People who drove trailers know some of the heart-wrenching moments that can happen during drives. One minute they’re casually driving, and the next minute their trailers start to sway and lose control.
One way to ensure disaster won’t strike is to use the right protective equipment. A piece of equipment that should come to mind is a weight-distributing hitch. The best weight distribution hitch helps reduce potential road accidents.
- Design: Weight distribution hitches may vary in design. Most products on our review are tow hitch with sway bars to improve stability. If you only need to pull a trailer, you can choose a simple hitch without the sway control system. Meanwhile, an RV hitch stabilizer is common for electric brakes.
- Capacity: You need to make sure that your hitch stays within weight limits to be effective. Overloading the hitch may affect your ability to control the trailer while driving at full speed. In our reviews below, the lightest hitch can support a maximum gross trailer weight of 10,000 lbs, while the largest can tow up to 14,000 lbs.
- Ball: The easiest way to connect the hitch to a trailer is to include a hitch ball. Some of the top-quality hitches in this list have this component come pre-installed in the package. If you plan to tow more than one trailer or vehicle, then the flexibility of an adjustable ball mount suits you best.
- Other Features: The most advanced hitch features a positive latching action to make the ride smooth. Look for a shank to help level the hitch and find the right height for each load. For easy installation, some kits provide all necessary hardware for assembly, including bolts and clips.
Various modern hitch manufacturers develop and market functional and sturdy hitches at reasonable prices. Here are some of the most trusted weight distribution/anti sway hitch products to consider.
Product name | Outstanding Features | ||
Top 1 |
EAZ Lift 48069 |
|
Details |
Top 2 |
Equal-i-zer 4-Point Hitch |
|
Details |
Top 3 |
Husky 32218 |
|
Details |
Table of Contents
- Top-Rated Weight Distribution Hitch Reviews
- 1. EAZ Lift 48069 Elite Kit
- 2. Equal-i-zer 4-Point Hitch
- 3. Husky 32218 Center Line TS
- 4. EAZ Lift 48059-A Weight Distributing Hitch
- 5. Fastway 94-00-1000 e2 Round Bar Hitch
- 6. CURT 17063 MV Weight Distribution Hitch
- 7. Fastway 92-00-1000 e2 2-Point Trunnion Hitch
- 8. Andersen Hitches 3326 Weight Distribution Hitch
- 9. Husky 31423 Weight Distribution Hitch
- 10. CURT 17500 Weight Distribution Hitch
- 11. Blue Ox BXW1500 SWAYPRO Hitch
- 12. Reese 49913 Wd Rb Pro Series
- What To Know Before Buying Weight Distribution Hitches
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Top-Rated Weight Distribution Hitch Reviews
1. EAZ Lift 48069 Elite Kit
EAZ brings over 50 years of hitch-manufacturing expertise into this product. It has a minimalist approach to the conventional sway control hitch because of its fewer parts. In return, it reduces potential friction that may occur with other more convoluted hitches.
First, this trailer sway control kit has a 1,200-lb maximum tongue weight with a 12,000-lb maximum gross trailer weight rating. These figures indicate that the hitch can handle relatively heavy trailers without bending or breaking.
It also has an adjustable ball mount. With it, the weight distribution becomes adjustable, allowing for better performance.
This hitch has bars with positive latching action, which ensures smooth rides. Other essential features that come with this kit include the necessary amount of bolts and clips. This sway control hitch also has leg screws in the package. However, these screws aren’t quite sturdy, which may bend or break if the vehicles are going over rough terrain.
- Few parts that reduce friction
- Handles heavy loads efficiently
- Has an adjustable ball mount and bars with positive latching
- Package includes all necessary items to assemble and attach the kit
- 5-year manufacturer’s warranty
- Leg screws aren’t quite sturdy
2. Equal-i-zer 4-Point Hitch
Among the many weight distribution hitches on the market, this product could be one of the top-quality, if not the best weight distribution hitch with sway control.
