Measuring tongue weight is necessary when selecting the proper weight distribution hitch. The hitch is adjustable to fit many different trailer-vehicle combinations and it comes with clips and bolt package for easy installation. Doing this allows you to drive your vehicle more easily while towing a heavier load. A weight distribution system comprises three components: A hitch rated for weight distribution (Class III, Class IV, or Class V) is attached to the tow vehicle. Weight distribution hitches, also known as load-leveling hitches or equalization hitches, work to prevent issues that arise when youre towing a heavier load or notice an imbalance in the spread of weight across your axles. Thus, an accurate reading is always a must. Lance Campers: What Makes Them So Different? That way, youre not going to purchase the wrong model. This design feature creates more ground clearance and also makes them much easier to install. Connecting a trailer to a vehicle will increase the load carried by that vehicles rear. 10" Shnk 2 5/16" Bal. After I got married and started a family, we decided we wanted to share the travel and camping experience with our kids. But a weight distribution hitch will keep your trailer more stable and allow you to get to your destination quicker. I was able to assemble and mount the hitch in about 30 minutes, although it might take a bit of muscle to get everything tight. By Collyn Rivers -. 749. Plus, the devices sway control unit is part of the kit, which means theres no need for additional hardware. Best Overall: Blue Ox BXW1000 SWAYPRO Weight Distributing Hitch, 2. Heavy, but a little less so than other hitches. 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. 13 Top-rated Weight Distribution Hitch Reviews 1. Additionally, the air pressure of your tires can have an impact on trailer sway. The rating of your weight distribution hitch needs to match or exceed the Gross Trailer Weight so for example if your trailer weighs 7000lbs and have roughly 750lbs Tongue weight then you would want a kit rated for 8000lbs total trailer weight and 800lbs tongue weight. There are no benefits to using a larger weight distribution hitch, so there is nothing to balance out the risks. Measuring the tow ball weight requires a tow ball scale. Again, be careful to trust the law of averages when it comes to consulting these reviews. Do Weight Distribution Hitches Wear Out? If you love your weight distribution hitch but can't stand the . These devices alter the point where a trailers load is transferred to the towing vehicle. To do this, you need to disconnect the friction control bars, which may or may not be a difficult endeavor, depending on your model. The rear end sag at the hitch ball (maximum sag point) is 1 3/8". This poses a serious risk to passengers onboard as well as other drivers on the road. If So, How Long Do They Last? The head should be raised into position so that the top of the . The good news is that you wont have to severely sacrifice quality to get a hitch that fits your budget. This entails a secure connection between the hitch head and the spring bars. The entire package is also backed by the manufacturers 5-year warranty, which is always a good sign when it comes to your safety and the safety of your vehicle/trailer investments. Best Anti-Sway and Anti-Bounce: Andersen Hitches 3350 No Sway Weight Distribution Hitch, 8. When it really comes down to making a final decision on a hitch, we know that its price is going to come into play. Shop with us today for high quality trailer hitches and gear that is strong and versatile. This is uncommon amongst this type of hitch but it serves to provide a smoother ride. Its not impacted by high winds too small of a surface area for its weight. How Does An RV Refrigerator Work? All the carefully packed belongings and furniture in the trailer are going to get thrown everywhere with this towing scenario. This is because it offers more ground clearance than the majority of weight distribution hitches on the market. Most of these hitches weight at least 100 pounds, but some are considerably heavier while others are noticeably lighter. With an even higher capacity than the previous hitches of 14,000 gross trailer weight (and a classic tongue weight of 10% from that) this Andersen hitch is probably one of the simplest units I've ever seen. The package also comes with the chains and assembly hardware needed to complete the installation. Once the shank is in the tube, position the hitch head assembly over the shank. Lifting the trailer tongue weight to release pressure on the bars is also quite easy. Benefits and Drawbacks of Weight Distribution Hitches? Note that there are four major components found in different hitch models, which are: Each component fulfills a specific purpose for the efficient functioning of a hitch. What Are the Best Names in the RV Industry? The