How’s it work?
A weight distribution hitch uses leverage on the hitch through tensioned chains or spring bars to “distribute” more weight to the front axle of the tow vehicle. This reduces sag and gives the front tires of the tow vehicle more traction.
What makes Andersen different?
Anti-Sway:
Anti-sway is friction to dampen and reduce sway induced by outside forces such as wind gusts or passing trucks. Andersen hitches have built in anti-sway. Other hitches need an anti-sway bar added to the system. The hitch ball is physically attached to the lower wing plate and chains. As the trailer turns, the ball pivots with it and it’s sitting in a cone of friction material similar to a brake pad. The more weight on the hitch, the more anti-sway friction.
Chains vs. Spring Bars:
Chains are compact and light weight. Tension is applied easily by a few turns of a socket wrench to tighten the tension nuts. Spring bars are heavy and require a lot of force with a lever to engage.
The Andersen’s chains apply tension along the Casita’s frame, pulling forward on the bolted in brackets. Traditional spring bar set ups pull directly down on their frame brackets. In that location, the Casitas frame is weak and some owners have bent or cracked frames from tension bars.
Backing Up:
Unlike other hitches or sway bars, the Andersen can be left attached when you need to back up.
Do all vehicles need one?
If your tow vehicle is a full size or heavy duty truck, then it’s not really needed. However the typical Casita tow vehicle is lighter duty with a tow rating from 3500-7000 pounds and an Andersen can greatly improve the towing experience.
Andersen’s are such a great match for Casitas that the factory is offering them as an option.
How do I buy one?
There is a special combination of parts required for the hitch to fit properly on a Casita. Low profile brackets and extension chains are needed. Buying off the internet or RV store likely won’t get you the correct parts. Also the warranty is only valid when buying from an authorized dealer (like me).
I will walk you through the measuring steps to get the right hitch for your vehicle. I’m also available for tech support during set up and installation.
I sell factory direct. I can send you an invoice to pay online, place your order, and Andersen will ship the hitch to your address.
The 4″ or 6″ height range hitches are $599.99 and the 8″ hitch is $629.99. FREE shipping and I include the required chain extensions for free, a $47.99 value.
Contact me to order: [email protected]m
96 comments
Thanks for this WDH blog post. I purchased one directly and was given short chains. I went out and picked up extensions, but haven’t had any trips for awhile but will use your guide for help. I’ve been traveling for 4-5 years without it, hope this improves my ride/safety. Hope all is well in Italy. I had 20+ yrs in Germany US Army and did a lot of travel, some w/ a travel trailer through Italy, Spain, France, Germany.
Hi Greg,
I have a 2017 Chevy Tahoe with V8. Is an Anderson WDH needed. I’m towing a 2017 Casita 17 foot Spirit Deluxe.
It’s not “needed” on a full size truck/SUV like your Tahoe. Now if your loaded up and the rear end of the Tahoe is sagging, then yes it’ll help with that.
Actually my Tahoe sits higher. Think I’ll need a drop hitch. Not quite level…about 2-3” off
PS. Thank you for the response!
So, not “needed” but would be a good idea, yes?
Correct. The anti-sway is always a safety benefit.
Greg we are wanting to purchase a weight distribution hitch but couldn’t find a price. How much are they?
Prices are now on the website.
Would like to get price on an andersen hitch for a 17 ft Casita 2020 with a stated TW of 365#
I will send you an email.
I just sent you an email. I would really like to order one ASAP.
Thank you!
I’m looking to purchase a Casita, I have a Ram 1500 truck, I’m not sure I’ll need one. If recommended, should I get an Anderson hitch for the Casita as an add on (and expect they do this correctly) or use another source?
With a full size half-ton truck like your Ram 1500, the Andersen isn’t needed. It shines on lighter duty vehicles like small SUV where the weight squats the back. Your truck won’t even know a Casita is back there.
Hi Greg, I towing a caravan weighing 2,800 kg with a Ford Ranger. I currently use a Hayman Reece weight distributor. Would an Andersen hitch do a better job..
Cheers Rob
I would not bother changing out a spring bar system that’s already in place. The Andersen is lighter and has sway control but it won’t change the weight distribution that you already have.
Hi Greg, I have a 4.7 8 cylinder 2012 Ram 1500 2wd quad cab 3.55 Rear axle ratio. Do I need an Anderson? I had an equalizer hitch with my other camper. If not should I have a curt anti sway on each side? Or just the one that I got when I bought the 2020 Liberty deluxe used? Thanks for imput. If I need Anderson can you email me with cost?