The highlight of this trailer sway control kit is its 4 point sway control system. It delivers top-quality resistance against a trailer’s attempt to wobble. In contrast, many trailer hitches generally have three points to reduce unwanted motions.
With its shank, this product provides a 3 inch drop and a 7 inch rise during drives. These figures are adequate enough to keep the hitch and trailer from moving around excessively.
This Equal-i-zer hitch has a 4-point sway control system and efficient shank use, reducing the need to install add-on sway control devices. Thus, this kit offers excellent value despite its high price.
This hitch’s design also efficiently transfers the tongue weight to its axles. It means that the vehicle towing the trailer would always have its wheels firmly planted on the road.
Its design is also quite versatile since I can use it on relatively all bumper-pull trailers. These include cargo, boats, horses, RV, and utility trailers. Plus, it works well with surge brakes.
Other essential features that come with this weight distribution hitch kit are its 36 x 1-1/2 inch spring-bar and a 12,000-lb gross towing weight limit.
- Top-quality resistance against wobbling motions
- Little to no need to buy and install add-on sway control devices
- Keeps the towing vehicle firmly planted on the ground
- Versatile design, works with surge brakes
- Has parts for installation, spring bar, and 12000 lb gross towing limit
- It doesn’t have a hitch ball or 5/8 inch pin and clip
- Has an expensive price
3. Husky 32218 Center Line TS
Make trailer-towing a breeze with the outstanding built-in sway control of this product.
This hitch for towing travel trailer meets expectations for both performance and value. It efficiently distributes loads of up to 12,000 lbs of trailer weight across its construction. Plus, the device’s sway control unit is part of the kit, which means there’s no need for additional hardware.
One of the top-rated features the manufacturers included with this model is its quiet performance. This unit has none of the noisy operations heard in low-quality units.
Then there are sturdy steel components that the manufacturer forged and hardened to provide long-term durability and performance. Driving and towing trailers now come with peace of mind, knowing that this hitch stays in place.
Moreover, the hitch ball comes with the package as a pre-installed component. This component is also properly torqued, so there’s no need to readjust it upon acquisition.
However, it’s not as light as other competing products, especially if you look at its weight which goes over 100 lbs. In comparison, it’s possible to purchase and use a load distribution hitch that only weighs about 50 lbs.
The tradeoff with its hefty construction is its superb durability. There’s a limited lifetime warranty for personal reasons and a limited 90-day warranty if the product is used commercially.
- Equal load distribution across the frame
- No need for the additional sway control hardware
- Quiet performance, unlike low-quality units
- Long-term durability and performance, along with a pre-installed hitch ball
- Lifetime or 90-day warranty
- Not as light as other products
4. EAZ Lift 48059-A Weight Distributing Hitch
High weight capacities meet heavy-duty pulling actions with this weight distribution trailer hitch.
This hitch can keep heavy trailers stable, even when driving at high speeds. Part of its stable characteristics is because of its round spring bars. These elements feel sturdy, providing rides with great steering, braking, and swerving without the worry of part detachments.
Installation is fairly easy. 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. But, achieving that step means that the unit will stay in place.
Its construction also makes it possible to install this model to most, if not all towing vehicles and trailers. In other words, it doesn’t require extensive adjustment of cars and trailers for the installation to work.
It’s also important to note that this rig is quite heavy. But, it’s not too heavy that it would require heavy equipment to install. It weighs about 80 lbs, so you might need to ask for extra help from friends and relatives to lift it up.
This weight distributing hitch also has a fairly reasonable price. It’s not too cheap, and it won’t break the bank either.
- Offers great stability even when driving at high speeds
- Easy and quick installation
- No extensive vehicle or trailer adjustment required for the installation
- Has a reasonable price
- Missing ball and shank
- Quite heavy (about 80lbs)
5. Fastway 94-00-1000 e2 Round Bar Hitch
This weight distribution hitch for travel trailers offers safe rides while providing superb weight distribution across its frame.
It’s an incredibly easy-to-install hitch. Installation only took about 20 minutes, which is even shorter than what other models had on offer. Beginners might also have no problem assembling and installing this kit as the instructions are basic yet straightforward.