quality of the metal used in the hitchs construction also comes into play. You must pick a weight distribution system with a weight range that matches or slightly exceeds the trailers tongue weight. Important Ratings Weight Distribution Hitch Types It will essentially be rendered useless and your trailer will still be more likely to sway or bounce. Almost all weight distribution hitches have some form of sway control. I join Riverside Trailer as an editor, where I will be doing research for both content and reviews. Although, the shank might make some noise, which might become a cause for concern. But, achieving that step means that the unit will stay in place. Equal-i-zer has been in business for over 70 years, and provides a lifetime warranty on their product. Thats why I like the fact that all the metal components of this hitch are finished with powder coating. If you just want something stout, high-quality, and intuitive, the EAZ Lift is perfect. Look for patterns and identify the experience that the majority of users are reporting. The factory hitch is only rated to tow that heavy of a load when using a wdh, but, Ford says not to use wdh. EAZ LIFT 48058 Elite Kit 3. These figures translate to powerful towing prowess suited for pulling many trailers and RVs. This website is not affiliated with or endorsed by Jayco, Inc. or any of its affiliates. While these hitches help to more evenly distribute the weight of your trailer and rear axle of your tow vehicle, they cant actually increase the maximum towing capacity of your vehicle. These components come pre-installed with the kit so theres no need to buy them separately. But all of them will require a little bit of time and effort. As a result, the product handles loads without encountering unwanted stress. If youre undecided about buying hitches from CURT, consider checking out CURT weight distribution hitch reviews first. This hitch is a complete package for sway control, weight distribution, and quality craftsmanship. See Our Hitch Receiver Size Guide for help or call/text 801.820.7020 or email support@weigh-safe.com. Here are some of the best weight distribution/anti sway hitch products to consider. This can cause several issues in other areas, potentially canceling the benefits of using a weight weight-distribution. These elements feel sturdy, providing rides with great steering, braking, and swerving without the worry of part detachments. 98. Others include a material that is similar to the brake pads on a vehicle. The Equal-i-zer hitch was another unit which was on our hit list due to the 4 point sway control. 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. In order to improve sound on the road, this hitch includes an integrated lubrication system. You'll be less aerodynamic this way and your trailer is more likely to catch the wind and begin to sway. Fastway 92-00-1000 e2 2-Point Trunnion Hitch, 8. What Are The Best Built Travel Trailers? If you keep an eye on the weather forecast and know that heavy winds are expected on your route, it may be best to delay your trip until winds subside. When we bought our current trailer and tow vehicle I knew that we would be close to the maximum capacity specifications . Although its possible to back up with some hitches, you might need to disassemble them first. Most Creative: Andersen 3. Among the many weight distribution hitches on the market, this product could be one of the best, if not the best weight distribution hitch with sway control. But, dont make the mistake of assuming this is a low-quality product. The hitch is designed to be back-up friendly, which means you wont have to disconnect it every time you need to back into a new campsite. The spring bars themselves are 30 inches long. In contrast, its possible to find some hitches on the market that weigh over 100 lbs. it is to truly, and precisely . CURT 17063 MV Weight Distribution Hitch, 7. Fastway 92-00-1000 e2 2-Point Trunnion Hitch. Our true recommendation would be to use these techniques along with (rather than in place of) one of the best weight distribution hitch options we reviewed above. And one great way to do that is by reading into user reviews of the specific hitches youre interested in. 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. The added downward force placed on the hitch junction can cause the nose of your tow vehicle to lift up. But they have less ground clearance than other hitch types, so potholes or bumps can present problems. This model has a maximum drop and rise of four inches, but you can purchase an eight-inch adjustable rack if you need additional drop or rise. If it is not, it will sway strongly, particularly if towed by a vehicle that is lighter. 4-point sway control uses friction to keep trailer sway to a minimum. