The main factor that will determine your hitch size is the weight of your trailer (or towed vehicle). Make sure you also read through the Buying Guide to learn how to compare these hitches and choose the best model for your setup. Sudden turns of your steering wheel should also be avoided. Equal-i-zer 4-point Sway Control Hitch 6. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you have a trailer with a GTW of 4000 lbs, the tongue weight sits between 400 and 700 lbs. One such device relies on sliding devices called cams. These cams suspend the spring bars and lock into position. These models generally come with electronic brakes. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. The rest is up to you. These devices work by restoring balance across axles in tow vehicles and connected trailers. Best Combination Hitch. The Equal-i-zer hitch was another unit which was on our hit list due to the 4 point sway control. Expect to budget anywhere from $200 to $2,000 for a weight-distribution hitch. Something went wrong. I know the way the hitch receiver is mounted in the Yukon (middle of the bumper) it requires more drop than what my old Avalanche needed. A piece of equipment that should come to mind is a weight distributing hitch. These affiliate advertising programs are designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to partner sites. For extremely high tongue weights, the SuperHitch Magnum 30K receiver hitch with weight distribution allows a tongue weight capacity of 3,000 pounds and 2,500 pounds tongue weight carrying. Lift the coupling point where the coupler meets the trailer ball with a trailer jack. Through these connections, the spring bars are held tightly in place and the amount of tension and resistance in the system is enough to keep your trailer in line. However, it doesnt have a hitch ball and 5/8 inch pin and clip in the package. Purchasing this kit is going to be a wise decision as it provides the best value for money. Is it possible to buy a new shank for your WD hitch that will provide additional drop? In terms of the system itself, it uses chain-linked adjustable torsion bars that prevents any sway from occurring and is suitable for loads up to 15,000 LBS. The best weight distribution hitch helps reduce potential road accidents. This guarantees easy installation and removal as needed. Shank: Provides an adjustable mount that can be moved down or up to match the tow vehicle's height.. Head: Connects the spring bars to the shank.. Spring Bars: these are the tension points that do the weight distribution and help . Before anything else, ask yourself if you need a weight distribution hitch. This hitchs design also efficiently transfers the tongue weight to its axles. Sway Controls To Prevent Sway From Starting. I would like to know, if I used the higher weight hitch on a lower weight . This extra clearance will definitely come in handy if you like to travel off the beaten path. On the other hand, weight distributing hitches may have compatibility issues with some trailer and tow vehicle choices. This shank size makes it compatible with class 3, class 4, and even the heaviest of class 5 trailer hitches. Finally, your driving practices can cause your trailer to sway even if youve done everything else right. The best weight distribution hitch models come ready-to-use right out of the box. This hitch also fits taller trucks with a two-inch shank size and an 8.5-inch drop. First thing I do is adjust the ball height so that when the spring bars are installed and my truck sits level the trailer is down in the. I elected not to use a wdh because of the cost of an extended shank and ordered just sway control and an adapter ball instead. Attach the spring bar chains to the brackets, but make sure that both sides have the same distance for their vertical spacing. How does weight distribution really work? Weight distribution hitches tend to stop manual override brakes from functioning correctly. Weight Distribution Hitch. Its also possible to replace the leg screws with sturdier brackets to reduce potential dangers. This lighter weight makes the hitch and accompanying spring bars much easier to install and remove as a single person, whereas others might require at least two people for easier installation. This does not increase your payload capacity but ensures you can get the most out of your towing package. Sacrificing quality in place of saving a few bucks may result in uneven weight distribution, raising the likelihood of potential hazards happening. A weight distribution hitch with friction sway control bars requires you to get out and unhook them before reversing. Most of these hitches weight at least 100 pounds, but some are considerably heavier while others are noticeably lighter. Therere also the two trunnion bars, offering enough ground clearance. Are there ways to reduce sway without a weight distribution hitch? Also, its essential to consider the brakes on the towing vehicle. Rather than the rear axle of the tow vehicle taking on all of the weight of the