Moreover, removal is also a straightforward venture. Loosening some of the bolts with the right wrench gets the job done quickly.
There’s also no need to purchase or install chains or other add-ons. Driving or backing up during foul weather doesn’t hinder this hitch from performing magnificently.
Also, this hitch has one of the most impressive sway control performances I’ve seen. The trailer will not drift even in 40mph winds. The hitch works well, eliminating potential stressful driving situations.
The elements behind this superior built-in sway control are the rigid brackets. They provide steel-on-steel friction for 2 point sway control that constantly works to combat unnecessary wobbling.
But, it’s important to note that this model tends to make some noises during turns. These sounds might be alarming for some, but they’re not causes for dire concern.
- Easy-to-install and beginner-friendly hitch
- Removal is straightforward
- No need for extra add-ons
- Impressive sway control performance, backing up is not a problem
- Noisy during turns
- Large size may block rear view cameras
6. CURT 17063 MV Weight Distribution Hitch
Always have peace of mind while on the road with this weight distribution hitch attached to towing vehicles and trailers.
Avoiding noisy hitch operations has been made possible with the kit’s round bar load-leveling hitches. Each hitch has two grease fittings that provide frequent lubrication to the spring bars, reducing friction between parts. As a bonus, these components provide minimal maintenance and reduced risks of damage.
Additionally, this distribution hitch has one of the top-tier tension strengths I’ve experienced in this type of product. It can securely carry and tow up to 14,000 lbs. of gross trailer weight with relatively minimal effort.
The manufacturer also finished each part with a durable black powder finish. This top coat is scuff and scratch resistant, and it helps reduce elemental harm, such as dirt, rain, and UV, to the unit.
The kit comes with a 2-inch shank, which does a great job in maintaining the hitch’s level. It’s also replaceable with other shanks, promoting excellent flexibility.
Its sway control is a breeze to assemble and install, and it works as intended. This feature is also easy to disassemble when it’s not needed. The included trailer ball also comes pre-torqued, improving installation time further.
- Increased longevity and little maintenance due to reduced friction between parts
- It can carry heavier-than-average trailer loads
- Weather resistant and durable black powder coat finish
- Flexible shank options
- Fairly straightforward installation and disassembly
- Pre-torqued trailer ball
- Requires power tools
7. Fastway 92-00-1000 e2 2-Point Trunnion Hitch
This hitch is a complete package for sway control, weight distribution, and quality craftsmanship.
Made with safety in mind, this kit has a design that reduces the need for chains used by many old hitches. It magnificently maintains efficient weight distribution across its frame, improving steering and stopping efficacy.
Its sway control mechanism functions to make hitching and unhitching hassle-free. Towing in hazardous terrains, such as downhill paths, while making quick turns isn’t worrisome with this kit attached to the trailer.
It’s also important to note that the sway control can even prevent unnecessary trailer movement when subject to high winds. The 2-point rigid brackets worked as expected as the trailer had little to no movement from the hitch while driving against strong winds.
As with the case with other Fastway hitches, this model doesn’t require disassembly while backing or turning. I can leave the hitch attached as I back into parking spaces, and the trailer turns as intended.
This hitch has trunnion bars that extend from the shank. Unlike chain-style load distribution hitches, the ground clearance provided by this product is a sight to behold. It’s unlikely that the kit will hit many obstructions on the road, thanks to its trunnion bars’ design.
- Reduced need for chains
- Sway control is dependable
- Hassle-free hitching and unhitching
- It doesn’t require disassembly while backing or turning
- Excellent ground clearance
- The shank tends to make noises
8. Andersen Hitches 3326 Weight Distribution Hitch
If you’re tired of bouncing trailer hitches, then check out this product.
It raises the bar in the ‘no sway’ category. It takes advantage of a unique mechanism to transfer weight across its construction. As a result, the product handles loads without encountering unwanted stress. Additionally, this chain and spring design create little to no noise during operation.
