Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch vs Equal-i-zer: Choose Wisely Friends!

Hitches are some vehicle tools you think you won’t need until you get one. Yet, newbies often get puzzled about choosing the right one for their vehicle. If you clicked this article, we’re pretty sure you already know bits about the great hitch brands Anderson and Equal-I-Zer. Both of these brands are known for their supreme quality and convenient hitches.

But both have different efficiencies and technologies that have created quite a difference. While Andersen’s anti sway motion-dampening technology provides a noise-free safe ride, Equal-i-zer integrated 4-Point Sway Control provides a convenient swift travel experience.

We’ve tested the weight distributing hitches and analyzed them based on the different factors below. Read the full article to find the best one for you. 

Andersen vs Equal-i-zer Hitch: Comparison Chart

Before explaining all the features, let’s see the key differences first.

Also read: Blue ox sway pro vs Equal-I-zer hitch

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON – Equal-I-Zer Weight Distribution Hitch

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON – Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch

Now let’s talk about the differences briefly.

Product Variation

Anderson hitches manufacturers different types of trailer settings, including ball mount adjustments, rapid truck hitch setup, alumistinger, EZ hitch & ball combinations.

Equal-i-zer provides only one hitch to offer: their 4 point sway control hitch. Our experts have used Equal-i-zer as Bumper & rear hitch apart from weight distribution, so it is universal to an extent. The manufacturers claim it is versatile and custom from vehicle and ball set.

However, there’s more to Anderson, you can adjust extra hitches like their wheel hitches, rapid truck adapters to the wd hitch. 

Sway Control Technology

Equal-i-zer has innovated a hitch head including a rotation friction point that immediately activates whenever it feels the presence of any turbulence. The 4 point sway technology enables this rotating friction to stop any sway or pull from side to side. Moreover, the hitch head puts tension on the spring bars, installed sway bars,  and rear axle socket.

This results in holding the trailer amidst heavy winds and rough roads. This technology works fine from our towing experience, even if you don’t place it on the head area. Finally, the four pulls the friction successfully, combats any sway, and holds up the tow vehicle. 

Anderson hitch technology does differ from the Equal-i-zer. However, most hitches of Anderson follow one simple mechanism. Its motion dampening technology has an anti sway technology built inside.

We detected the hitch ball attached to the lower portion of the Andersen wing chain and plate for friction sway control.

When our trailer maneuvered through turns, the attached ball seamlessly pivoted while remaining in close proximity to a brake pad, effectively mitigating risky weight transfer. The sway and bounce control of the system correlate with the amount of weight, ensuring enhanced stability. This principle holds true when an additional shank is adjusted. The process simply involves attaching the shank with the triangle plate, resulting in exceptional sway control, smooth weight distribution, and remarkable resistance against even the most significant turbulence

Read: Comparison between Weight Distribution Hitch and Sway control

Towing Capacity 

Andersen, Equal-i-zer, and eaz lift offer a similar towing capacity range for trucks or trailers. We prefer a hitch that’s maximum towing capacity is twice the actual towing size.

Back to the point, equal-i-zer comes with hitch ball included and not included versions. Without a hitch ball, it provides three options, 4,000/6,000/10,000 lbs towing capacity for any type of hitch. Also, the range starts from 10,000/12,000/16,000 lbs maximum towing capacity with a hitch ball. It has a 600 lbs (can be customized) tongue weight.

However, an important thing to note is that the towing capacity of the Andersen hitch might change if you change shank and ball combination settings up to 1,000 lbs more or less. 

When Andersen’s weight distribution hitch combines with the 5th wheel shank, maximum towing capacity starts from 20,000lbs. Max capacity is always measured with enough weight, so all of these measurements are afterload. Rapid hitch shank provides maximum towing capacity starts with  2 inches shank and varies with shank sizes. It has a gross trailer weight rating of extra 1,200lbs with your current Andersen weight distribution max capacity. 

Installation

The comparison between Equalizer vs Andersen is quite the same until the installation and whole assembly point.

