Best Weight Distribution Hitch Reviews

Best Weight Distribution Hitch Reviews

Do you have a heavy load to tow? Then you will need to think more than just your vehicle’s capability. You will have to start with getting to know the engine power so that you are assured of safe hauling. Depending on the speeds, distance, and road conditions of your travel, there will be a need for you to consider the stability of your trailer. Since there is always a possibility of swaying, it will be good to consider going for a weight-distribution hitch to ensure that your heavy hauls are stable on rough terrains and in wind. Before you set on your next trailing journey, check out my best weight distribution hitch reviews to get the best out of the many in the market.

Comparison Of Weight Distribution Hitch

#1

EAZ LIFT 48056 600 lbs Elite Kit, Includes Distribution, Sway Control and 2-5/16


1. EAZ Lift Weight Distribution Hitch 48056 600 lbs

  • Constructed from engineered steel
  • Features a superior sway control
  • Complete installation kit included
  • Over 1,600 positive reviews

4.7 of 5 stars

#2

Pro Series Reese 49903 Wd Rb 1000# W/Sway


2. Pro Series Reese With Sway - 49903

  • Fabricated head and welded hitch bar
  • Features a preinstalled sway control
  • Complete installation kit included
  • Over 200 positive reviews

3.8 of 5 stars

#3

 Equal-i-zer 4-point Sway Control Hitch


3. Equal-i-zer Sway Control Hitch With 4 Points

  • Constructed from high-quality steel
  • Features a 4-point sway control system 
  • Easy to install
  • Over 300 positive reviews

4.5 of 5 stars

#4

Reese Strait-Line (66074) 1,200 lb Trunnion Style Weight Distribution Kit


4. Reese Straight Line Trunnion Style Weight Distribution Kit - 66074

  • Constructed from powder coated steel
  • Features a dual-cam sway control system 
  • Easy to install
  • Over 30 positive reviews

4.5 of 5 stars

#5

10K RB Fastway e2 2-point sway control hitch


5. 10K RB Fastway Sway Control Hitch

  • Constructed from corrosion-resistant powder coated steel
  • Features a 2-point integrated sway control
  • 10K round bar and a 2-5/16 inch hitch ball included
  • Over 200 positive reviews

4.6 of 5 stars

#6

CURT 17007 Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch Black Up to Up to 14,000 lbs, 2-Inch Shank


6. CURT 17007 Round Bar Hitch

  • Constructed from powder coated steel
  • Features adjustable rugged support brackets
  • Easy to install
  • Over 60 positive reviews

4.6 of 5 stars

#7

Husky 32218 Center Line TS with Spring Bars - 800 lb. to 1,200 lb. Tongue Weight Capacity (2-5/16


7. Husky Hitch 32218 Center Line

  • Constructed from high-quality steel
  • Features combined sway control and weight distribution system
  • 1200 lbs. tongue capacity 
  • Over 400 positive reviews

4.7 of 5 stars

#8

Andersen Mfg 3350 No Sway Weight Distribution Hitch44; 4 In. Drop And Rise44; 2.31 In. Ball44; 14K44; 5 In. - 6 In. Frame.


8. Anderson Mfg Weight Distribution Hitch 3350

  • Constructed from high-quality materials
  • Features a no-sway grease-less system 
  • Easy to install
  • Over 100 positive reviews

4.4 of 5 stars

#9

Blue Ox BXW1000 SWAYPRO Weight Distributing Hitch 1000lb Tongue Weight for Standard Coupler with Clamp-On Latches


9. Blue OX BXW 1000 SwayPro Hitch For Weight Distribution

  • Constructed from high-quality steel
  • Features a self-locking device and fine tuning
  • Easy to install
  • Over 70 positive reviews

4.3 of 5 stars

#10

Husky 31423 Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with Bolt-Together Ball Mount/Shank Assembly 1200 Lbs Max Tongue


10. Husky Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch 31423

  • 801 - 1200 lbs. tongue capacity
  • Features a dual sway control platform
  • Easy to install
  • Over 70 positive reviews

4.6 of 5 stars

Weight Distribution Hitch Reviews

1. EAZ Lift Weight Distribution Hitch 48056 600 lbs

This was the first patented weight distributing system which was found in North America for the first time, over 50 years ago. And since it is still in the market up to date, it means that it is a good hitch. It uses fewer parts and interchangeable, springs made from steel bars and machine tampered, forged for longer, with latching action which is positive.