Unlike some hitches on the market, this product doesn’t require lubrication. The ball and coupler move following each other, eliminating friction and the need for lubricants.
Potential buyers should be aware as this kit isn’t compatible with all couplers. Particularly, it’s not compatible with 88007, 88010, 88555, and 88600 couplers from Atwood.
However, this hitch doesn’t use spring bars. Thus, it’s relatively easy to discover which trailer weight is compatible with it.
Thankfully, this product is quite lightweight compared to other models. It has an overall weight that falls under 60 lbs. I still needed to pull a little muscle to get it installed, but it didn’t require a whole crew. In contrast, it’s possible to find some hitches on the market that weigh over 100 lbs.
- Efficiently manages heavy loads while being silent
- No need for lubrication
- Relatively lightweight frame
- Streamlined design with no bars
- Not compatible with all couplers
9. Husky 31423 Weight Distribution Hitch
Say goodbye to buying weight distribution hitches frequently upon purchasing this kit.
This hitch is covered in black polyester. With this additional layer, longevity is better than that of other products. As a bonus, the frame is corrosion and rust resistant, making it a cost-effective purchase.
The hitch also handles a gross trailer weight of up to 12,000 lbs. Additionally, its tongue weight range is 801 to 1,200 lbs. These figures translate to powerful towing prowess suited for pulling many trailers and RVs.
Its head design is also easy to assemble, providing a quick installation. Moreover, this design choice makes it easy to access the ball shank. The balls, however, aren’t included with the kit, so an extra purchase is required.
The head can also accept varying spring bar weight capacities, thereby promoting optimal versatility. It also means that I don’t have to purchase different spring bars. Add this trait to its relatively reasonable price, and I can safely say that it’s one of the best purchases I have made.
Yet another excellent feature that comes with this product is its dual sway control platform. In other words, it manages to reduce wobbling at two primary points instead of one. Connected trailers and RVs don’t move around a lot when connected to this hitch.
- Corrosion and rust resistant frame
- Powerful towing prowess
- Versatile head design that’s easy to assemble
- Reasonable price tag
- Manages unwanted sways efficiently
- Comes with chains and assembly hardware
- Balls are sold separately
10. CURT 17500 Weight Distribution Hitch
This weight distribution hitch is the culmination of compact design with superior durability.
With dimensions of about 30 x 13 x 12 inches, this product is one of the smaller models out there. But, it’s relatively smaller design shouldn’t fool the untrained eye as this kit is hard-wearing to its core.
Most of its components are made of steel, which is corrosion resistant while handling more than the average bumps and dings. Its stabilizer can also handle loads of up to 10,000 lbs. Although it’s not as strong as other models, this strength should be powerful enough to pull many trailers and RVs.
Next, the hitch’s integrated sway control reduces unnecessary wobbles regardless of the towing vehicle’s speed.
Installation is quite easy, partly because of the 2-5/16 inch ball that comes pre-torqued, a tilting head, and a set of hex castle nuts. There’re also the two trunnion bars, offering enough ground clearance. This trait also makes this kit highly ideal for tall vehicles like pickup trucks and SUVs.
Another excellent feature is its adjustable support bracket. With it, it’s possible to customize the spring bars’ tension for flexible towing.
- Relatively compact design
- Corrosion resistant steel construction
- Sway control works as intended regardless of speed
- Easy installation with included components
- Adequate ground clearance, ideal for tall vehicles
- Flexible towing thanks to adjustable support bracket
- It can only tow up to 10,000 lbs.
- Makes noise during operation
11. Blue Ox BXW1500 SWAYPRO Hitch
This weight distribution hitch is a “What You See is What You Get” deal, and that’s a good thing.
This kit comes with a pre-adjusted head. Hence, it doesn’t need additional fine-tuning. It also means that installation is a relatively straightforward experience.
Lifting the trailer tongue weight to release pressure on the bars is also quite easy. It makes removing these components much easier.
The highlight of this kit is its excellent sway control. Wobbles are practically non-existent with this model. It’s highly resistant to strong winds, and the anti-sway function kicks in at opportune moments. It can even prevent jack-knifing, particularly during sharp turns.