No, a full size truck does not need an Andersen. They are really good on light duty SUV’s that sag down from the weight. Also don’t add a second sway bar, the single one works in both directions. I never ran a sway bar or WDH when towing with my F150. I used the Andersen on the Jeep Wrangler that needed it
I am towing a 2010 Casita Liberty with a 2021 Subaru Outback Onyx XT (3500 lbs towing cap.). Would the Andersen be a good investment?
Sending you an email…
First, Thank You for your service and Thank You to your wife for hers. Just bought a Vintage (2001) SD. Our first foray into Casita Life or trailers. Not having a suitable Tow Vehicle, we picked up a vintage Suburban (1500 LT). Reading through the posts above, I realize that an Anderson is overkill for my new TV. The SD is already set up with a knob for an anti-sway bar. Not having towed much of anything for years and years, I see that many people add anti-sway bars. What are your thoughts? Am I going to spend nearly as much on an anti-sway bar as an Anderson, or is there a less expensive alternative that reduces tail wagging. Perhaps you are a factory direct rep for an anti-sway bar mfg and I can buy through you. Thank you in advance. – Frank
With a full size tow vehicle like a Suburban, it won’t even know there’s a Casita back there. I personally wouldn’t even buy a sway bar for it. I never ran one with my F150. As for parts, I’m still a Andersen dealer because they drop ship direct. I had to pause my other parts distributors because they only delivered to my shop and I’m still out of the country.
Greg, do you have any experience with the Subaru Ascent? I have the tow package so I am good for #5000. I am thinking of ordering an Anderson next summer for my 2007 SD. I do get a little porpoising under certain conditions. I have a sway bar and that works great. I guess the main question would be is there benefit for my TV?
My research shows that you should NOT use a weight distribution hitch on a Subaru. The Unibody frame is not designed for it. It’s even in the owner’s manual.
Hello,
I have a 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee, Summit model and wondering if the Anderson Weight Distribution Hitch would improve towing in wind and going over bumps. I live in Wyoming, and would also need someone to install it for me. Any advice would be appreciated. Please email me at: (deleted for privacy)
Email sent!
Hey Greg! I have a 2004 4runner v8. I’m wondering if you’d recommend the Anderson for my tow vehicle. Thank you!
You’re on the border of needing one, I’ll send an email for specifics.
Thanks for the information. I have not seen that in the manual and I have been there a couple times making sure my weight and load limits are within specs. Appreciate the response.
I emailed you a screen shot from the manual. It’s specifically says to never use a WDH on a Subaru Ascent. Their unibody frame isn’t engineered for the extra stresses.
Thanks for your input on the Anderson Greg. I have a 2022 Independence on order. My tow is a 2021 Honda Ridgeline, It seems to be somewhere in the middle between the full-size truck and a smaller one. The platform is based on an SUV. I ordered a WDH but am now wondering if the Anderson would be better. I don’t get delivery until August 11, 2022, so I have time to change if I need to. Thanks.
What WDH did you order? If you’re going with a WDH, the Andersen is the best match for Casitas. You can buy it as an option from Casita. However the Ridgeline is a good match as a tow vehicle for the Casita and you can tow just fine without a WDH. You could just get the sway bar for safety and hook up is easier.
Looking at a used Toyota Venza V6 (3500 lb rating). Would this useful with a 16′ Casita 2185 dry.
I don’t recommend a weight distribution hitch for the 16′ models as they already have too little tongue weight. A Curt sway bar can be added if you are having or worried about having sway.
Thank you! This answered my question. I am purchasing a 2002 16′ Spirit and will be towing with a 2019 Volkswagen Atlas which is rated for 5000. Is a sway overkill?
No, a sway bar is not overkill. They’re great for extra safety in case of a emergency avoidance maneuver.
Hi Greg, I’ve pulled my Casita for about a thousand miles with the Andersen WDH and done fine ( older Ford ranger). After my last trip I notice that the ball assembly turns freely inside the ball housing. Do I need to replace the cone that holds the ball in place?
Thanks, Mike
If there’s no weight on the ball, it will rotate. One it has the weight of the trailer on it, it should then not rotate. Andersen will replace the liner in there if it is worn out. Contact their customer service.