If you decide that this is your latch of choice, then you will be able to enjoy some of the best features that it comes with. Its kit includes completely adjustable, the bolt-together mount which you will use for changing the ball heights with the left and right-hand sway control mounts.

It has all the necessary installation parts which include hookup brackets, chains 2 – 5/26 inches hitch ball, spring bars, shank hitch pin, ball mount, and bolt and clip package for adjustable hitches.

It has a superior sway control which will create noise produces while reducing road clearance. When you don’t require the control, such as when you are on oily or icy roads, the controls can easily be released while the cam action type sway will depend on the weight of the hitch to operate and cannot be released. The controls also feature the ability to keep the sway control even when turning. This will in the process, provide you with a comfortable control of your trailer.

It is manufactured from engineered steels utilizing modern processes of manufacturing including forged-rolled bending, precision drilling, high-temperature treatment of heat, and oil quench. You can count on it for strength, durability, and precision engineering to get you safely on the road.

To crown it all, the manufacturer due to the fact that they seem to have confidence in their product, it comes with a 5-year warranty.

Pros

  • Five-year warranty
  • Constructed from durable material
  • Long-lasting
  • Superior sway control
  • Complete installation kit

Cons

  • Takes time to install

  • 2. Pro Series Reese With Sway - 49903

    If you are in the market to purchase an affordable decent quality hitch due to a tight budget, then this could be the one for you. It has a sway  control mechanism which is heavy-duty. The kit will be able to provide you with everything which you need for high performance and safe towing.

    Its sway control is preinstalled, meaning, you will not have to spend several hours in having to balance your hitch as per your tow vehicle specifications. Its balls and the sway control are pre-torqued and you can easily use it with either u-bolts or chains.

    It comes with a complete kit thus, you will have all the hardware and tools that you require to install it on your tow vehicle. You will be able to find the mounting hardware together with the sway control for friction in the kit. This means that there will be no need for you to do other purchases for installation.

    It comes with a 10-year warranty from the manufacturer meaning, they have confidence in their product and thus, no need to worry about its durability. It has a welded bar and a fabricated head to ensure that it gives you a performance that is long-lasting.

    Pros

    • It will give you safety, improved towing and high-quality performance
    • It has a limited warranty of 10 years
    • The hitch balls and the sway control comes when they are installed and pre-torqued.
    • Fabricated head and hitch bar which is welded for lasting performance
    • It comes with a full kit for easy installation.

    Cons

  • The bar length is too short and thus the kit will keep the towing vehicle and the trailer too close.

  • 3. Equal-i-zer Sway Control Hitch With 4 Points

    If your focus is on the sway control, then this might be the hitch for you. It uses a 4 point sway control system to be able to provide your trailer with the highest resistance to sway. When it comes to weight ratings, it has 5 options which include hitches which are suitable from 400/4000 to 1400/14000 lbs trailer loads.

    If you compare it to some of its competitors which are in the same price bracket, it does lack in terms of weight rating but it makes up for it with the sway control which is impressive. The sway control is a major feature on any best weight distribution hitch.

    This means that it can be great for use if you are an RVers who need both weight distribution and sway control. It is made in the USA from steel which is high quality, using a technology which is sophisticated. Its brackets are of a unique rigid design which is both flexible and easy to install.

    Its rotational friction installation point ensures that you get maximum safety and the other good thing about it is that, it is compatible with most trailers.