Backing up with this hitch attached to a carrier, trailer, or RV is a stress-free endeavor. I don’t need to get out of my car to undo the chains when backing up towards a driveway or parking lot.
Note that it’s a complete kit out of the box. In other words, there are no extra purchases necessary to assemble this product. The package even comes with a shank and pin, unlike other hitches on the market.
- No additional fine-tuning during installation
- Removing bars is easy
- Practically non-existent wobbling
- Chains can stay in place while backing up
- Complete package with shank and pin
- The included wrench is difficult to use
12. Reese 49913 Wd Rb Pro Series
Hitch shoppers looking for a relatively inexpensive kit may find what they’re looking for in this product.
This hitch from Reese comes into the market with a fairly reasonable price tag. But, don’t make the mistake of assuming this is a low-quality product. It’s because cost efficiency meets quality with this model.
Its weighty 102-lb. frame comes with a durable construction specifically engineered to provide safety-focused features. One characteristic to note is its sway control, allowing connected trailers to stay wobble-free during drives.
A couple of reasons for its fantastic anti-sway features are the sway control ball and 2-5/16 inch hitch ball. These components come pre-installed with the kit so there’s no need to buy them separately.
A nice addition to this product is its 10-year limited warranty. Users can take advantage of this guarantee for parts damaged from natural causes.
This product can also pull up to 10,000 lbs. of load, which tends to be a lot of carriers, trailers, and RVs. However, it could be better as some models can cater to 12,000 lb. loads.
- Relatively inexpensive price meets quality construction
- Wobble-free drives
- Pre-installed sway control devices
- 10-year limited warranty
- Works with any car with a 2 inch receiver
- It can only pull up to 10,000-lb. loads
What To Know Before Buying Weight Distribution Hitches
Before anything else, ask yourself if you need a weight distribution hitch. It’s because most tow vehicles should already have tow bar specifications with a maximum tow ball weight. If the built-in tow ball weight can already handle the load to be pulled, then there’s no need to add to the existing force.
But, if your tow vehicle’s maximum allowable tow ball weight is lesser than the required amount, then you need a weight distribution hitch.
After coming to this conclusion, it’s time to select the correct product. You can start by determining the amount of weight the additional load adds to your vehicle’s tow ball. Keep in mind that exceeding the maximum tow ball weight is both hazardous and illegal. Thus, an accurate reading is always a must.
Avoid legal and safety concerns by reading the ball load, which is usually indicated in the compliance plate. However, some cases might exist wherein this piece of information isn’t found in the product or its packaging. Hence, you may need to measure the weight yourself.
Measuring the tow ball weight requires a tow ball scale. It’s still possible to measure the weight without using this tool, but it’s going to be quite difficult. Bathroom scales are suitable options if you don’t want to spend extra cash to purchase tow ball scales.
After figuring out the tow ball weight, it’s time to browse the market for hitches that are compatible with your vehicle’s A-frame. Please note that you have two bar length options that can fit A-frames: 30 inch and 28 inch bars. Buying a hitch with the wrong bar length is like throwing money out the window.
Also, it’s essential to consider the brakes on the towing vehicle. Weight distribution hitches tend to stop manual override brakes from functioning correctly. Note that it’s still possible to use your car’s brakes while the hitch is attached, but it might require harder braking.
Other essential factors to consider while shopping for weight distribution hitches are tow vehicle height, A-frame depth, shank type, and price.
The Different Types of Weight Distribution Hitches
Different weight distribution hitches have different characteristics. Purchasing the correct model prevents buyer’s remorse. Some of the types of weight distribution hitches you can find are:
- Hitches with Built-In Anti-Sway Controls
As their name implies, some hitches have anti-sway mechanisms built into their constructions. Therefore, no additional purchases might be necessary to help reduce wobbles during drives.
- Add-On Anti-Sway Systems
Some hitches don’t have built-in anti-sway features. Hence, these models tend to focus on pulling carriers and travel trailers. Shoppers can purchase friction bars that connect to these units to help reduce trailer sway.
