreenie is offline  
Old 08-10-2017, 02:02 PM   #25
Outback 325BH
Gone Traveling
 
Join Date: May 2016
Location: Highland, IL
Posts: 512
Quote:
Originally Posted by kfxgreenie View Post
Nope nothing wrong with discussing "potential" problems that don't exist for most users yet today.

From Andersen's Facebook Page. This is a response to a safety chain comment.

"We understand your concern, but our product is actually completely legal- and extremely safe. We receive this question often and there is some grey area involved in the mandatory use of safety chains with our Ultimate 5th Wheel Hitch.

Our Ultimate Connection was tested, designed and passed the certification to be classified as a 5th wheel hitch – for which the vast majority of the laws in the United States only require the break-away switch to be used as the safety system needed. The only state that we are aware of with more specific laws is Indiana, which has written the law to state that any trailer coupled via a tow ball is required to use safety chains. We offer the safety chain set as part # 3230 to satisfy the cautious towing individuals and to appease the laws of Indiana and any other state that may have the same law that we are not aware of.

We have close to 40,000 of these units out on the road today. We understand it can be deceiving due to the design. Please let us know if you have any questions, we'd love to answer them!"


I'm not telling anyone what to do. I have just explained the issues I have with the design. No engineer has refuted anything I have said because everything I have said is true. Whether the issues I have raised would manifest into a real problem or not only time will tell, however I simply choose to not buy or use one. The issues I have raised are pretty obvious once you think about it. The design isn't deceiving it is pretty simple. Just because I (and others) have issues with the design doesn't mean we don't understand it.

Posting a boilerplate "we are legal" message from the company (who would never say anything different) means nothing to me.

YMMV.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Outback 325BH is offline  
Old 08-10-2017, 03:03 PM   #26
Desert185
Senior Member
 
Desert185's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: Nevada
Posts: 2,695
Quote:
Originally Posted by Outback 325BH View Post
I'm not telling anyone what to do. I have just explained the issues I have with the design. No engineer has refuted anything I have said because everything I have said is true. Whether the issues I have raised would manifest into a real problem or not only time will tell, however I simply choose to not buy or use one. The issues I have raised are pretty obvious once you think about it. The design isn't deceiving it is pretty simple. Just because I (and others) have issues with the design doesn't mean we don't understand it.

Posting a boilerplate "we are legal" message from the company (who would never say anything different) means nothing to me.

YMMV.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Perhaps you (or anyone on this forum) should call Jason @ Andersen and ask him to explain the process and engineering behind the hitch. I'm sure he will answer your questions.

If you are concerned about Andersen pushing the company line, all I can say is that you wouldn't call Ford concerning questions on Chevy's. Perhaps they will address your concerns to your satisfaction. I have found them to be very willing to answer questions on their product. Jason even invited me to stop by for a tour if I were in Idaho Falls and offered to take me to lunch.
__________________
Desert185 🇺🇸 (Retired Chemtrail vendor)
-Ram 2500 QC, LB, 4x4, Cummins HO/exhaust brake, 6-speed stick.
-Andersen Ultimate 24K 5er Hitch.
-2014 Cougar 326SRX, Maxxis tires w/TPMS, wet bolts, two 6v batts.
-Four Wheel 8' Popup Camper.
Desert185 is offline  
Old 08-10-2017, 04:05 PM   #27
Outback 325BH
Gone Traveling
 
Join Date: May 2016
Location: Highland, IL
Posts: 512
Quote:
Originally Posted by Desert185 View Post
Perhaps you (or anyone on this forum) should call Jason @ Andersen and ask him to explain the process and engineering behind the hitch. I'm sure he will answer your questions.



If you are concerned about Andersen pushing the company line, all I can say is that you wouldn't call Ford concerning questions on Chevy's. Perhaps they will address your concerns to your satisfaction. I have found them to be very willing to answer questions on their product. Jason even invited me to stop by for a tour if I were in Idaho Falls and offered to take me to lunch.


I have no concerns...


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Outback 325BH is offline  
Old 08-10-2017, 05:20 PM   #28
Canonman
Senior Member
 
Canonman's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2016
Location: South Jordan, Utah
Posts: 2,221
I've been following this thread for some time and I have no concerns either. Andersen is the real deal. Their products work, their engineering is sound and they have enough product out there to prove their advertising.
They will answer their phone, live, and cover any concerns about any of their products.
I like these guys! They're real honest folks who RV and use their own products.
Anyone not sure about the viability of the Andersen Ultimate hitch can buy any other product they feel is best for them.
We've been using the Andersen Ultimate for 2 seasons now and I only wish our Cougar was as well put together.
OK, Rant Ended.
Apologizes for any offenses.
Attached Thumbnails
Click image for larger version