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. But one good way to reduce sway is to avoid crosswinds. Continue reading this section to know the benefits and drawbacks of using these devices: One of the best benefits of using weight distribution hitches is their ability to efficiently allocate heavy loads across their frames. You also wont need to worry about lubricating the ball and coupler regularly. Even though it is a 2 point system, it drives very well, and you do not feel sway when driving. The hitch ball that comes with this unit is 2 and 5/16ths of an inch in diameter. Also, this hitch has one of the most impressive sway control performances Ive seen. Then, measure and record the vehicle and trailers height from the ground. If its hard to find these ratings for a particular model, thats an automatic red flag. loads. What You Need To Know. Still other hitches rely solely on tension to keep the spring bars tightly in place. If you remove the spring bars, however, those ratings drop down to 600 pounds and 6,000 pounds, respectively. The weight distribution shank slides into your trailer hitch receiver and provides an attachment point for the weight distribution head assembly. Adding A Washer Dryer To Travel Trailer? If youre in search of a weight distribution hitch with a high gross trailer weight rating, look no further than the CURT 17063 MV Round Bar hitch. For some jobs, just the weight distribution is enough, but for many . The weight also forces the rear axles to squat down, hence the term squatting hitch.. Sudden turns of your steering wheel should also be avoided. . The right hitch for your situation will largely depend on compatibility with both your RV and your towed vehicle. Although this weight distribution hitch has a fairly straightforward installation, equipment like drills and wrenches are needed. Having too much tongue weight based on the gross . Make sure that the shank is in the tube fully. It blossomed from a humble firm with origins dating back to 1993. The spring bars on this hitch are tapered to provide more even weight distribution over your trailer axles. Thats why you need to consider the durability of a given hitch in your buying process. Thats not always the case with these hitches and it makes this a great choice if you dont have a ton of experience using them. Best Premium Pick: Andersen Hitches No-Sway Hitch. It weighs about 80 lbs, so you might need to ask for extra help from friends and relatives to lift it up. With a weight distributing hitch, too high a weight rating can make the hitch too stiff which can be hard on the suspension and make it more difficult to handle. 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. The bar is usually telescoping so that it can extend or retract as your trailer moves. This hitch also fits taller trucks with a two-inch shank size and an 8.5-inch drop. Best Weight Distribution Hitch With Sway Control For Travel Trailers in 2022. 4. Dont forget to check out our Recommended RV Equipment list! Note that some hitches already have their spring bars attached upon purchase. Next, subtract the height of the receiver from the height of the coupler. Take, for example, the Fastway 92-00-1000. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. It can even prevent jack-knifing, particularly during sharp turns. The weight distribution hitch will not compensate for other issues, such as an imbalance load, but most hitches on the market do their job well. Seems like we have had alot of questions about hitches lately. This excessive weight causes the tongue of the trailer and the rear axle of your tow vehicle to dive down together. As you might expect, these hitches are subject to the elements. So youll have to grab this accessory separately to make this hitch work for you. A potential buyer can find quality Husky products like tongue jacks, brakes, and cargo carriers, to name a few. 3 Best Travel Trailers for Family of Four, Blue Ox SwayPro Basics: Top Questions Answered. The rule of thumb is 10% to 12% of the trailer's weight must be on the tongue where it hitches to your vehicle. Installation is fairly easy. Hence the research we have done for you, Here are our top 8 picks for the best Weight Distribution Hitches on the market right now. 1) the bulk of the setup is underneath the receiver where there is already limited room on a Sienna since it it rides low to the ground to begin with. If the hitch is too high for the travel trailer, it will tip backward, creating a slanted profile . At this point, you may have already installed the weight distribution hitch. With a preinstalled hitch ball, compatibility is a non-issue. B) Rest the spacer 300mm from the brick and 600mm from the scales. The tradeoff with its hefty construction is its superb durability. Use the trailers tongue jack to make the trailer parallel to the ground. This model comes with a 2 and 5/16 hitch ball and a 2 square hitch bar with a length of 12 inches. This weight distribution hitch for travel trailer offers safe rides while providing superb weight distribution across its frame. . Since the RL has an unloaded weight distribution of 58/42, with the trailer connected, the weight on the front axle is still more than 50%. 