- Electric Stabilizers
These models generally come with electronic brakes. They activate when they receive signals from the tow car brakes to stop the connected towed vehicles. Electric stabilizers may also help reduce trailer sway, but only to a certain degree.
Aside from these types, other hitch models on the market include those with two- to four-point control stabilizers. 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.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Weight Distribution Hitches?
If you look back at the anti sway trailer hitch reviews above, you’ll know that even the top-tier kits tend to have pros and cons. Continue reading this section to know the benefits and drawbacks of using these devices:
- The Benefits of Using Weight Distribution Hitches
One of the best benefits of using weight distribution hitches is their ability to allocate heavy loads across their frames efficiently.
Note that weight distribution is different from weight carrying. Weight carrying hitches tend to be usable for all trailer classes. On the other hand, weight distributing hitches may have compatibility issues with some trailer and tow vehicle choices. However, these kits tend to perform better than their weight carrying counterparts at distributing loads equally.
Hence, using load distribution hitches promotes fewer road accidents that might be caused by inefficient weight allocations.
Another benefit is the addition of trailer sway control features. Many modern kits now have anti-sway mechanisms that significantly reduce wobbling, which might otherwise cause road accidents.
- The Drawbacks of Using Weight Distribution Hitches
But, remember that weight distribution hitches aren’t cure-alls as some users might suggest. You should expect some drawbacks accompanying the kits you use.
For instance, some hitches tend to exert copious amounts of force on caravan and vehicle chassis, particularly on their tow bars. Hence, if the sturdiness of these bars isn’t up to par, certain hitches might have enough force to remove these components from their bases forcefully.
Another drawback to watching out for is inefficient leveling. For example, if your towing vehicle or caravan has a high tow ball load of about 250 kg, then the attached hitch might create an imbalance. Thus, consider checking the weight distribution hitch with sway control reviews before making your purchase. That way, you’re not going to purchase the wrong model.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who makes the most trusted weight distribution hitches?
Different manufacturers tend to create different hitches with unique characteristics. However, some developers may produce better-quality products than others.
Take CURT as an excellent example; this company has developed high-quality hitches throughout the years.
It blossomed from a humble firm with origins dating back to 1993. Back then, it was a trailer ball distribution business that existed at the back of a car. Business flourished steadily, which now developed into its own hitch manufacturing company.
If you’re undecided about buying hitches from CURT, consider checking out CURT weight distribution hitch reviews first. That way, you won’t feel any buyer’s remorse upon purchasing your preferred CURT model.
Another brand to consider is Husky as this company has been making hitches and other towing equipment for years. A potential buyer can find quality Husky products like tongue jacks, brakes, and cargo carriers, to name a few. Still, don’t forget to check husky weight distribution hitch reviews first to make sure you’re going to purchase the right product.
Finally, there’s Andersen, which has been in the hitch-making industry for over 50 years. Like CURT, Andersen Hitches began with humble beginnings. It started with a single-room setup that transformed into a manufacturing company.
Also called Andersen Manufacturing, this company sells top-quality products from load distribution hitches to fifth wheels for travel trailers.
If you’re still in the deciding phase, do check out Andersen weight distribution hitch reviews.
How does a weight distribution hitch work?
Connecting a trailer to a vehicle will increase the load carried by that vehicle’s rear. Adding extra mass can promote road accidents because of the weight imbalance.
Weight distribution hitches aim to correct load imbalance issues, thereby reducing or preventing potential road incidents. These devices work by restoring balance across axles in tow vehicles and connected trailers. Reliable hitches function to allow vehicles to be driven at the optimum speed safely.
These devices alter the point where a trailer’s load is transferred to the towing vehicle. The outcome is an operation similar to the weight distribution mechanism of a wheelbarrow wherein the hitch dispenses the weight across the axles of the trailer and vehicle.