Name:	_MG_4052 - Version 2.jpg
Views:	224
Size:	245.7 KB
ID:	13644  
__________________
2017 Cougar 279RKSWE
2007.5 Dodge Ram 2500 6.7 Cummins
Retirement Training Completed
I think the little voices in my head have started a chat group.
Canonman is offline  
Old 08-10-2017, 05:23 PM   #29
John&Genny
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Mar 2017
Location: Colbert
Posts: 248
I'm kinda surprised John (JRTJH) got into this because he closed a similar Andersen thread a couple of days ago because it was becoming argumentative. Really the way I look at it this way. We all chose the hitch we have for different reasons. You might not care for it, but that's your opinion. You are not going to convince me that your hitch is better, nor am I going to convince you that my hitch is better unless we have facts, proof, and a structual analysis of each hitch design. I don't think none of us can provide that, so what's the point? Let's just leave it at that, and keep in mind what we are really here for, to enjoy RV'ing.
__________________
2017 Avalanche 320RS 5'er
2022 Ford F-350 Lariat Ultimate with 6.7L Diesel
Andersen Ultimate 5th Wheel hitch
John&Genny is offline  
Old 08-10-2017, 07:20 PM   #30
Desert185
Senior Member
 
Desert185's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: Nevada
Posts: 2,695
Quote:
Originally Posted by John&Genny View Post
I'm kinda surprised John (JRTJH) got into this because he closed a similar Andersen thread a couple of days ago because it was becoming argumentative. Really the way I look at it this way. We all chose the hitch we have for different reasons. You might not care for it, but that's your opinion. You are not going to convince me that your hitch is better, nor am I going to convince you that my hitch is better unless we have facts, proof, and a structual analysis of each hitch design. I don't think none of us can provide that, so what's the point? Let's just leave it at that, and keep in mind what we are really here for, to enjoy RV'ing.
...and to assist folks in understanding misconceptions with facts over opinion. At least that's what I look for.
__________________
Desert185 🇺🇸 (Retired Chemtrail vendor)
-Ram 2500 QC, LB, 4x4, Cummins HO/exhaust brake, 6-speed stick.
-Andersen Ultimate 24K 5er Hitch.
-2014 Cougar 326SRX, Maxxis tires w/TPMS, wet bolts, two 6v batts.
-Four Wheel 8' Popup Camper.
Desert185 is offline  
Old 08-10-2017, 08:43 PM   #31
Alpine
Senior Member
 
Alpine's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Oregon
Posts: 783
Quote:
Originally Posted by Desert185 View Post
...and to assist folks in understanding misconceptions with facts over opinion. At least that's what I look for.
__________________


Jeff & Jan - Retired & Full-timing since 2013
2019 Ram Big Horn 3500 Aisin 4x4
2012 Alpine 3450-RL
Double Coin 235/75R-17.5/16 J rated 125lb
Alpine is offline  
Old 08-14-2017, 04:50 AM   #32
NealBlue
Member
 
Join Date: Feb 2017
Location: Checotah
Posts: 52
Quote:
Originally Posted by Desert185 View Post
"It's a 200+ pound super solid beast."

And yet, the 200#, 18K "beast" has bent the rail, while there is still no evidence of issues with the Andersen 24K hitch (aluminum or steel, ball or rail version). Plenty opinion...no evidence. I'm sure, when and if evidence appears, there will be a plethora of I told you so's.

Bingo! What he said.
__________________
2016 Keystone Laredo 5th wheel, 297SRE Andersen Ultimate
2002 Silverado Crew Cab, Duramax, Allison, 4x4
NealBlue is offline  
Old 03-31-2018, 01:24 AM   #33
tech740
Senior Member
 
tech740's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: Hemlock
Posts: 816
I have a question for those that have an Andersen ultimate hitch. When not hooked up does the ball extend above the bed rails? When not towing I like to extend my tonneau cover to keep the bed covered. Will the ball interfere with this?
Thanks
__________________
R.J. and Ginger

2019 Ram 3500 6.7 HO, Aisin Trans 3:73
Reese Goosebox
2019 Sandpiper 379FLOK
tech740 is offline  
Old 03-31-2018, 01:59 AM   #34
John&Genny
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Mar 2017
Location: Colbert
Posts: 248
Quote:
Originally Posted by tech740 View Post
I have a question for those that have an Andersen ultimate hitch. When not hooked up does the ball extend above the bed rails? When not towing I like to extend my tonneau cover to keep the bed covered. Will the ball interfere with this?
Thanks
No, at least not on my Duramax diesel. And even if it did slightly, the ball is completely removable.
__________________
2017 Avalanche 320RS 5'er
2022 Ford F-350 Lariat Ultimate with 6.7L Diesel
Andersen Ultimate 5th Wheel hitch
John&Genny is offline  
Old 03-31-2018, 02:49 AM   #35
tech740
Senior Member
 
tech740's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: Hemlock
Posts: 816
Quote:
Originally Posted by John&Genny View Post
No, at least not on my Duramax diesel. And even if it did slightly, the ball is completely removable.
Thank you for the reply. That is what I needed to know.
tech740 is offline  
Old 03-31-2018, 05:27 AM   #36
jsmith948
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Jan 2012
Location: Central San Joaguin Valley, CA
Posts: 2,117
Don't know what else to add.........Click image for larger version