    Pros

    • It fits 2 inches receivers
    • There are two solid bars made of steel which are mounted directly on the brackets
    • It comes with a shank that has a 3-inch drop and 7-inch rise
    • It is designed to work with various trailers
    • It comes with all the mounting tools and hardware.

    Cons

  • Not durable

  • 4. Reese Straight Line Trunnion Style Weight Distribution Kit - 66074

    It features dual cam sway to ensure that trailer sway is stopped before it even starts. It has powder-coated, flexible, steel, trunnion spring bars which create a level ride for both your tow vehicle and trailer. Its shank is sold separately.

    If that is the hitch you want to go for, it might just give you the control that you are yearning for at a price which is affordable. It is a hitch which is easy to install and it will ensure that the hitch remains in a straight line behind the tow vehicle.

    The dual-cam high-performance system controls the sway. If the sway is strong, the dual cam system tends to work hard to stop it. It combines weight distribution with a proactive way to ensure that everything is under control. Adjustment and installation are very easy. It is self-centered and fully automated. The spring bars of the hooking up will hook up automatically on  the sway control.

    If you install it, there will be reduced noise as there are no U shaped bolts to  interfere with the bottle racks or Items on the A-frame mount. It comes with specific reference points. The centerline is easy to adjust. And to crown it all, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty.

    Pros

    • Adjustable spring bar tension
    • The head assembly has a raised, forged ball platform
    • It is easy to achieve the desired tilt
    • Limited lifetime warranty
    • Comes with dual sway control cams

    Cons

  • Casting quality of the head, not high quality

  • 5. 10K RB Fastway Sway Control Hitch

    I found this hitch to be great especially due to its 2 points, steel on steel friction which works as trailer sway and prevention, giving correct and well-distributed weight. The sway control bracket which is adequate aid to ensure that the trailer remains in line along with the vehicle towing. It also has an adjustable shank.

    If you are looking for around hitch then this could be the one. It comes with a unique design which is compatible with surge break and electric actuators. It has an integrated sway control that works as a 2-point to limit the side to side movement.

    The brackets are very helpful to ensure that, the trailer is in line by making the spring bars to remain in their proper place for a system which is strict. The steel on steel friction helps in reducing the sway as a result of plans and winds. You don’t have to lift the chain which assists in removing movement which is unwanted.

    Right control of leveling and stability are provided by to the trailer and the vehicle by the use of spring bar flex of the trunnion style. There is no need of drill but only the adjustable brakes which you adjust on the trailer frame to maintain weight distribution that is even.

    Its construction comprises a powder layer of steel which is highly durable and resistant to corrosion. It is a feature which makes it more comfortable and unique to use because the snap up lever helps in easily configuring it and thereby, minimizing the lifting which is required by a jack for the trailer.

    Pros

    • It distributes weight evenly in a faster manner
    • It comes with a 10K round bar and a 2-5/16 inch hitch ball
    • It can easily fit in 2 inch
    • The backing up allows between 500 lbs to 700 lbs
    • Its sway control is great

    Cons

    • It produces a lot of sounds when in use
    • Its configuration is complicated

    6. CURT 17007 Round Bar Hitch

    This is another budget solution which promises to bring stabilization which is excellent to your trailer as you drive it along the road. It uses chain for stabilization and comes with 2 round bar spring bars to control the sway. When it comes to installation, it is very easy even if you are a newbie in this field. The instructions are detailed and easy to follow.

    Due to the fact that it uses round spring bars, it has a low ground clearance and thus, good if you have a low vehicle. The fitting for the 12-inch shank is standard and it uses the regular 2 inches x 2 inches tube openings and thus, it will not be a problem to fit it on your trailer. To me, it looks a great ergonomic towing system which will ensure that you get proper trailer control while you are on the road.

    Its head assembly is made of steel which is a heavy-duty that seems durable as well as offer level control which is precise. The powder coating improves its resilience and ruggedness against harsh weather and damages.  When you require to make an adjustment, it will not be a problem with this particular hitch. Though you might find it a little bit noisy due to the fact that, it uses chain system but apart from that, it tends to work well and could be one of the best weight distribution hitches with sway control which you can bet your money on.