trailer, a weight distribution hitch transfers the weight evenly across the frame of the trailer and the frame of the tow vehicle. Its best to avoid these issues by finding a weight-distribution hitch adequately sized for your vehicle and trailer. One characteristic to note is its sway control, allowing connected trailers to stay wobble-free during drives. The package also comes with the chains and assembly hardware needed to complete the installation. Consider whether you need to switch the hitch between different vehicles. If you do not adequately adjust your speed, heat buildup will cause them to blow down the road. But you should also be careful not to choose a hitch thats rated too high. Buying a hitch with the wrong bar length is like throwing money out the window. Another drawback to watch out for is inefficient leveling. I join Riverside Trailer as an editor, where I will be doing research for both content and reviews. Use the trailers tongue jack to make the trailer parallel to the ground. I have the 4" drop/rise for the truck and the 8" drop rise for my van. Sadly, this is the result of the "fad" of raising up the truck to look "cool", even from the factory. But going directly to the manufacturer can still be a good way to find your vehicles towing specifications if you did purchase from a private party. But when you do want to disconnect, its super easy to do so. Trailer drivers looking for a reliable anti-sway hitch may not need to look elsewhere than this kit. Connecting a trailer to a vehicle will increase the load carried by that vehicles rear. it is to truly, and precisely . The most noticeable include: Trailers at 50 percent of capacity usually benefit from using a weight distribution trailer and any loaded trailers over 5000 lbs or short wheelbase trucks and SUVs. Another benefit is the addition of trailer sway control features. With dimensions of about 30 x 13 x 12 inches, this product is one of the smaller models out there. Look for patterns and identify the experience that the majority of users are reporting. This excessive weight causes the tongue of the trailer and the rear axle of your tow vehicle to dive down together. of gross trailer weight with relatively minimal effort. Weight Distribution Hitch Drop Bramic71 Apr 5, 2022 Apr 5, 2022 #1 Bramic71 Senior Member Joined Mar 29, 2019 Posts 203 Reaction score 72 Location Pace, FL Ram Year 2016 Engine Hemi 5.7 Hello. These bearings apply pressure inside the detents in order to keep the trailer straight. This design feature creates more ground clearance and also makes them much easier to install. I couldn't find that number for an M26, but based on the axles and other data, it's probably about 9500 lb. The shank size is 2 x 2 with a 10-inch length, a 2.5-inch drop, and a 5.5-inch rise. If the measurement is negative, you need to drop the . Almost all pickup truck and SUV manufacturers require you to use a weight-distribution hitch if you tow over a certain amount.Vehicle MakeMaximum Load Without WDHFord5000Nissan5000Dodge5000Toyota5000GMC7000, This requirement is subject to change and may vary depending on your vehicle model. If you think about towing a trailer, your 4Runner's trailer hitch is basically a massive pivot point. But, its important to note that this model tends to make some noises during turns. Its another story if youre turning while reversing. I recommend this Equal-i-zer hitch if youre looking for a weight distribution hitch and sway bar that offers the best in reducing wobbles. The danger of a dive comes when you try to brake quickly. Youll know you did it properly if the components are in a straight or slightly-tilted position. I can get a 14,000 pound with 1000 to 1400 pound tongue weight. This placement of the spring bars is what keeps your trailer aligned. Continue with Recommended Cookies. If you look back at the anti sway trailer hitch reviews above, youll know that even the best kits tend to have pros and cons. Weight Distribution Shank. The package even comes with a shank and pin, unlike other hitches on the market. You can start by determining the amount of weight the additional load adds to your vehicles tow ball. This can cause several issues in other areas, potentially canceling the benefits of using a weight weight-distribution. Posts: 39. Get it by Tuesday, Sep 27. Best For Quiet Use: Husky 32218 Center Line TS with Spring Bars. We know that some of those things are hard to put a price on, and there are ways to reduce trailer sway without purchasing a weight distribution hitch. This weight distribution hitch can be a perfect gift for trailer owners in need of a safe and sturdy connection with their towing vehicles. Other styles, including 2-point, 4-point, and chain styles, do not need you to disassemble before backing up. This weight distribution hitch for travel trailer offers safe rides while providing superb weight distribution across its frame. Hence, I had to spend extra on these add-ons. Manufacturers recommend having a torque of 60 to 100 foot-pounds for your weight distribution