Name:	HitchFail (1).jpg
Views:	429
Size:	53.1 KB
ID:	15829
__________________

Jack & Marty
2018 Laredo 298 SRL
2011 F-250 SB Crew Cab 4x4 6.7L
jsmith948 is offline  
Old 03-31-2018, 05:48 AM   #37
KOZKO
Member
 
KOZKO's Avatar
 
Join Date: Feb 2018
Location: McKeesport
Posts: 75
Quote:
Originally Posted by jsmith948 View Post
Don't know what else to add.........Attachment 15829
That is THE ONLY FAILURE EVER and there is much speculation about what happened but no proof it was a real failure of the Andersen Ultimate vs the owners failed use of it! To support the real answer of this thread is still to say my brother uses a B&W Companion and it STILL just connects to the ball in the bed! Also I guess all airplanes are bending and failing all around us because they are made of lightweight aluminum!
__________________

2018 Laredo 340FL
2017 Ram 3500 4x4 6.7L Cummins Diesel (6’4” bed)
Andersen Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection
B&W Turnoverball
JT's Strong Arm Jack Stabilizers
KOZKO is offline  
Old 03-31-2018, 05:55 AM   #38
kfxgreenie
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Jun 2015
Location: WI
Posts: 424
Quote:
Originally Posted by jsmith948 View Post
Don't know what else to add.........Attachment 15829
How about you add how this happened since you have first hand experience of a failed Andersen hitch. Also please add the companies response and how they handled the situation. Please let me know if your Rotoflex was locked out per the Andersen instructions. It sure will ease my mind knowing these facts from someone that personally has had a failed Andersen hitch.

To the newest question, yes the ball sits below the rails and a tonneau cover clears when rolled.
Attached Thumbnails
Click image for larger version

Name:	And.jpg
Views:	211
Size:	148.4 KB
ID:	15830  
kfxgreenie is offline  
Old 03-31-2018, 06:31 AM   #39
jsmith948
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Jan 2012
Location: Central San Joaguin Valley, CA
Posts: 2,117
Quote:
Originally Posted by kfxgreenie View Post
How about you add how this happened since you have first hand experience of a failed Andersen hitch. Also please add the companies response and how they handled the situation. Please let me know if your Rotoflex was locked out per the Andersen instructions. It sure will ease my mind knowing these facts from someone that personally has had a failed Andersen hitch.

To the newest question, yes the ball sits below the rails and a tonneau cover clears when rolled.
Wow...pretty defensive. BTW, I did not imply in any way that the picture I posted was of MY failed Andersen hitch. The picture I posted IS a picture of A failed Andersen hitch.
The thread is about how these hitches are secured to the truck bed and the discussion seemed to be about how secure these hitches are. So, I thought that the photo was relevant.
You can choose to ignore the photograph...it's up to you.
Personally, the kinked framework and the twisted, distorted base of the hitch tells me all I need to know.
Added: In regards to whether or not the driver turned too sharp-stopped to quick-hit a bump-passed wind while driving, etc...the hitch is either capable of carrying the weight of the camper or not. The hitch can either withstand the forces exerted on it by the trailer...or not.
__________________

Jack & Marty
2018 Laredo 298 SRL
2011 F-250 SB Crew Cab 4x4 6.7L
jsmith948 is offline  
Old 03-31-2018, 06:44 AM   #40
chuckster57
Site Team
 
chuckster57's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: Modesto
Posts: 20,238
Well, maybe it’s spring fever or cabin fever, it looks like the OP has the answer to his question. Before anybody gets off track I think it’s best to close this thread.
__________________

2012 Copper Canyon 273FWRET being towed by a 1994 Ford F350 CC,LB,Dually diesel.
Airlift 5000 bags, Prodigy brake control, 5 gauges on the pillar.Used to tow a '97 Jayco 323RKS.

Now an RVIA registered tech. Retired from Law enforcement in 2008 after 25+ yrs.
chuckster57 is online now  
Closed Thread

Tags
hitch

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Forum Jump

» Featured Campgrounds

Reviews provided by

Powered by vBadvanced CMPS v3.2.3
Disclaimer:

This website is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Keystone RV Company or any of its affiliates in any way. Keystone RV® is a registered trademark of the Keystone RV Company.


All times are GMT -8. The time now is 04:48 AM.


Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.9
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, vBulletin Solutions, Inc.