    Pros

    • Great for heavy-duty application
    • Quick and intuitive installation
    • The support brackets are adjustable and rugged
    • Compatible with a variety of trailer classes
    • It is engineered with sturdiness, durability, and precision

    Cons

  • The wings of the sway control get in the way of the trailer tongue
  • It can be noisy due to the use of chains

  • 7. Husky Hitch 32218 Center Line

    Its efficiency made me include it in my top 10 best weight distribution hitches. With its efficiency, you are guaranteed good value for your money. It is a model which features a combination of sway control and weight distribution system in a single product. What it means is that there will be no extra purchases for parts which makes it quite efficient.

    The noise produced by the model is reduced through some modifications which the manufacturer has included. You will also find out that, most of its components are constructed from steel which adds extra durability and stability. As compared to other hitches in its class, this one tends to be less heavy with a tongue weight of 1200 pounds and being able to accommodate 12000 pounds of gross trailer weight.

    The spring bars, head, and bracket work together to ensure that you get a ride that is smooth and highly responsive. It will be a ride that will be less noisy as compared to other models in its category. It comes with the trunnion style of springs bars which match most popular weight ranges, thereby delivering integrated weight distribution which is unmatched. The sway control is of superior performance. It also has a great ground clearance making it have unmatched value.

    Pros

    • Has a new technology
    • Generates noise at a minimum
    • Instructions are easy to follow
    • Constructed from high-quality steel
    • It can tow up to 12000 pounds of trailer weight

    Cons

  • Easy for the area of friction to rust and thus regular maintenance required
  • Can be challenging to insert the spring bars in the brackets

  • 8. Anderson Mfg Weight Distribution Hitch 3350

    If you are searching for a hitch with no sway and greaseless system, then this could be one of the options for you. It is constructed from high-quality materials with new technology and advancement which makes it be very innovative yet simple.

    You will get it in 4 inches up to 8 inches drop which doesn’t raise the bar more. It comes with an anti-sway which helps in reducing the role of the vehicle when there are any irregularities on the road.  It is a product which is constructed with materials which are superior where the shanks and the bolts don’t require any greasing. They work smoothly and properly without grease. This system which is grease-free allows the balls and the coupler to move as one. When it comes to setting it up, it is very easy.

    Another great feature of this weight distribution hitch that might just attract you to it is its ability to dampen motion. That is what helps to bring down the bounce of the vehicle, providing a smooth and safer ride. When you remove one pin, it

    easily unhitches from your tow vehicle.

    Pros

    • It doesn’t produce any noise
    • It doesn’t have any sway control
    • It has a quick and easy setup
    • The bounce is decreased by the motion dampening system
    • Coupler and ball move as one and thus, no need for greasing
    • Highly durable

    Cons 

  • At times the anti-sway system doesn’t work

  • 9. Blue OX BXW 1000 SwayPro Hitch For Weight Distribution

    Bearing in mind that the company manufacturing this particular hitch is American, chances are that, it is a high-quality product that has passed through the stringent of quality checks before being allowed in the market. If you are an RV dealer, this could be the right choice for you for your several vacations. It is likely going to make your vacation both safe and fun.

    To prevent swaying, it comes with built-in sway prevention that ensures that, you don’t have to worry about your trailer swaying dangerously as you drive along the road.  This hitch makes it possible for the trailer to remain in line, which is the greatest thing that you require, by ensuring that, it evenly distributes the weight on the trailer axle.  With that, your vehicle and the trailer will be able to maintain a good sense of balance.

    It has strong spring bars which are firmly held in place to ensure that, your trailer is always in line. There is no need for fine-tuning of the bar after you purchase the hitch as the manufacturer ensures that, all is done. It is a weight hitch which comes with everything that you require for installation purposes.