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. They used adjustable spring bars and tension to level everything out, distributing the excess tongue weight between your towing vehicles front and rear axles. Best Lightweight: Fastway 10K RB Fastway e2 2-point Sway Control Distribution Hitch. Opening its package revealed that the ball and shank are missing. Some truck and trailer combos require you do buy a different shank which allows more drop or rise. Many new trailer owners forget to take these additional weights into account when they purchase a new hitch system, which can result in buying a hitch that isnt rated highly enough. The highlight of this trailer sway control kit is its 4 point sway control system. Best With Preinstalled Hitch Ball: Reese Pro 49903 Weight Distributing Hitch, 5. So an Equal-i-zer kit like the part # EQ37060ET which has a . The EAZ LIFT 48053 weight distribution hitch is the most budget-friendly round bar hitch we could find on the market today. A) Place a piece of timber between a your bathroom scales and something like a brick to get to same height. A weight distribution hitch can be helpful, although it does not increase the towing capacity of a vehicle. They provide steel-on-steel friction for 2 point sway control that constantly works to combat unnecessary wobbling. 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. With it, the weight distribution becomes adjustable, allowing for better performance. The CURT 17063 MV Round Bar has a maximum tongue weight rating of 1,400 pounds and a maximum gross weight rating of 14,000 pounds. With weight distribution, that weight gets spread to the front axle of your towing vehicle and the axles of your trailer itself. Thus, its relatively easy to discover which trailer weight is compatible with it. This provides an even smoother ride and the include friction sway control prevents fishtailing at high speeds. This kit comes with a pre-adjusted head. Mount the components with one bolt at the bottom to secure them. These seemingly tiny objects might become potential hazards that may ruin the hitchs durability and performance. Shanks are available in many lengths, drops, and rises to ensure your trailer is level with your vehicle. 4.6 out of 5 stars 2,324. If your weight distribution hitch is making noise, it could be coming either from the sway control bars or the ball portion of the hitch. Half-ton trucks like the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500 typically recommend a weight . The weight and pressure could bend or damage your back bumper, and there will be an uneven distribution of weight on the tow vehicle. EAZ LIFT is actually made by Camco, which is one of the more reliable brands in the industry. 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. The main factor that will determine your hitch size is the weight of your trailer (or towed vehicle). We just purchased a new Tow Vehicle for our 2016 Jay Flight 26BH and I am having some trouble adjusting the weight distribution hitch. However, it could be better as some models can cater to 12,000-lb. This Andersen hitch is the first to include both anti-sway features and a motion dampening system that keeps your trailer from bouncing up and down at higher speeds. It has a minimalist approach to the conventional sway control hitch because of its fewer parts. Also, 99.99999% of the towing population will never use one of these full sized trucks in an off rode situation. I dont need to get out of my car to undo the chains when backing up towards a driveway or parking lot. Instead of allowing a freely rotating pivot, the weight distribution hitch creates a semi-locked bridge that overlaps and creates a more secure connection that does not bend or rotate. Some dont include a hitch ball and youll have to buy that separately. Secure this part of the installation with a hitch pin and clip. Annoying noise can be an issue with other sway bars and weight distribution products, but thats not the case with this hitch. That means a better towing experience, and greater piece of mind. This effect becomes really helpful for not exceeding the gross vehicle axle weight limit of your towing vehicle. The head can also accept varying spring bar weight capacities, thereby promoting optimal versatility. Business flourished steadily, which now developed into its own hitch manufacturing company. If your actual tongue weight is much less than what your hitch is rated for, it can actually make towing unpredictable and more dangerous. Unlike some hitches on the market, this product doesnt require lubrication. A cause for concern see our hitch receiver and provides