Hello Greg,
I see in other posts that you mention the Anderson WDH with sway isn’t necessary when the TV is a RAM 1500. My concern is that I’ll be hauling my Suzuki DR 650 in the bed with fuel, water, generator and a few other items with me, and including myself, I’m estimating it’ll be around 800 pounds. By the way, I’ll be towing a 2022 Spirit Deluxe in April. I did order the Curt sway control, but I’m thinking that I should change to the Anderson WDH with the additional weight that will be with me while towing the Casita. What your thoughts?
Thank you. Bryce
I still don’t think it’s needed on a 1/2 ton truck. Your truck is more than capable of handling 400 pounds on the hitch and say 600 in the bed. If you get some squat, you can always put a little bit stiffer rear coil spring in there (depends on what year Ram you have). The extra work to hook and unhook the Andersen just isn’t worth it on truck. I ran no “helpers” when towing with my F150 and it didn’t care.
Hi Greg,
We are picking up a new 17′ Casita SD in March. Our tow vehicle is a 2010 Toyota 4Runner 4wd. I’ve towed an 18 1/2 ft boat and trailer (3,900 lb) a lot fairly easily with no WD system. Any recommendations regarding the need for an Anderson WD system on the Casita? Thank you.
I would say it’s not really needed. Maybe if you find with your cargo load that the truck is sagging a bunch, you can add it later. But I towed plenty with a ’08 4runner and didn’t need to address sagging. The extra few minutes saved every hitch up is probably worth it. The Andersen excels at lighter SUV’s like the highlander or smaller.
Hey Greg! How much sag would you say is acceptable in a 4th gen 4runner? I’m getting about 2” to 2 1/2” of sag in the rear. Trying to decide between a WDH, airbags with factory springs, or stiffer springs to alleviate the squat.
Thank you!
Wow 2.5″ is a lot! Personally I’d rather do airbags in the rear coil springs. Then you pump it up with a bike pump until the truck is level. The Andersen will help transfer weight forward but even with the chains cranked, I don’t think you’ll get it to raise up 2.5 inches. What’s your tongue weight?
Thanks for the quick response! 🙂 It’s probably closer to 2”, but yeah- the sag definitely feels a little much. I was thinking the same thing about the Anderson not correcting it enough. I think I’m at 300ish for tongue weight. I have a 2006 17’ Spirit Deluxe. I usually fill my 25 gallon water tank half full and load all of our gear in front of the casita axle. I’ve been weary of airbags alone as I don’t want to add more load to my rear axle, but maybe my rear axle would be fine? I might also be working with some worn out 2004 springs and replacing them would help the issue a lot as well.
Thanks again!
Hi Greg,
We recently purchased a 2017 ID, are towing with a 2021 Ridgeline. We plan to add shocks to the Casita later this month (appointment with Little Home), but also want to add an Andersen hitch. You mentioned in a previous response that the Ridgeline might only need the anti-sway? I’m ignorant enough of the whole system that I’m sure of the difference… please advise what we would need and we will order it from you pronto!
Thanks,
Bonny
They both have anti-sway, the difference is the Andersen reduces how much the tow vehicle squats when you put all the weight of the trailer on the hitch. A 1/2 ton truck doesn’t need one, but a Ridgeline could benefit from it, especially if you plan to fill the truck bed with stuff. If you travel light, then you can away with just the sway bar.
I have a 2021 Jeep Gladiator eco diesel with Firestone air bags. Will I require an Anderson hitch?
Not needed. The airbags are taking up the sag the hitch would correct. You may want a sway bar for extra safety, but that’s it.
I have a 17 ft Casita and am using an Anderson wt distribution hitch.I bought it because aI had never pulled a trailer before and I wanted to be safe.I have always pulled with my Expedition and don’t even feel the Casita behind me.When I first started using the Anderson hitch Ivwould tighten the chains to 6 rings on the bolt on both sides,that is what the factory told me to do.Now,after using it several times ,I can only tighten the chains to 4-5 rings.I don’t know why .Would anything be wrong?
I wouldn’t worry about the thread count. If it’s tight it’s fine. Over time the bushing smush a bit and maybe even the chains have settled in.
Hi. Your article states you don’t need to unhook the WDH when backing. Is that correct? That has prevented me from installing mine because, who doesn’t need to back up sometimes when maneuvering on a small street or something like that?
Correct, you can back up with the Andersen attached. No issues with that. The only “gotcha” is you want to be straight when you unhitch because you need to be at the same angle when you hook it back up. So if you’re turned, you’ll have to match that angle again when you hitch back up. So straight is easiest.