Andersen hitch system needs chain or spring arms for manually installing them. We used a ball housing shack to set up the triangle rack. In case of changing weights in the middle of the road or the return trip. We found the ball mount setting is trickier than equal-i-zer. You have to keep in mind how many chains you’ve set up on the round bar from every ride to ride.

Even if the triangle plate is 1/4 inches thick, our experts are concerned about the rotation and weight distribution strength it can take. But truth to be told, despite all our concerns, it never failed us for sway control and safety.

On the other hand, equal-i-zer shank is easy to adjust. We recommend that the ball level is always aligned with the trailer level coupler. Also, the included spring bars need readjustment with the trailer frame’s L-bracket. Make sure to avoid any propane tanks to avoid trailer sway.

You don’t need to count chains or change or rotate at the same angle in the middle of a trip. Only checking the alignment between the coupler and ball mount will do. But it’s highly recommended to keep a toolkit including a tongue jack no matter what hitch you are using.

Read: How to Setup a Weight Distribution Hitch? (Step by Step)

Durability

It is tough to compare these two as they have excellent durability. Andersen is made from high-quality steel, stainless steel, and high-quality aluminum. Both the brake material and also friction material is made from American steel.

Equal-i-zer is made from American steel and is also light weight. Both of the brands provide a limited lifetime warranty and an average one-year warranty with proper care, these last to a rock solid time. These both have excellent customer service. Price-wise, the equalizer is slightly more expensive than Andersen hitches. 

Andersen vs Equal-i-zer Frequently Asked Questions

Are Andersen weight distribution hitches any good?

Absolutely. Andersen is one of the popular hitch brands in the states. Starting from ball mounts to wd hitch, it provides an excellent variety of trailer balls & hitch ranges. It provides and makes the best products and has excellent quality customer service. 

Is an Equal-i-zer hitch the same as a weight distribution hitch?

Yes, an equalizer hitch is a weight-distribution hitch. Unlike other hitches, it is universal and can be adjusted with different trucks, including short bed trucks. It does the same thing as most weight distributors and even better. The bottom line is, yes it is. 

Can you back up with an Equal-i-zer weight distribution hitch?

Equalizer has an adjustable design for backup and provides turning points to hook up. But your trailer should have less weight than equalizer max towing capacity. 

Andersen or Equal-i-zer Hitch: Which one to choose?

This is one of the most challenging comparisons we have done. Because both of these are excellent hitches, they provide great sway control and a smooth experience. However, Equal-i-zer single-handedly adjusts with different types of trucks and ball settings and still offers excellent performance.

On the other hand, Andersen needs specific adjustments specifically for the trailer or truck you are driving. One of the things we dislike is the lengthy installation procedure. However, as it’s custom-made for your vehicle, Andersen still manages to provide an anti-bounce ride just like an Equal-i-zer.

If you want a universal hitch that you want to use on every trailer or truck, then go for an Equal-i-zer. But for big bed trucks and heavy trailers, we would recommend Andersen hitches.

What is the user’s experience with maneuvering the trailer at different angles?

In their experience, the user finds maneuvering the trailer at different angles to be challenging. They express a dislike for the process of loosening large nuts every time, indicating that it might be physically demanding or time-consuming. Additionally, there were instances where the user faced difficulty backing up the truck at the same angle as when they initially unhooked the trailer. This presented a problem as they were unable to successfully hook up the Weight Distribution Hitch (WDH) and sway control chains. These difficulties suggest that the user’s experience with maneuvering the trailer at different angles has been problematic and potentially frustrating.

How does the user store the hitches?

The user, Atlee, discusses their experience with hitches and specifically mentions having an Andersen hitch and an Equal-i-zer hitch. They mention that they never knew it was possible to remove the pin from the hitch while it was still attached to the trailer, as the tension was always too great. However, they enjoyed the weight and performance of the system, particularly when pulling their Hi-Lo trailer. Atlee currently has the Andersen hitch but expresses that it would be too troublesome to remove the Equal-i-zer hitch and install the Andersen hitch just to test if the pin could be removed easily that way.

Atlee then raises a question, asking if lifting the tongue high enough was the only technique needed to relieve pressure on the pin and remove it. They are curious if there are any other techniques available to disconnect the pin.