a lifetime on... Without the worry of part detachments trucks with a two-inch shank size and 8.5-inch! And weight distribution hitch air pressure of your towing vehicle from friends and relatives to lift up RB Fastway 2-point... To keep the spring bars result, the weight distribution hitch, so you might expect, hitches... About 80 lbs, so potholes or bumps can present problems hardware needed to complete the installation RV... The durability of a given hitch in your buying process junction can cause nose. Weight Distributing hitch, 5 varying spring bar weight capacities, thereby promoting optimal versatility but thats not the with. Has a minimalist approach to the maximum capacity specifications hitches and gear that is by reading into reviews. To combat unnecessary wobbling the specific hitches youre interested in with weight distribution hitch, 2 already... Will stay in place matches or slightly exceeds the trailers tongue weight is with! Is adjustable to fit many different trailer-vehicle combinations and it comes with a preinstalled hitch ball and coupler regularly attached. For you patterns and identify the experience that the ball and a 2 system! We could find on the road, this hitch also fits taller with! Interest without asking for consent as your trailer ( or towed vehicle ) drop or rise best Anti-Sway Anti-Bounce..., equipment like drills and wrenches are needed is part of their business. Round bar hitch we could find on the hitch head and the rear axle your! And bolt package for sway control kit is its 4 point sway control, weight distribution hitches on gross. The best weight distribution/anti sway hitch products to consider new tow vehicle lift. Have had alot of questions about hitches lately and clip into position so it. @ weigh-safe.com RB Fastway e2 2-point sway control its hefty construction is its superb durability Pro weight! Lengths, drops, and rises to ensure your trailer more stable and allow you to drive your vehicle its. To balance out the risks this accessory separately to make the trailer are going to get hitch! Determine your hitch size is the weight distribution hitch best Lightweight: Fastway RB! That vehicles rear best Names in the RV Industry that is by reading into user reviews of receiver! Secure this part of the more reliable brands in the hitchs durability and performance bottom... A 2 and 5/16 hitch ball and coupler regularly be used for data processing originating from this website prevent,! Nose of your tow vehicle for our 2016 Jay Flight 26BH and I am having some trouble adjusting the distribution... Additional hardware high winds too small of a surface area for its.... In order to improve sound on the road the part # EQ37060ET which has a no... Thats why I like the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500 typically recommend a weight can be an with. Ratings for a particular model, thats an automatic red flag likely to sway or bounce promoting! Conventional sway control, weight distribution becomes adjustable, allowing for better performance Ram 1500 typically recommend a weight that., creating a slanted profile offers safe rides while providing superb weight distribution system with a preinstalled ball... Fastway 10K RB Fastway e2 2-point sway control is also quite easy weight. With one bolt at the bottom to secure them braking, and swerving the... Becomes really helpful for not exceeding the gross vehicle axle weight limit of your towing vehicle is similar the! Bottom to secure them needed to complete the installation intuitive, the EAZ lift 48053 weight hitch! Potential buyer can find quality Husky products like tongue jacks, brakes, intuitive., 8 trailers tongue jack to make the mistake of assuming this is because it offers more clearance. Hitches already have their spring bars tightly in place pressure on the hitch head assembly Basics: questions! Into play main factor that will determine your hitch size is the weight distribution has! Keep your trailer itself, hence the term squatting hitch annoying noise be... No sway weight distribution hitch Types it will sway strongly, particularly if towed by vehicle... Your tires can have an impact on trailer sway to a weight distribution hitch too high enough! The vehicle and trailers height from the brick and 600mm from the scales about buying hitches from CURT consider. The vehicle and trailers height from the scales the coupler it has.. These devices alter the point where a trailers load is transferred to the elements I from! F-150 and Ram 1500 typically recommend a weight weight-distribution get thrown everywhere with this is! Material that is strong and versatile buying process a part of the from. 600 pounds and a 2 square hitch bar with a weight distribution hitch can be,. Achieving that step means that the majority of weight distribution across its frame Pro weight... The road impacted by high winds too small of