Note that there are four major components found in different hitch models, which are:
- Ball mount
- Sway control
- Hitch receiver
- Spring bar assembly
Each component fulfills a specific purpose for the efficient functioning of a hitch. For instance, the sway control should work as its name implies. This element should reduce or prevent unnecessary wobbles that might happen to the trailer while driving.
It’s important to acquire the top-tier hitches on the market. Sacrificing quality in place of saving a few bucks may result in uneven weight distribution, raising the likelihood of potential hazards happening.
Moreover, hazardous situations may occur if the towing vehicle and trailer have a less relative tongue weight. If so, the trailer swaying might be relatively high, which will, in turn, make it go out of control.
Therefore, it’s imperative to research the appropriate models for your vehicles before making your purchase. For example, you might use the Internet and search for keywords like equalizer hitch review to search for consumer feedback about this brand.
Can you back up with a weight distribution hitch?
The answer to that question is, “it depends.”
Although it’s possible to back up with some hitches, you might need to disassemble them first. To do this, you need to disconnect the friction control bars, which may or may not be a difficult endeavor, depending on your model.
However, modern solutions are available to allow backing up without frequent disassembly. Take, for example, the Fastway 92-00-1000. This kit has a design that doesn’t require users to disassemble the device to back up.
Still, there are hitches, particularly old models, that prohibit reversing. These kits don’t allow towing vehicles backing up because the motion can potentially damage their systems.
Even if you have these relatively old kits, it might still be possible to back up into parking spaces without disassembly. But, the motion might only be possible if you’re reversing in a straight line. It’s another story if you’re turning while reversing.
How do you install a weight distribution hitch?
Many hitches tend to follow industry-standard installation procedures. However, some kits might be easier to install than others.
The following are the standard steps needed to install weight distribution hitches properly:
- Step 1: Measure the Towing Vehicle and Trailer’s Height
Make sure that both your vehicle and trailer are on a flat, level plane for this step. Use the trailer’s tongue jack to make the trailer parallel to the ground. Then, measure and record the vehicle and trailer’s height from the ground. Measure the distance between the ground and the coupler, and from the ground to the rear and front bumper.
- Step 2: Attach the Shank and Hitch Head
Next, insert the hitch’s shank into the receiver tube. Make sure that the shank is in the tube fully. Secure this part of the installation with a hitch pin and clip.
Once the shank is in the tube, position the hitch head assembly over the shank. The head should be in a raised position to make the trailer ball’s top one to three inches above the coupler.
Mount the components with one bolt at the bottom to secure them. However, don’t tighten this bolt with a nut.
- Step 3: Adjust the Head
Before you proceed with this step, your hitch might already have a pre-torqued head. If so, you can skip this step.
Otherwise, pivot the head down before placing two washers on the adjustment rod. Then, insert the adjustment rod with the washers into the head’s lower hole.
Rotate the head into the shank’s mounting position afterward. You’ll know you did it properly if the components are in a straight or slightly-tilted position.
Finally, put the other bolt into the top hole of the hitch head. Fasten both bolts with nuts and washers to secure.
- Step 4: Spring Bar Installation and Trailer Coupling
Attach and mount the spring bars to the hitch head. Note that some hitches already have their spring bars attached upon purchase.
Raise the trailer coupler after attaching the spring bars (if they’re not attached yet). Then, couple the trailer to the trailer ball after the tow vehicle’s backed up.
- Step 5: Raise the Trailer Jack
Lift the coupling point where the coupler meets the trailer ball with a trailer jack. The coupler should be three inches above the recommended level position.
- Step 6: Attach the Spring Bar Chains
Place the spring bar frame brackets on the trailer’s frame with the help of the chains (which should be included in most packages). Mount the brackets onto the trailer’s frame with bolts.
Attach the spring bar chains to the brackets, but make sure that both sides have the same distance for their vertical spacing. Use a lift handle to pry the brackets to secure them into their locked positions.
- Step 7: Fine-Tuning the Hitch
At this point, you may have already installed the weight distribution hitch. But, some fine-tuning might be needed.