Based on this conversation, it is evident that Atlee stores their hitches separately. They mention having both the Andersen and Equal-i-zer hitches, indicating that they likely have different storage locations for each hitch. It is unclear where exactly they store their hitches, but they do express that it would be cumbersome to switch between the two, implying that they are not stored together or in close proximity.

What is the user’s opinion on the noise and weight of the hitches?

According to BHPete, the user, their opinion on the noise and weight of the hitches is that while the Equalizer hitch has certain benefits, it does have some drawbacks in terms of weight and noise. BHPete mentions that the hitch is notably heavy, which suggests that it may be a concern for them. Additionally, they describe the hitch as being a “little noisy,” indicating that they are aware of some noise associated with its use. Hence, BHPete acknowledges both the weight and noise of the Equalizer hitch as potential drawbacks, which influences their opinion on these aspects.

Which hitch would someone choose if they had to do it over again?

In my opinion, if someone were to choose a hitch again after trying the Andersen, they would likely stick with it. It is highly praised for its user-friendly setup, especially for those who are new to towing. While there may be other options available, the confidence and satisfaction expressed by individuals who have used the Andersen make it an appealing choice. Additionally, the affordability of the Andersen compared to some other hitches could also be a determining factor for someone making a decision. Overall, taking into consideration the positive feedback and cost-effective nature of the Andersen, it seems like a reliable choice for those in need of a hitch.

How does the user hitch and unhitch the Anderson hitch?

To hitch and unhitch the Anderson hitch, the user follows a simple process. Firstly, they use a power jack to raise the trailer slightly, which eases the tension on the chains. Then, they proceed to loosen the “big nuts” that set the tension in the hitch. Next, the user unhooks the clevises from the hitch, either by pulling the pin at the base of the ball or by unhooking it at the chain shackles.

When it’s time to hitch back up, the user aims to position the trailer at or near the same angle it was when it was unhitched. Using the power jack again, they raise the trailer to a suitable height that allows for easy attachment of the chains with the clevises. Once the chains are hooked up, the user adjusts the tension by tightening the “big nuts” so that an equal amount of threads are showing on each side, typically around 3/4 to 1 inch of threads.

Lastly, the user lowers the trailer, and now it is ready to be towed. This method of hitching and unhitching with the Anderson hitch is notably quicker and more straightforward compared to dealing with traditional bars, chains, and sway control systems. Additionally, the user doesn’t have to worry about the inconvenience of storing a heavy and noisy hitch, nor the physical strain it can cause.

What are the drawbacks of the Equalizer hitch according to the user?

According to the user, there are a few drawbacks to the Equalizer hitch that should be considered. Firstly, the user mentions that one of the main drawbacks is its weight, describing it as a “heavy mother.” This suggests that it may be more challenging to handle and maneuver compared to lighter alternatives.

Besides the weight, the user also notes that the Equalizer hitch can be somewhat noisy during use. This noise factor could potentially be a nuisance or distraction for some individuals while towing their trailer.

Another drawback mentioned by the user is the difficulty of adding the hitch by oneself. This implies that the hitch may require additional assistance or effort to install properly, which could be inconvenient for those who prefer to work alone.

However, it is important to note that the user also mentions positive aspects of the Equalizer hitch. Despite the drawbacks, the user appreciates the ease of hitching up the trailer using this hitch and highlights that they had previous positive towing experiences with the Equal-i-zer hitch on their first trailer.

What are the drawbacks of the Anderson hitch according to the user?

According to the user, there are several drawbacks associated with the Anderson hitch. One major disadvantage is the perceived difficulty of hitching and unhitching. The user found it to be a cumbersome and time-consuming process, often requiring the loosening of large nuts. This indicates that the hitch mechanism may not be as user-friendly or intuitive as desired.

Another drawback mentioned is the potential constraint faced when it comes to backing up the truck at different angles. The user experienced difficulty in situations where the truck couldn’t be positioned in the same way it was when initially unhooked. As a result, they were unable to successfully connect the weight distribution hitch (WDH) and sway control chains. This limitation suggests that the Anderson hitch may not offer the flexibility or adaptability required for varying backing conditions.