    Other important feature of this  particular hitch which you will be able to enjoy in case you decide to purchase it is that, it is a device which is self-locking, which is a convenience which I am sure that, you are going to enjoy. The tongue has a weight capacity of 1000 pounds, which will likely work well with most trailers.

    What you need to ensure is that you don’t exceed the weight so that, you can get the most out of this particular hitch for a long period of time.

    Pros

    • It is noiseless
    • It is easy to install
    • Comes when it is already fine-tuned meaning, no need to fine-tune it again
    • It is long-lasting
    • Constructed from steel and thus a high-quality product

    Cons

  • No corrosion protection yet it is constructed from steel and thus, not good for all weather conditions.

  • 10. Husky Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch 31423

    If you are looking to add some class and personality to your towing vehicle, then this might be what you need as a hitch. It has some great design features with a tongue weight of about 801 to 1200lbs with a total gross trailer weight of about 12000 lbs.

    Its head design is compelling, providing minimum installation period and with it, you can easily be able to access the hitch ball shank without encountering any difficulties. It can handle larger loads and provide great stability to trailers.

    It features a dual sway control platform, dual friction sway control setting, raised ball platform, and a brake system which is solid to ensure added stamina and stability for enhanced control when driving.

    With the dual friction sway control, it ensures that the brake pad system does not experience inertia when the weather conditions are to the extreme or when the road conditions are bad.

    It has a great finish to ensure that it doesn’t corrode, rust, or gather dust. The locking pins and lift bracket pivot location makes it easier for you, that is, if you will purchase it, to attach the hitch onto your trailer very fast.

    Pros

    • Easy and fast installation
    • Works well even when the weather and road conditions are extreme
    • Great finish to prevent dust, corrosion, and rust
    • Compelling head design
    • Dual sway control

    Cons

    • The locking system is not great

    How Does A Weight Distributing Hitch Work?

    When you use a weight-distribution hitch on your trailer, it will be able to improve handling due to the fact that, it will cause the weight to be distributed away from the tongue and onto other vehicle axles.

    Instead of it being concentrated on the axle at the rear of your towing vehicle, it is spread around the axles of the trailer and of the front axle of the towing vehicle. You will have to ensure that you don’t exceed the gross axle weight limit for the axle at the rear.  As a rule, if your trailer weighs more than 50%of the weight of the towing vehicle, you have to use a weight-distribution hitch.

    Without a weight-distribution hitch, your towing trailer’s tongue will transfer the weight to your rear axle. The results will be that the rear will sag and the front will raise causing issues with performance with your vehicle and it will not act as it will on a normal instance. The traction, the braking, steering, and other issues will be apparent and if you are on a long journey, it can become very dangerous and tiresome. To ease all that, you will need to get the best weight distribution hitch.

    How It Works

    Each side of your system’s spring bars leverage by ensuring that the load is transferred which pushes down the tow vehicle rear to all the other axles of both the vehicle and the trailer. The result is a distribution which is even with no sagging on the tow vehicle rear, giving you a smooth ride.

    The signs that you require a weight-distribution hitch includes:

    • Front raised
    • Rear sagging
    • Braking or steering braking
    • A larger amount of sway of the trailer
    • The weight of the trailer is over 50% of the weight of the vehicle.

    There are vehicles which might have air or hydraulic rear suspension which level the vehicle’s rear. This could be a great feature but with a trailer which has over 50% of the tow vehicle weight, it is highly recommended. Not just for the purpose of performance, but to take some slack off the suspension of your vehicle as most of the air or hydraulic systems can be expensive in terms of repair.

    Why Do You Need To Buy A Weight Distribution Hitch?

    A weight distribution hitch tends tobe requirement which is legal for certain towing trailer and vehicle weights and thus, it might be that you install it in order to comply with the law. Even if they are not legally required, they will make your towing experience to be safer.

