What version of the Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection will work for my truck and trailer?
If you are considering purchasing an Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection or Ranch Hitch Adapter for your 5th Wheel, you will want to make sure to purchase an Ultimate Connection or Ranch Hitch that is compatible for your truck, trailer, and pin box setup. Below are a few steps to help you determine which would be best.
1. Determine truck bed size and bed configuration.
Depending on the type of truck bed size and bed configuration, you will either want the Rail Version of Ultimate Connection (Part #: 3200), Gooseneck Mount (Part #: 3220), the Lowered Gooseneck Mount for flatbeds (Part#: 3221), or the Raised Gooseneck Mount (Part #3217). The Ultimate Connect Gooseneck Mount (3220) is the most common version.
2. Measure for Turning & Side Rail Clearance
As with any 5th Wheel hitch, there is a point beyond which every trailer will contact the tow vehicle. Each trailer is unique, so become familiar with your specific vehicle/trailer limitations for turning clearance and side rail clearance. With this in mind, these two diagrams (found on sections 1 and 3 of the Ultimate Connection Install Manual) will help determine an approximate turning and side rail clearance.
Turning Clearance
Side Rail Clearance
For more accurate measurements, you can refer to the Dimensions Sheets for the Ultimate Connections.
3. Check for pin box compatibility
Because there are several different variations of pin boxes, not every Andersen 5th wheel hitch will be compatible. Depending on the type of pin box you have, will determine the type of hitch that will work best for your setup. As a general rule of thumb, solid pin boxes work great and moveable pin boxes will usually need locked in place. You can find more info about this in the configuration chart.
Still not sure?
If you are having trouble determining which Andersen 5th Wheel Hitch is compatible for your setup up, email customerservice@anderseninc.com with the following info:
Truck Make, Model, & Year
Trailer/Camper
Pin box type
Truck bed size
Truck Bed Configuration