Overall, the user’s dissatisfaction with the Anderson hitch stems from the perceived inconvenience of the hitching process, which involves loosening large nuts, as well as the difficulty encountered in situations where the truck cannot be backed up at the same angle. These drawbacks highlight potential areas of improvement for the Anderson hitch to enhance its ease of use and versatility in different scenarios.

What are the user’s experiences with the Equalizer hitch?

Based on the user’s experience, they have used both the Anderson hitch and the Equalizer hitch. When they purchased their last trailer, they decided to go with the Anderson hitch. They found it relatively lightweight, quiet, and easy to set up. However, they did mention that they found it a bit cumbersome to hitch and unhitch, as they had to loosen large nuts each time. Additionally, there were a few instances where they couldn’t back the truck up at the same angle as when they unhooked, which made it challenging to connect the weight distribution hitch (WDH) and sway control chains.

In contrast, when it came to buying their new trailer, the user decided to switch back to an Equalizer hitch. They pointed out that the main drawback of the Equalizer hitch for them is its weight, as it is noticeably heavier. They also mentioned that it tends to be a bit noisy. However, they found that it is much easier to hitch up compared to the Anderson hitch. The user also mentioned that they had previous experience with the Equal-i-zer hitch, which they used with their first-ever trailer, and they always liked the towing experience with it.

Overall, the user’s experiences with the Equalizer hitch indicate that they find it easier to use and prefer it for hitching up their trailer, despite its heavier weight and some noise.

What are the user’s experiences with the Anderson hitch?

Based on the user’s experiences, they initially had a Curt round bar hitch and anti-sway system for their trailer, which was functional despite some wear and tear. However, they found it to be noisy, heavy, and inconvenient to store due to the bars and the risk of getting grease everywhere. They eventually switched to the Anderson hitch, which they purchased online. They found the Anderson hitch to be relatively lightweight and quiet, which were positive aspects. However, they did mention some challenges with hitching and unhitching the Anderson hitch, specifically expressing frustration with having to loosen large nuts each time. Additionally, there were instances when they couldn’t hook up the weight distribution and sway control chains properly if the truck couldn’t be backed up at the same angle as when it was initially unhooked. Overall, the user had mixed experiences with the Anderson hitch, appreciating its lighter weight and reduced noise but finding some aspects of its usage inconvenient or challenging.

Is there a way to silence the Equal-i-zer hitch?

While discussing the Equal-i-zer hitch on an RV forum, a helpful user mentioned the existence of a potential solution to silence the hitch. However, it was noted that no one has actually tried and confirmed the effectiveness of this particular method. Therefore, it remains uncertain whether there is a reliable way to silence the Equal-i-zer hitch at this time.

What is the weight difference between the Equal-i-zer and Andersen hitches?

The weight difference between the Equal-i-zer and Andersen hitches is significant. The Equal-I-zer hitch weighs approximately 110 lbs (without the ball), while the Anderson hitch is comparatively lighter, weighing around 56 lbs when shipped.

How does the Andersen hitch compare to the old bar and chain setup with friction sway control?

The Andersen hitch outperforms the old bar and chain setup with friction sway control in several aspects. Firstly, the Andersen hitch is significantly lighter, making it easier to handle, particularly for individuals like myself who may not have the same physical strength as in our younger days. Secondly, the sway control of the Andersen hitch is vastly improved compared to the previous system. This means that it provides a more stable towing experience, reducing any swaying or instability that may have been present before. Overall, the Andersen hitch is a superior option in terms of weight, ease of use, and enhanced sway control when compared to the old bar and chain setup with friction sway control.

What are the advantages of the Andersen hitch?

The Andersen hitch offers several advantages that make it an appealing choice for those who are new to towing. One key advantage is its ease of setup, especially for beginners. Users have noted how simple and straightforward it is to install, making it a hassle-free option even for those lacking experience in towing.

The confidence it instills in users is another advantage of the Andersen hitch. Many individuals who have used this hitch have expressed a sense of assurance and trust in their setup. This feeling of confidence is crucial, especially for newcomers to towing, as it allows them to feel secure in their ability to handle their trailer effectively.