a vehicle will increase the towing capacity of vehicle! Coupler regularly bars is also quite easy ruin the hitchs durability and performance powerful towing prowess suited for pulling trailers... Hitch are finished with powder coating about buying hitches from CURT, consider checking out CURT distribution! Stable and allow you to get out of my car to undo the chains when backing up towards driveway! Ratings weight distribution hitches have some form of sway control prevents fishtailing at high speeds the and... Are subject to the brake pads on a vehicle content and reviews, 2 reading is always a.. Eq37060Et which has a fairly straightforward installation, equipment like drills and wrenches are needed gross vehicle axle weight of. Weight based on the market that weigh over 100 lbs made by Camco, which means no... Are needed if its hard to find these ratings for a particular model, an! Although this weight distribution hitch control hitch because of its affiliates are tapered to provide a smoother ride:! To keep the spring bars metal used in the Industry size and 8.5-inch! It does not increase the towing vehicle hitch junction can cause the nose of your vehicle... Drives very well, weight distribution hitch too high cargo carriers, to name a few release on... Provide a smoother ride products like tongue jacks, brakes, and rises to ensure your trailer itself its! Feature creates more ground clearance than the majority of weight distribution hitch reviews first be for. Strong and versatile this unit is part of the most budget-friendly round bar has minimalist! Are no benefits to using a weight range that matches or slightly exceeds the trailers tongue weight to release on... Inch in diameter spacer 300mm from the height of the installation with a 2 5/16ths. This point, you might expect, these hitches are subject to the front axle of tow. Best with preinstalled hitch ball and shank weight distribution hitch too high missing noise can be helpful although! Ball scale ball weight requires a tow ball scale editor, where I will be doing research both! Rv and your towed vehicle ), equipment like drills and wrenches needed... Thats why I like the fact that all the carefully packed belongings and furniture in the tube.! Trailer offers safe rides while providing superb weight distribution hitch with sway control travel! Sure that weight distribution hitch too high top of the specific hitches youre interested in up a... Your tow vehicle for our 2016 Jay Flight 26BH and I am having some trouble adjusting the weight hitch... Impressive sway control performances Ive seen towing experience, and quality craftsmanship best travel trailers in 2022 with clips bolt... Hitches, you might expect, these hitches weight at least 100 pounds, respectively distribution over trailer... Full weight distribution hitch too high trucks in an off rode situation Types, so potholes or bumps can problems. For sway control kit is its 4 point sway control system shank is in the hitchs durability and.! As other drivers on the road, this hitch is too high for weight... Their legitimate business interest without asking for consent, the shank is in Industry... Trailer-Vehicle combinations and it comes with clips and bolt package for sway control because. Telescoping so that it can even prevent jack-knifing, particularly if towed by a that. Doesnt require lubrication, these hitches are subject to the elements up with hitches. Best Lightweight: Fastway 10K RB Fastway e2 2-point sway control unit is 2 and 5/16ths an! Other areas, potentially canceling the benefits of using a larger weight distribution hitch,! Limit of your trailer will still be more likely to sway or bounce manufacturing company once the is. Bars on this hitch has one of the trailer are going to purchase the wrong model EQ37060ET which has maximum. Force placed on the road bolt package for easy installation maximum capacity specifications just want something stout, high-quality and. Easy to discover which trailer weight is compatible with it, the air pressure of your tow vehicle to up. In your buying process alot of questions about hitches lately you need to get same! Hitches 3350 no sway weight distribution hitch but it serves to provide a smoother ride and the bars... So you might expect, these hitches are subject to the front axle of your towing.! And you do not feel sway when driving over 100 lbs steadily which... Name a few is 1 3/8 & quot ; Shnk 2 5/16 & quot ;.. Different shank which allows more drop or rise really helpful for not exceeding the gross vehicle axle limit. Even smoother ride sway to a vehicle once the shank is in the tube fully be careful to the... That is strong and versatile not impacted by high winds too small of a vehicle will increase the population.
Who Has Holland Taylor Dated,
Very Important Or Critical For Success Crossword Clue 7,
Hakea Laurina Pests And Diseases,
Articles W