If so, adjust the hitch by re-measuring the distance between the ground and the front and rear bumpers. The measured distance should be about half-an-inch of the original measurement. Adjust the tilt of the hitch head if the distance drastically changed during the installation.
How to care?
Maintaining a weight distribution hitch might depend on the materials used in its construction.
For example, maintaining the structural integrity of steel components may require frequent cleaning. Basic routine cleaning of steel needs warm soap and water application with a soft sponge. You may also use gentle detergents, but not solutions with harsh chemicals as these compounds might deteriorate the material.
Also, don’t forget to read the instruction manual included with the kit. If for some reason, your model didn’t come with an instruction manual, you can check online for educational videos about maintaining your specific hitch model.
Finally, consider covering the hitch when it’s not in use. Use a sheet or tarp as these fabrics keep debris from falling into the frame. These seemingly tiny objects might become potential hazards that may ruin the hitch’s durability and performance.
Is it OK to oversize weight distribution hitch?
It’s not recommended to oversize a load leveling hitch because it will make your ride difficult. Make sure that your light weight distribution hitch stays within the tongue limit of your vehicle. Going overboard won’t only make the ride stiff but also put a risk to the brake and axle.
How long will a weight distribution hitch last?
With proper use and maintenance, a camper weight distribution hitch can last up to ten years or even longer. It’s time to replace the unit if you see rust or any excessive damage on the components. The good news is that you can replace individual components instead of replacing the whole system.
Are anti sway bars the same as weight distribution hitch?
No, anti-sway bars aren’t the same as a weight distribution hitch. Although they serve the same purpose of making your ride smooth, these tools accomplish the goal differently.
While an anti-sway bar uses resistance to help distribute the load and reduce the sway impact, a weight distribution hitch transfers the weight to the front and back axles.
The installation is also different for the two pieces of equipment. The sway bar hitches for campers are typically attached to the vehicle’s suspension, whereas the weight distribution hitch goes to the bumper pull ball mount.
You can never find an anti-sway bar that includes a weight distribution, but recent weight distribution hitch models have incorporated an anti-sway control mechanism. This makes weight distribution hitches more versatile.
Can you pull more with a weight distribution hitch?
No, you can’t pull more even when you use a weight distributing trailer hitch. What the hitch does is level the weight between your trailer and towed vehicle. This way, you’ll have a smooth and safe ride even when you reach the maximum towing or payload capacity of your vehicle.
Does weight distribution hitch reduce tongue weight?
Generally, the weight distribution doesn’t reduce the tongue weight. Using the spring bars, the system only lifts the tongue to hold some of its weight. Doing so will shift the weight from the rear axle to the other axles of the setup.
As a result, the weight distribution helps spread the trailer’s tongue weight evenly. This reduces the risk of losing control when pulling a trailer.
Why are weight distribution hitches noisy?
Sound is normal for a top weight distribution hitch because it means that it’s working. The sound usually happens when the trailer gets in contact with the hitch each time you make a sharp turn. Friction between surfaces results in sounds.
If your weight distribution hitch uses L-brackets, expect some noise. When the spring arms slide along these brackets, they create a little sound.
One way to reduce the noise is to grease the friction surfaces. You can also add an anti-rattle clamp to remove the rattling sounds when you move the trailer.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve reached the end of this article, you should now have more knowledge about choosing the best weight distribution hitch on the market.
To summarize things, remember that different hitch models exist. Hence, it’s paramount to choose the correct kit that can satisfy specific requirements.
Still, if you want to go with my recommendation, consider choosing the Blue Ox BXW1500. This hitch has top-quality features, such as superb trailer sway reduction and an easy-to-follow installation guide.
Equip your tow vehicles with superior-quality weight distribution hitches, and you might not go back to low-quality models again.
Okay, so I’m Philip Lopez. I join Riverside Trailer as an editor, where I will be doing research for both content and reviews. I contribute to studies aimed at understanding the most typical problems encountered by RVers on the road. I also keep up with the newest RVing gadget innovations so that I can promptly evaluate and recommend the best options.