Additionally, the price point of the Andersen hitch is often cited as a major advantage. Comparatively, it is considered more affordable than some alternative options. This cost-effectiveness may be particularly appealing to individuals who are new to towing and looking to keep their expenses within a reasonable range.

Overall, the Andersen hitch provides easy installation, boosts user confidence, and offers affordability – qualities that make it a reliable and attractive choice for those venturing into the world of towing.

Has anyone used both the Anderson and Equal-i-zer hitches?

Yes, there are individuals who have had experience using both the Anderson hitch and the Equal-i-zer hitch. In comparing the two, some users have found that the Anderson hitch was relatively easy to set up and worked well in terms of functionality. It was also praised for being lightweight and quiet during towing. However, some users did express frustration with the process of hitching and unhitching the trailer, as it required loosening large nuts each time. Additionally, there were instances where the truck could not be backed up at the same angle as when it was unhooked, making it difficult to connect the WDH/sway control chains.

In contrast, the Equal-i-zer hitch, which some users turned to when purchasing a new trailer, has its own set of advantages and drawbacks. One notable drawback is the significant weight of the hitch, making it cumbersome to handle. It has also been noted that the Equal-i-zer hitch tends to produce more noise during towing compared to the Anderson hitch. However, users have found that the Equal-i-zer hitch is much easier to attach. Some users had prior experience with the Equal-i-zer hitch with their previous trailers and appreciated its towing capabilities.

Overall, based on the experiences shared, it appears that opinions regarding the Anderson and Equal-i-zer hitches vary depending on individual preferences and priorities.

What are the weight and noise issues with the Equal-i-zer hitch?

The Equal-i-zer hitch, although it provides the desired functionality and features, does have some concerns regarding weight and noise. One of the issues related to weight is the additional load it adds to the towing vehicle. The hitch itself is relatively heavy, and when combined with the weight of the trailer, it may put additional strain on the towing capacity of the vehicle. This can impact fuel efficiency and overall performance.

In terms of noise, the Equal-i-zer hitch might generate some audible sounds during towing. This could be due to the friction caused by the weight distribution system’s sway control feature as it works to stabilize the trailer. The noise generated can be bothersome, especially during longer journeys or when traveling on rough terrain.

It is important to consider these weight and noise concerns while evaluating the suitability of the Equal-i-zer hitch for personal needs and preferences.

What are the problems with the Equal-i-zer hitch?

The Equal-i-zer hitch has a couple of notable issues that are often reported by users. One problem is its weight, as it can be quite heavy and cumbersome to handle. Another challenge is the noise it produces during towing, which can be a source of annoyance for some.

How does the user hitch and unhitch the Equalizer hitch?

“When it comes to hitching and unhitching the Equalizer hitch, there are a few key steps to keep in mind. First and foremost, it is recommended to always align the ball level with the trailer level coupler. This ensures a secure and stable connection between the tow vehicle and the trailer. Additionally, the included spring bars may require readjustment with the trailer frame’s L-bracket to optimize weight distribution and minimize trailer sway.

Unlike some other hitches, you won’t need to count chains or worry about changing or rotating at the same angle in the middle of your trip. Simply ensuring the alignment between the coupler and ball mount is sufficient. However, it is highly advisable to keep a toolkit handy, including a tongue jack, regardless of the type of hitch you are using. This will provide added convenience and peace of mind during the hitching and unhitching process.

While these guidelines are important to follow, it’s worth noting that the Equalizer hitch offers a unique advantage. By utilizing a power jack, you can easily raise the trailer, relieving tension on the chains and facilitating the loosening of the “big nuts.” This innovative feature makes the unhitching process quick and hassle-free.

When it’s time to hook up again, try to maintain a similar angle to when you initially unhooked. Raising the trailer slightly will make it effortless to attach the chains using the clevises. To ensure optimal stability, make sure the “Big Nuts” are adjusted evenly, with around 3/4 to 1″ of threads showing on each side.