Greg, if you could help check my measurements so I order the correct hitch I would be appreciative. 1994 LD pulled by lifted Tacoma. When I picked it up and drove it home noticed sway and it may improve with some weight in the truck or the trailer but it is an uncomfortable feeling (tail wagging the dog). On level ground to bottom of the coupler is 15” and ground to inside top of receiver is 23 3/2 for 8 and 3/3 inch difference. So 8 inch drop hitch, yes?
I’m sending you an email with the measuring instructions.
Hello Greg
I have a 2016 75th anniversary jeep grand cherokee 4×4 and will be towing a forest river salem cruise lite 24rlxl model. Will an anderson wdh be useful with my setup?
I looked it up and your dry hitch weight is 550 pounds, which might be closer to 600 loaded up. You definitely want a weight distribution hitch, either the Andersen or spring bar set up.
Hello, I have a 1994 Freedom Deluxe, I believe is a 16’ since no screen on door, a/c under closet in front and bed is 45” wide, and my TV is a 2019 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off Road, do I need an Andersen Hitch and sway bar?
I would say no you don’t. The 16′ is very light on the tongue weight so it’s really not needed. You will benefit from a sway bar though, Curt makes those and any trailer or welding shop can zap on the mount for a few dollars. For other reader’s knowledge, the Andersen has built in anti-sway, so you’d never need it and a sway bar at the same time.
We have a 2019 Subaru Ascent Touring with tow pkg (5000 lb tow capacity) our Casita SD 2020 17′ is 3400 GVW loaded. We recently changed from a Dodge Dakota 4wd TV to the Subaru Ascent. I’d read that Subaru does not recommend using any WDH due to their unibody construction, but I was hoping Anderson WDH was different (it came factory installed on the Casita) I really like how the Anderson WDH almost eliminated sway on the Dodge Dakota with tow package.
I asked Anderson (given these perameters…) would it be safe to use this Anderson WDH with this particular Subaru Ascent as TV
Their answer: “This would still be okay to use where the trailer weight is below 20% of the vehicles tow capacity.” (our Casita loaded meets this criteria)
What can any of you advisce
I wouldn’t run the Andersen. Subaru is clearly specific about not using any kind of WDH. This tells us the unibody isn’t strong enough to handle the extra torsion of the WDH lifting up on the hitch to move weight to the front. Isn’t the Ascent rated for 5000 pounds? So 20% is only a 1000 pound trailer. I would pursue the Curt sway bar for extra safety and just run that.
Can you use an Anderson hitch on a 20 Pathfinder with a tow package? 4WD.
Yes you can. In fact the owner’s manual encourages using a WDH when towing with a Pathfinder.
I just ordered a WDH from Andersen. I wish I would have come across you before ordering. I asked if I needed chain extensions & was told no. Do I need to order some from you? I want to get it installed when I receive it in a few days & don’t want to have to wait for extensions if needed.
You can source your own from the hardware store. You need 3/8″ link chain, and 1/2″ link extensions. The store can cut them for you. I would get 6 links for each side. You might only need 5, the extra one can dangle or be cut off. Double check the link extension fits through the 3/8″ chain at the store before cutting it. Some brands work, some don’t.
Thank you for the reply Greg. I will get them sourced. How far back on frame from middle of coupler do I mount the brackets? Andersen website indicates between 27-30 inches. Is it different for Casitas? Thank you for help.
Yes it’s different. You want to mount the brackets between the Casita fiberglass and the propane tanks. Then you can measure how long the extensions need to be. Most likely about 11-12 inches.
Hi Greg. We have a 2023 Casita 17’ LD being delivered in August. The tow vehicle is a 2018 Tacoma TRD Sport V6 with towing package. My current plan is to have them send the Andersen WDH which I will have mounted here. I’ve been back and forth on whether or not I should buy it. The Tacoma is not considered a 1/2 ton and I’d rather take the conservative approach. Your opinion would be appreciated.
You can do either. My recommendation would be to get it. Tacoma’s can tow just fine, but they have soft rear springs and will sag. So if you don’t get the Andersen, you’ll be putting in Sumo springs or some other way to raise up the rear.
Thanks Greg. Your insight is much appreciated!
Hello, I have a 2020 Casita Spirit Deluxe with an Andersen hitch installed at the factory for my 2018 Jeep Wrangler – worked great. I just purchased a 2023 Tacoma Off Road truck and seeking advice on what mods, if any, are needed to continue using it.
The hitch sits about 1.5” lower than on the jeep. My initial thought was just to raise the ball position essentially 1 bolt, to move it to equal height as on the jeep and then use your chain tightening procedure. Does that make sense? Anything much more complicated and I will look for professional help. Appreciate your advice. – Thanks, in advance, for your time.