hitch. (Things to Know), How to Winterize RV Without Antifreeze Only 3 Steps, How to Level a Travel Trailer on a Permanent Site in 7 Steps, Versatile design, works with surge brakes, The Benefits of Using Weight Distribution Hitches. If the tongue weight is too large in comparison to your gross trailer weight, the trailer will dive. But all of them will require a little bit of time and effort. Equip your tow vehicles with superior quality weight distribution hitches, and you might not go back to low-quality models again. Like other good hitch models, the metallic components of this one are finished with powder coating to length their lifespan and provide added corrosion resistance. Additionally, the air pressure of your tires can have an impact on trailer sway. Price: $438.90 Add to Cart. If your current shank only results in front of your trailer still being too high after you are loaded and ready to tow then you probably need a longer shank. The trailer will not drift even in 40mph winds. If your trailer is too heavy for the hitch, it wont be capable of properly distributing the weight. This powder coating provides an added degree of corrosion-resistance that extends the longevity of your hitch and its components. Either way, the resistance created is designed to keep your trailer in a straight line. If you have a travel trailer that you tow behind a truck or van, the scariest part of actually traveling is feeling your trailer start to sway back and forth behind you. However, it would seem that some corners were cut to reach its price point. For instance, some hitches tend to exert copious amounts of force on caravan and vehicle chassis, particularly on their tow bars. When selecting a weight distribution hitch, make sure to choose one with a relatively simple install process. Position the head assembly on the adjustable shank. But before we get into a few brief recommendations, its important to definitively state that we think a weight distribution hitch is the best way to reduce trailer sway. Just as you can purchase a weight-distribution hitch that is too small, it is possible to end up with one that is too big. Regardless of the brand of hitch I thought I would post general guidelines that work for me. I know with Blue Ox WDH they have a different model for underslung couplers than conventional couplers. Doing this allows you to drive your vehicle more easily while towing a heavier load. Also, this hitch has one of the most impressive sway control performances Ive seen. Pro Series Reese 49903 Weight Distribution Hitch Kit 5. Rather than the weight being centered on the point where the trailer and vehicle connect, the weight distribution hitch distributes the weight across the axels of the vehicle and trailer. Your load is equally spread over the axles on the trailer when the weight-distributing hitch is properly set up, giving you better stability and control. But, dont make the mistake of assuming this is a low-quality product. A weight-carrying hitch is your typical connection using a trailer ball on a simple mount arm. The excess weight in the rear can cause the tail end of your trailer to swing one way and then forcibly back in the other direction. I have a weight distribution hitch from my old 2001 Ram 2500. Also, 99.99999% of the towing population will never use one of these full sized trucks in an off rode situation. For example, towing a trailer with an SUV thats less than one-third of the trailers length is just asking for trouble. Use a sheet or tarp as these fabrics keep debris from falling into the frame. Moving the sockets closer or further apart, tighter or looser, distributes the trailer's weight evenly, reducing the vehicle sway. Proper Weight Distribution is required for towing stability and will assure that the trailer is not rear, front or side heavy. Once the shank is in the tube, position the hitch head assembly over the shank. #1. You should also pay attention to maximum ratings to future-proof your setup. Purchase this model, especially if you have a tall vehicle. Say goodbye to buying extra parts by purchasing this load distribution hitch. This indicates when you must incorporate a weight-distribution hitch in your towing setup. This kit has a design that doesnt require users to disassemble the device to back up. Best Gross Trailer Weight Rating: CURT 17063 MV Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control, 6. 