Andersen Ultimate with cracks in the aluminum above the red “funnel”

[stevedgw]

As can be seen in the attached photo, the aluminum has some cracking above where the ball is clamped. I cannot say how long it has been that way… we bought the set up (F250, Reflection 303RLS, and Anderson Ultimate) about 15 months ago, and I never noticed the cracks until now. I can’t say I have inspected it as closely before.
Does anyone have direct experience or a good sense for whether this an urgent issue?? We are traveling from Alamosa to Montrose, CO early tomorrow.
Thanks!

[JKellerJr]

As can be seen in the attached photo, the aluminum has some cracking above where the ball is clamped. I cannot say how long it has been that way… we bought the set up (F250, Reflection 303RLS, and Anderson Ultimate) about 15 months ago, and I never noticed the cracks until now. I can’t say I have inspected it as closely before.
Does anyone have direct experience or a good sense for whether this an urgent issue?? We are traveling from Alamosa to Montrose, CO early tomorrow.
Thanks!

I would call Andersen ASAP. Personally I would not pull anywhere with that unless they say it's not a problem.

[FT4NOW]

+1 on calling Andersen, they will most likely want photos and then send you a replacement. They are pretty good on customer service.

[Hoopy Frood]

In addition to the replacement, I also would want a thorough explanation of why this happened, and what to do to prevent it happening again.

[Ynot4me2]

That doesn't look safe.

[LanerC]

Holly Cow! That doesnt look good!

[SilentService]

Yikes! Going to check mine first thing tomorrow. Since the stability is compromised, DO NOT TOW! Not sure how that can happen. Looks like the ball wasn't locked and somehow was rammed very hard in the upward position.
As mentioned above, give Anderson a call and send them pictures.

[SolarPoweredRV]

As can be seen in the attached photo, the aluminum has some cracking above where the ball is clamped. I cannot say how long it has been that way… we bought the set up (F250, Reflection 303RLS, and Anderson Ultimate) about 15 months ago, and I never noticed the cracks until now. I can’t say I have inspected it as closely before.
Does anyone have direct experience or a good sense for whether this an urgent issue?? We are traveling from Alamosa to Montrose, CO early tomorrow.
Thanks!

I agree with everyone above;

DO NOT TOW

and

CALL ANDERSON...

[FT4NOW]

@stevedgw Were you able to get ahold of Andersen? If yes, did they provide any insight if you should use the hitch in that condition or what caused it?

[JM0397]

FWIW, they are based in Idaho Falls, ID, so should be a quick 1 day ship to you.
As others have said, Anderson is great with warranty & replacing parts.
I stripped one of the 40 lbs torque 1/4 hex screws that holds the funnel in place. Called Anderson to order some, they sent me a whole set for free.