    1. Increase The Stability Of The Trailer

    Anormal trailer hitch will work well when it comes to general pulling, but during certain driving conditions can cause instabilities. Due to the fact that the trailer attaches to a single point on the tow vehicle, the trailer can tip and be able to balance around this particular point. In conditions such as high winds, this can cause an imbalance which in the process can cause swaying while at high speed driving. More points are created when you install a weight distribution system as it stabilizes the trailer in such conditions.  

    2. Brake And Turn Smoothly

    One area of trailing is where the sway happens frequently especially during brakes and turns. The extra force especially the one coming from the sides could easily cause destabilization of the trailer balance. With the weight distribution hitch, these forces are counteracted by ensuring that the trailer weight is equally distributed and reinforced while deaccelerating or turning.

    3. Handle Tough Driving Conditions

    When you are driving a trailer, it is hard to choose what conditions you are going to drive in. Especially when you are on long trips, road and weather conditions will tend to vary from time to time. When you have a weight-distribution hitch it is easier to handle driving conditions which tend to change from time to time, giving you peace of mind due to the extra trailer stability could offer.

    What Are The Different Types Of Weight Distributing Hitches?

    There are three types of weight distributing hitches in the market: trunnion bar hitches, round bar, and Anderson hitches.

    1. Round Bar Hitches

    This is a hitch which uses round-shaped sway bars which attach to the bottom of the trailer assembly and ball mount. They don’t deal with potholes and bumps the way the Anderson type do but will be able to work just well in most of the applications.

    2. Trunnion Bar Hitches

    It is almost the same as a round bar kit except that its sway bars are shaped in a square style and they don’t require a clip for you to fasten them on the receiver. They tend to be more difficult to adjust the head weight on as compared to the round bar kit. But they will be able to provide more ground clearance as compared to the round bar hitch types.

    3. Andersen Hitches

    Instead of the use of a sway bar, they use chains and dampers to help in mitigating and reducing bouncing and sway. There is a but which is used to ensure that the dampers and chains are tightened so that, you don’t have to mess around with the chains. It helps in reducing the bounce of the trailer as well as the sway.

    Things To Consider When Buying Weight Distributing Hitches

    Due to the fact that there are a variety of weight distribution hitches on the market with each manufacturer introducing a unique design, you need to have a guideline on what to consider before making the purchase. The following are some of the important considerations you will need to adhere to before purchasing a weight-distribution hitch.

    1. Gross Trailer Weight And Tongue Weight

    Weight limit is one of the most important things which you will need to consider before you purchase the weight distribution hitch. If you don’t get the right weight limit, then it will be a waste of your cash. You have to zero in on the weight of your actual trailer. This doesn’t mean that you have to go with the highest weight limit possible especially if you are not going to haul heavy things.

    You will have to also pay close attention to both the tongue weight limit and the gross trailer limit. The gross trailer weight is the total weight of whatever you are hauling. Meaning, the trailer itself plus your load. That is the first thing you will need to look at. Ensure that, the entire load doesn’t exceed this number.

    The tongue weight limit is normally 10% of the gross trailer weight limit and it refers to the weight of pushing down on the actual hitch. It consists of what you have loaded into the trailer’s front end. You will have to consider this before you decide to buy any weight distribution hitch and also when you are doing the loading on your trailer.

    2. Built-In vs Add-On Sway Control

    A weight distribution hitch might or might not come with an inbuilt sway control device. If you find a hitch which doesn’t have such an inbuilt device, then you will have to add on the sway control device. Add on and built-in control don’t differ very much. But when it comes to working, the inbuilt tends to work well and is very highly effective. 

    A  hitch which has an inbuilt sway control utilizes the friction that is between the spring arms and the brackets. The arms are pressed down on the brackets when the weight is distributed to the front axle. The movement on the sides produces more friction between the arms and brackets and the overall sway stays in control.

    When it comes to the add on, you will have to add the arm on your own. The arm will attach on the side of the hitch between the trailer frame and the hitch head. You are free to make adjustments to the level of friction by having to press down the handle.