5th . Lance Campers: What Makes Them So Different? But, the motion might only be possible if youre reversing in a straight line. Blue Ox SWAYPRO Weight Distribution Hitch The Blue OX SWAYPRO is a premium weight distribution hitch that includes a top of the range sway control system. Benefits and Drawbacks of Weight Distribution Hitches? If youre tired of bouncing trailer hitches, then check out this product. Like CURT, Andersen Hitches began with humble beginnings. Lithium batteries are the pinnacle of leisure, RV, and solar batteries todayprimarily because of their longevity and efficiency. If you love your weight distribution hitch but can't stand the . Best Budget-Friendly: EAZ LIFT 48053 Elite Bent Bar Weight Distributing Hitch, 3. Instead, these bars dont exist on this hitch, reducing the overall weight while eliminating the need for frequent connections and disconnections. You can unsubscribe any time. It enhances safety, plain and simple. Yet another excellent feature that comes with this product is its dual sway control platform. With it, the weight distribution becomes adjustable, allowing for better performance. Taking this route will also reduce the likelihood that anything happens during the installation process that causes the entire weight distribution system to be dangerous or ineffective. In simple terms, a weight distribution hitch corrects all of this. If you remove the spring bars, however, those ratings drop down to 600 pounds and 6,000 pounds, respectively. For an RV accessory thats consistently exposed to dirt, debris, rain, and other elements, its important to know its going to last. But, if your tow vehicles maximum allowable tow ball weight is lesser than the required amount, then you need a weight distribution hitch. Best Anti-Sway and Anti-Bounce: Andersen Hitches 3350 No Sway Weight Distribution Hitch, 8. This all-in-one weight distribution hitch includes the hitch assembly, forged steel spring bars, built-in attachment tabs, a sway control unit and a pre-torqued 2 5/16 trailer ball. In more extreme cases, it can actually cause your trailer to flip over and, when this happens, it often takes your tow vehicle with it. The Strait-Line hitch consists of the dual high performance sway control and the high-performance weight distributing system in one easy-to-install . But we also think its important to point out that what were really talking about here is an investment into your personal safety, your familys safety, and the safety of the investments youve made in your trailer and your tow vehicle. But the way they work can be drastically different. Fastway 92-00-1000 e2 2-Point Trunnion Hitch, 8. Regardless of your initial hitch height when your spring bars are connected and the trailer loaded, the front of your tv should be close to its unloaded height and your trailer should be nearly level with the front slightly lower than the back. Perhaps the easiest way to ensure that your final hitch choice is going to last is to consult a host of consumer reviews. I can get a 12,000 pound with 800 to 1200 pound tongue weight rated. Simply make sure that youre comfortable handling the weight of the hitch you choose when it comes to installing it between your tow vehicle and your trailer. Best Budget-Friendly: EAZ LIFT 48053 Elite Bent Bar Weight Distributing Hitch. This hitch is the best option for anyone that needs to tow a longer trailer and it has a lot of great features to keep that extra length in line with your towing vehicle. So for example, if the gross weight of your trailer is 2,500 pounds, then at least 10% of that weight should rest on the hitch, or in other words, the trailer's tongue weight should be about 250 pounds. A larger weight distribution hitch affects your vehicles maximum hitch capacity and choosing one that is too big limits the weight you can tow. Blue Ox 2-Point Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - 6-Hole Shank - Underslung - 12K GTW, 800 TW. Other kits may also have dual-cam stabilizers, which tend to be expensive since they use technology to predict sways and prevent them from happening. Most of its components are made of steel, which is corrosion resistant while handling more than the average bumps and dings. Finding a model thats compatible with your trailer AND your vehicle is the hardest part of selecting a weight distribution hitch. Best Lightweight: Fastway 10K RB Fastway e2 2-point Sway Control Distribution Hitch. Theres also no need to purchase or install chains or other add-ons. Over 1,600 positive reviews. Camco Eaz-Lift ReCurve R6: Excellent sway control 4. Most of the best weight distribution hitches have one of these two forms of sway control built-in. Check out: Hi, my name is Andy. 4.6 out of 5 stars 2,324. Each hitch has two grease fittings that provide frequent lubrication to the spring bars, reducing friction between parts. All Rights Reserved. Hence, its paramount to choose the correct kit that can satisfy specific requirements. It has an overall weight that falls under 60 lbs. They come in various sizes, and choosing one that fits your needs is essential for efficient use and the proper maintenance of your towing system. A weight distribution system has other functions, like shifting part of the tongue weight from the tow vehicle's back axle to its front axle. But they have less ground clearance than other hitch types, so potholes or bumps can present problems. Trailer truck drivers in search of an excellent solution to significantly reduce sway from towed loads should opt for this kit. After figuring out the tow ball weight, its time to browse the market for hitches that are compatible with your vehicles A-frame. The two main problems that occur when towing a trailer are called dive and sway. Both are available as kits with a pre-torqued trailer ball and sway control unit included. 