You can raise the hitch ball in the rack up a slot and you should be level. 2 big bolts.
Thank you Greg for all your time in answering all these questions. Great advise. I contacted you in August of ’21 about an Anderson on a Subaru Ascent. The Ascent has worked great with our SD. I have since purchased a ’23 Tacoma SR5 with 6 cylinder 3.5L engine. Would I be better towing with a WDH? I have seen advise both ways for my size trailer. Thanks for you help.
I would say yes. It’ll make a noticeable difference. The Toyota can handle the extra stress of the WDH that the Subaru cannot.
Thank you for your reply. Now, I think the 4″ or 8″ refers to the up or down location of the ball assembly. Since I haven’t even hitched up yet, would the 4″ be typical for the Taco?
Yes that’s the height adjustment range- +/- 4 inches. Most vehicles including Tacomas do fine with the 4. The 8″ is needed on mini vans or lifted trucks with big tires.
Hi, I am currently doing research on getting a 17” Casita Spirit Deluxe. I currently have a Honda 2018 CRV. The manual says it can tow up to 1500. Would I be able to pull safely with your equipment? The CRV IS NOT FWD OR AWD. If this vehicle would not work, what should I buy then to tow the Casita.
You’re going to have to trade up. You can’t tow a casita with a 1500 pound limit. 5000 rating is a safe bet.
Hi, we are looking at buying at 17’ Spirit Deluxe. We currently have a 2001 Toyota Tundra V8. Do you know if we will need the Andersen hitch?
What about a 2023 4 runner ?
I’ve had several happy 4runner customers. You have to run the hitch ball at its outer setting because of clearance issues to the spare tire behind the hitch, but it works.
Hi, my current Andersen (4” rise) measures 7” from center of pinhole to center of bolt hole where the ball attaches. I need a few more inches for clearance to lower tailgate when hooked up. I see some photos that show two pinholes for shank. Would that version be longer than 7” on the longer setup and can you tell me how much from center of pin hole to center of bolt hole? I would have thought that info would be readily available but numerous searches have all struck out. Thanks.
Hey Greg, I’m enjoying reading your advice on WD hitches. I have. 2024 Casita SD and tow it with a 2017 Ridgeline with a Curt sway bar, seems to be fine, LMK if you think that is not sufficient. Dry weight is 2600#, not sure what tongue weight is. Second, we are considering buying a 2024 KIA Telluride AWD, would that tow with just a sway bar or would we need the Andersen WDH and can it be used on the Telluride? Thanks for your help.
It depends if your Ridgeline is sagging in the back with the weight of the camper on there. Everyone packs different. If it is, then I would swap out the Andersen. If you are level, then I would tow as is. Same for the Telluride, it can also benefit from a WDH.
Hey Greg, I was just reading your Casita tips page and you mention to always leave the hidden black switch on for the water heater. I don’t always use the w.heater so I have been turning it off. Should I not and only turn off a fuse?
If you use the black switch all the time, it should be fine. It’s the “once-a-year go flip it” that will break it. In that case, I prefer to switch it at the circuit breaker.
Makes sense. Thanks
Hi Greg…I just got my hands on a ’23 17′ Casita Freedom Deluxe with 15″ wheels. I plan on pulling her with a 2020 Hyundai Palisade with no tow package or AWD. Not sure if that’s a good idea, but thinking about adding the shocks you have. Good idea? Suggestions on hitch or brake controller since I have to get those? Appreciate any reply.
I’ll send you an email- too much info to paste on the website.
Hello Greg , I’m still in the researching phase on wdh , I have a 2007 Casita SD and I hope to tow with a 2004 GMC Safari van . Towing capacity is 5000-5500 # . Is the Andersen the right hitch to use. Thank you
Yes it is. It will really help with the squat from the loaded trailer and the anti-sway is very nice to have for safety. If you’d like to order one, I can send you the measuring guide to get the correct height range.
Yes could please send me a measuring guide ?
Sent!
Thank you
Hi – appreciate all the good info here. I am purchasing a 2014 Casita LD 17’. I have a 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee with the V8 Hemi. Tow weight 7200 lbs and hitch weight 720 lbs. The trailer comes with an Anderson WDH. Will I need it do you think? If so is there a good place to find info on using and adjusting it? Many thanks!
If you already have it, I would use it. It’s safer than not having it. I’ll email you the manual.