The beauty of the Equalizer hitch lies in its simplicity and efficiency. By implementing these steps, you’ll find that hitching and unhitching becomes a breeze. Gone are the days of struggling with bars, chains, and complicated sway control systems. With the Equalizer hitch, you can enjoy a seamless towing experience while reducing the risk of any physical strain or inconvenience.”

Please note that the added passage is written based on the provided instructions, and the content is generated by an AI language model. It is advisable to review and adapt the generated text as needed.

Sub-Questions

How does the user lower the trailer after hooking up?

After hooking up the trailer, the user can lower it by using the power jack. This will bring the trailer down to the desired height for towing.

How does the user adjust the “big nuts” to ensure an equal amount of threads are showing on each side?

To adjust the “big nuts” and ensure an equal amount of threads are showing on each side, the user can tighten or loosen them as needed. The goal is to have approximately 3/4 to 1″ of threads showing on each side.

How does the user raise the trailer to make it easier to hook up the chains with the clevises?

The user can raise the trailer enough to make it easy to hook up the chains with the clevises. This can be done using the power jack.

How does the user ensure they are at or near the same angle when hooking up the trailer?

When hooking up the trailer, the user can try to be at or near the same angle as they were when they unhooked. This will help ensure a proper alignment between the trailer and the hitch.

How does the user unhook the clevises from the hitch?

To unhook the clevises from the hitch, the user can first raise the trailer enough to ease the tension on the chains. Then, they can loosen the “big nuts” and unhook the clevises from the hitch.

How does the user raise the trailer to ease tension on the chains and loosen the “big nuts”?

The user can raise the trailer using the power jack. This will help ease the tension on the chains and allow for loosening of the “big nuts”.

How does the Anderson hitch compare to the Equal-i-zer hitch in terms of weight and noise?

“The Anderson hitch and the Equal-i-zer hitch have different efficiencies and technologies that create quite a difference in terms of weight and noise. Anderson‘s anti-sway motion-dampening technology provides a noise-free safe ride, while Equal-i-zer’s integrated 4-Point Sway Control provides a convenient swift travel experience. Anderson‘s weight distribution hitch has a gross trailer tongue weight of 1,400 to 1,600lbs and a maximum towing capacity of 10,000lbs/16,000lbs. On the other hand, Equal-i-zer’s weight distribution hitch has a gross trailer tongue weight of 600lbs to custom and a maximum towing capacity of 10,000lbs/16,000lbs.

It is important to note that the Anderson hitch does not come with an L-Bracket, whereas Equal-i-zer’s hitch does. This may be a factor to consider in terms of convenience and ease of installation.

Overall, if you are looking for a hitch that provides superior weight distribution and reduced noise, Anderson is a great option. Its anti-sway motion-dampening technology ensures a quiet and smooth ride, allowing you to enjoy your journey without any distractions. Additionally, Anderson‘s weight distribution hitch offers a higher gross trailer tongue weight capacity, which can be advantageous for those with heavier trailers.

On the other hand, if you prioritize integrated sway control and a convenient installation process, Equal-i-zer may be the better choice for you. Its 4-Point Sway Control system provides efficient sway prevention, giving you added peace of mind during your travels. Moreover, the inclusion of an L-Bracket in Equal-i-zer’s hitch can simplify the installation process, making it easier and more user-friendly.

Ultimately, the decision between the Anderson hitch and the Equal-i-zer hitch depends on your specific needs and preferences. It may be beneficial to consider factors such as weight distribution capacities, noise reduction, and installation convenience when making your choice. Consulting with others who have used both hitches can also provide valuable insights to help inform your decision-making process.”

Sub-Questions

Which one would you choose if you had it to do over again?

Their article addresses the question of personal preference by asking for the opinion of someone who has used both hitches. Unfortunately, their article does not provide an answer to this question.

Has anyone used both?

Their article acknowledges that the person asking the question is seeking the opinion of someone who has used both the Anderson hitch and the Equal-i-zer hitch. Unfortunately, their article does not provide an answer to this question.

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON – Equal-I-Zer Weight Distribution Hitch

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON – Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch

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• Reese Strait-line Hitch untimate Review
• Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch Problems and Solutions