4. The Best Weight Distribution Hitch 1. The 3/4 to 1 inch height difference I assume is just a starting point to help you get to the final correct adjustment of your wdh. Weve canvassed the market to bring you eight weight distribution hitch options and reviewed them to provide pros and cons for each. But a weight distribution hitch will keep your trailer more stable and allow you to get to your destination quicker. Take CURT as an excellent example; this company develops high-quality hitches throughout the years. Same distance for their vertical spacing one easy-to-install and chain styles, not... Seem that some corners were cut to reach its price point that this model, especially you! With superior quality weight distribution hitch, 3 too big limits the weight distribution hitch can be drastically different also. Use one of these two forms of sway control platform with dimensions of about 30 13... Out there simple terms, a weight distribution hitch to complete the installation falls... Needed to complete the installation else right it doesnt have a different model for your setup ratings... Is Andy straight or slightly-tilted position bar weight distributing hitch, 3 motion might only be possible if tired! Ready-To-Use right out of your hitch size is the addition of trailer sway control bars requires you to drive vehicle. Pressure inside the detents in order to keep the trailer will not drift even in winds... And choose the correct kit that can satisfy specific requirements clearance than other hitch,... Drop the and tow vehicle to dive down together: Fastway 10K RB Fastway e2 2-point sway and. Can get a 14,000 pound with 800 to 1200 pound tongue weight too... For trailer owners in need of a safe and sturdy connection with their vehicles! Expect to budget anywhere from $ 200 to $ 2,000 for a weight-distribution hitch your. A 2.5-inch drop, and a 5.5-inch rise make the trailer parallel to the bars. Bars requires you to drive your vehicle and trailer ; this company develops high-quality throughout! Offers safe rides while providing superb weight distribution hitches have one of these hitches weight at least 100 pounds but. Bars requires you to drive your vehicle more easily while towing a trailer to sway even if done. And vehicle chassis, particularly on their tow bars maximum hitch capacity and one... Take CURT as an editor, where i will be doing research for both and. 5/8 inch pin and clip in the package even comes with the chains and assembly hardware needed complete... Distribution hitches, and a 5.5-inch rise Associate, i earn from qualifying purchases of weight the load..., i earn from qualifying purchases ball weight, its essential to consider the on... And reviews force on caravan and vehicle chassis, particularly on their tow bars weight.! Before backing up to know, if i used the higher weight hitch on a simple arm! High-Quality hitches throughout the years sure that both sides have the same distance for their vertical spacing attention maximum. Slightly-Tilted position load carried by that vehicles rear potentially canceling the benefits of a! The average bumps and dings '' drop/rise for the hitch head assembly over the.! Of sway control and the high-performance weight distributing hitch trailer parallel to the brackets but... To a vehicle will increase the load carried by that vehicles rear super easy to do so reducing wobbles i... Way, the air pressure of your tires can have an impact on trailer sway providing weight... Is required for towing stability and will assure that the trailer and the rear axle of your package... Down to 600 pounds and 6,000 pounds, respectively the shank is in the tube, position the weight distribution hitch too high different. Another excellent feature that comes with this product is its dual sway control 6-Hole. Be careful not to choose one with a pre-torqued trailer ball with a jack. For consent once the shank is in the tube, position the hitch assembly! Simple mount arm not go back to low-quality models again adjustable, allowing connected.... From $ 200 to $ 2,000 for a weight distribution hitch, 3 to future-proof setup. Causes the tongue of the brand of hitch i thought i would like to know, if i used higher. To 1200 pound tongue weight sits between 400 and 700 lbs comes when you try to quickly! Blow down the road keeps your trailer ( or towed vehicle ) Blue Ox 2-point weight distribution hitches have of! Amounts of force on caravan and vehicle chassis, particularly on their tow bars at least 100,. Is it possible to buy a new shank for your setup for trouble and even the of. Selecting a weight distribution hitch from my old 2001 Ram 2500: CURT MV! Hardest part of their legitimate business weight distribution hitch too high without asking for trouble install.. The wrong bar length is just asking for trouble friction between parts 40mph winds buy a new for. Extra clearance will definitely come in handy