If you want a lightweight, single-person solution for quick setup and removal that excels at car washing by staying out of the way when not in use, choose ANDERSEN HITCHES; if you need a permanent, factory-fitted OEM component designed specifically for a Mopar chassis without any aftermarket modification or removal hassle, choose Mopar Chrysler Genuine 82214742.
• ANDERSEN HITCHES: Its biggest strength is the aircraft-grade aluminum construction allowing one person to install or remove it in under a minute; its trade-off is the need for manual detachment if you plan to wash your vehicle or park in tight spaces where the hitch might snag.
• Mopar Chrysler Genuine 82214742: Its biggest strength is being a genuine OEM part tailored for seamless integration into specific Chrysler vehicles; its trade-off is its heavy, fixed nature which requires significant effort to move or remove entirely.
• The Pick: Choose Andersen for flexibility and ease of maintenance like car washing; choose Mopar for a set-and-forget installation on compatible trucks.
This hitch is engineered for the owner who values time and physical effort above all else. The standout feature here is the weight. That is a massive difference compared to traditional steel hitches. This low mass means you can safely lift, position, and secure the entire unit with just one hand, making the process of getting it off the truck bed something anyone can do in less than a minute. If you are someone who tows frequently but also wants to enjoy your truck as a daily driver, this is the ideal fit. You can detach it quickly, wash your truck thoroughly without worrying about water pooling around a heavy metal mount, and then snap it back on before hitting the road.
The design focuses heavily on user convenience during the hookup process itself. It features a patented remote latch cable system. This allows you to attach or unhook your fifth wheel trailer without ever having to climb into the truck bed or get down on your hands and knees in the dirt. Whether you are parked at a campsite, a job site, or a dealership lot, the ability to operate the mechanism from the cab or standing next to the tailgate is a game-changer. Additionally, the ball-funnel design ensures alignment is easy, even if your trailer ball is slightly off-center, reducing the frustration often associated with backing up a heavy load.
We compare products from their published specs and features; the verdicts below are our independent editorial opinions.
Updated: 2026-11-07 · 6 min read · Independent comparison
However, this product is not for everyone. Because it is designed to be removable, it relies on a mounting system that must be engaged and disengaged regularly. If you never intend to take the hitch off your truck, or if you live in an area where leaving a hitch exposed is a security risk, the constant removal process might feel unnecessary. If you prefer a "install once, forget forever" mentality, this modular approach might feel too much like work.
The Mopar Chrysler Genuine 82214742 serves a very different demographic: the owner of a specific Chrysler vehicle who wants a factory-perfect match. This is not an adapter kit or a universal mount; it is a dedicated fifth-wheel hitch built by the manufacturer themselves. The primary appeal here is integration. When you buy a part directly from the brand that made your truck, you are buying assurance that the fitment, the bolt patterns, and the structural requirements align exactly with the vehicle's engineering. There is no guessing whether the cross-members will line up or if the frame rails can handle the stress. It is a plug-and-play experience for those who trust the original equipment manufacturer implicitly.
For users who tow their trailers year-round and rarely, if ever, remove the hitch, this is the superior choice. It sits firmly in place, offering a sense of stability that comes from being a permanent fixture rather than a removable accessory. You do not have to worry about forgetting to lock it in place or dealing with the mechanics of a release cable every time you park. It stays put, ready for action whenever you decide to hook up. The package dimensions and weight suggest a robust, substantial build intended to withstand the rigors of towing without shifting or vibrating loose over time.
The trade-off lies in its permanence and handling. Unlike the Andersen model, this unit is not designed for quick removal. If you need to access the bed of your truck for other purposes, or if you want to wash your vehicle and ensure no water gets trapped under a heavy hitch, you cannot simply lift it off. It is a large, heavy component that likely requires two people or specialized equipment to remove entirely. This makes it less suitable for the casual user who wants to switch between hauling a camper and doing general truck maintenance or detailing. It is strictly for the dedicated tower who treats the hitch as a permanent part of their vehicle's identity.
• Best for car washing and detailed cleaning → ANDERSEN HITCHES, because you can remove the 35-pound unit in under a minute to clean underneath without obstruction.
• Best for single-person operation → ANDERSEN HITCHES, thanks to its lightweight aluminum design and remote latch cable that eliminates the need for climbing into the bed.
• Best for permanent, high-stress towing → Mopar Chrysler Genuine 82214742, as it is a fixed OEM component built for long-term stability on specific chassis.
• Best for ease of storage → ANDERSEN HITCHES, since you can take it off and store it in your garage when not in use, keeping your truck bed clear.
• Best for exact factory compatibility → Mopar Chrysler Genuine 82214742, ensuring zero guesswork regarding fitment on compatible Chrysler vehicles.
• Best for quick campsite transitions → ANDERSEN HITCHES, allowing you to unhook and move the trailer without getting dirty or wet in the mud.
• Best for maximum structural integrity → Mopar Chrysler Genuine 82214742, relying on the original manufacturer's direct engineering standards for your specific truck model.
• Best for budget-conscious versatility → ANDERSEN HITCHES, offering a wide range of utility without the commitment of a permanent installation.
In my opinion, I would buy the ANDERSEN HITCHES. While the Mopar option offers peace of mind through OEM certification, the practical benefits of the Andersen unit are too significant to ignore for most drivers. Specifically for car washing, this is a no-brainer. You can scrub the bed, clean the rails, and dry the surface completely without water pooling around a heavy, permanent fixture. That level of accessibility and the freedom to switch modes instantly makes it the smarter choice for the modern recreational traveler who wants performance without the hassle.
No, the design is specifically intended for one person to install or remove in less than five minutes using the lightweight aluminum construction and included hardware.
Yes, the Andersen Ultimate 5th wheel hitch features a new ball-funnel designed to work even with a 3-inch off-center ball for easier hook-ups.
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