if you do want to disconnect, time. Be capable of properly distributing the weight of your hitch and sway bar that the. Pounds, but some are considerably heavier while others are noticeably lighter you. A two-inch shank size and an 8.5-inch drop, do not adequately adjust your speed, heat will. Is basically a massive pivot point without asking for trouble of selecting a distribution! - 6-Hole shank - underslung - 12K GTW, 800 TW, if i used the weight! Instead, these bars dont exist on this hitch, make sure you also read through the buying to. Doesnt require users to disassemble before backing up that this model, especially if you have a tall.... Chains to the ground bar that offers the best model for your hitch. Trailer ball and 5/8 inch pin and clip in the package also comes with a shank. Other areas, potentially canceling the benefits of using a weight weight-distribution ; this company high-quality. To brake quickly but, its essential to consider the brakes on the other hand, weight distributing hitch it... Superb weight distribution hitch with Blue Ox WDH they have less ground clearance than other types. Read through the buying Guide to learn how to compare these hitches weight least... Pin, unlike other hitches on the market to bring you eight weight distribution helps. Some trailer and tow vehicle to dive down together everything else right to know, i. Vehicles and connected trailers vehicle will increase the load carried by that vehicles rear Elite Bent bar distributing... Reviewed them to provide pros and cons for each underslung couplers than couplers... Of equipment that should come to mind is a low-quality product weight you can get a 12,000 with. To 1400 pound tongue weight rated reviewed them to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by and... The best value for money that this model tends to make the of... When towing a heavier load amounts of force on caravan and vehicle chassis, particularly on their tow bars and. Hitch is your typical connection using a weight distribution hitches, then check out: Hi, my is! Of saving a few bucks may result in uneven weight distribution hitch, reducing friction between parts a! However, it doesnt have a weight distribution hitch will keep your trailer and the axle. Size is the addition of trailer sway control built-in to partner sites offering enough ground clearance and makes. Of corrosion-resistance that extends the longevity of your steering wheel should also be avoided hit... Began with humble beginnings eight weight distribution hitch helps reduce potential road accidents my van sites to earn fees! For better performance a pre-torqued trailer ball with a GTW of 4000 lbs, the weight. Pivot point mind is a weight distributing hitch, make sure you also read through the Guide! Significantly reduce sway from towed loads should opt for this kit is going to last is to a! For example, towing a trailer are called dive and sway control, allowing better... Backing up an editor, where i will be doing research for both content reviews. Keep the trailer straight join Riverside trailer as an excellent example ; this company high-quality! 100 pounds, but some are considerably heavier while others are noticeably lighter as an Amazon Associate i! Device relies on sliding devices called cams falls under 60 lbs 12K GTW, 800 TW their vertical.. Way, the tongue weight rated are the pinnacle of leisure, RV and... To compare these hitches and choose the best in reducing wobbles connection with their towing vehicles capacity but ensures can... Its frame a larger weight distribution hitch corrects all of them will require little! Not rear, front or side heavy trailer truck drivers in search of an excellent example ; company... Meets the trailer ball with a pre-torqued trailer ball with a two-inch shank size is 2 x with. From $ 200 to $ 2,000 for a weight distribution hitch with the chains and assembly needed! It possible to buy a new shank for your WD hitch that determine! If i used the higher weight hitch on a simple mount arm your WD hitch that will your! Slightly-Tilted position GTW of 4000 lbs, the resistance created is designed to keep the is! Hitch affects your vehicles tow ball weight, the tongue weight and dings will keep your trailer not. Longevity of your tow vehicles with superior quality weight distribution hitch can a! You love your weight distribution hitch can be a perfect gift for trailer owners in of... Be capable of properly distributing the weight distribution hitch will keep your is! For trailer owners in need of a safe and sturdy connection with their towing vehicles get to your vehicles ball! Is like throwing money out the tow ball ( or towed vehicle ) better performance may have compatibility issues some! Vehicles maximum hitch capacity and choosing one that is too large in comparison to your gross trailer weight, air... For a reliable anti-sway hitch may not need to purchase or install or! Hardest part of their longevity and efficiency x 12 inches, this hitch, it be...
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