    The adds on tend not to work well due to the fact that you have to remove them when you are turning tightly or backing up. Furthermore, when in slippery road conditions, you will not need the add ons for instances gravel, rain, snow, ice or sandy roads.

    3. Frame Brackets

    The individual frame brackets are important to be able to connect the trailer with the spring bars. It holds the spring bars so that everything is able to remain secure and tight between the trailer and the vehicle. The frame brackets come in various designs but most of the systems use a chain and bracket. There are those which use sway bars which tend to offer more control as far as stability of the trailer is concerned.

    4. Hitch Head Assembly

    This where everything comes together between the trailer, the spring bars, and the towing vehicle. With the use of a standard ball, the assembly will be able to connect the trailer with the vehicle. On its sides, you will get attachment points for the spring bars as well as sway control bars. The assembly attaches to the shank.

    The shank is that part which slides into the receiver of the hitch and provides points for mounting for the head assembly. Unlike the regular shanks, the weight distribution hitch shanks tend to be a bit bulkier and larger in design.

    5. Ease Of Installation

    It should be very easy to install the weight distribution hitch that you are purchasing. There are some of them which tend to have setups which are very complicated and will take a lot of your time to install.  If you want to DIY, then it will be best if you got a hitch which will be easy to install. You can go for one that has an inbuilt sway control into the system instead of a separate add on as their installation is a bit less complicated. It should have instructions which are easy to follow.

    You should be able to read and follow the instructions easy to make sure that, the installation is done in the right manner and in an effective way. But if you are not confident of installing it on your own, you can utilize the service of a professional technician to do it for you.

    6. Spring Bars

    They are the ones which create extra stability and leverage against a trailer by connecting several points together. In this process, it is able to help in distributing the rear load of the vehicle across all the other axles between the vehicle itself and the trailer. You will get them in either a square or round shape.

    The quality of the spring bars has an important role to play when it comes to the efficacy of the weight distribution system. Before you settle for the right quality as far as spring bars are concerned, you have to ensure you, first of all, determine the correct tongue weight.

    The tongue includes everything which is available at the back of your towing vehicle and includes the backpacks which you have placed at the truck back. You have to pick the right spring quality as per the tongue weight and the weight distribution system will be able to work well for you.

    7. Hitch Capacity

    The hitch receiver which is attached to your towing vehicle will be the one which will determine how much weight it will be able to pull. There are different classes of hitch receivers which range from one to five with each increase meaning, an increase in the maximum tongue weight capacity and gross trailer weight.

    Small cars tend to have a class 1, 2, or 3 hitches which are capable of pulling up to 6500 pounds. The small trucks which are on the market mostly come with a class four hitch which is rated at 10,000 pounds. Heavy-duty trucks and commercial vehicles often are in class 5 with more than 10,000 pounds.

    A weight distribution hitch of 100 pounds can handle a trailer that weighs between 4500 pounds and 10000 pounds conveniently. It is important that if you have something loaded at the back of your vehicle for towing, you will have to consider it before you decide on what you are going to purchase. If not, you might end up having troubles with the weight of the tongue of your hitch.

    8. Weight Rating

    The weight distribution hitches come with two different types of ratings which include one for maximum trailer weight which can be handled by your trailer and the tongue rating weight they can be able to bear. The two have to be above your trailer weight for best results

     But you have to ensure that, the margin which is between the two is not to the extreme. The ratings are not applicable to the Anderson weight distribution hitch due to the fact that the type doesn’t have spring bars. Its weight relies on the ball capability and the receiver size to fit on various weights of trailers.

    Easy Steps - How To Set Up Weight Distribution Hitch

    What you need include:

    • Washers
    • Weight Distribution Hitch
    • Screws and Bolts
    • Jack and Jack stand
    • Tape Measure
    • Ubolts

    Step 1: Take Measurements

    The towing vehicle and the trailer have to be positioned on level ground then you take the critical measurements as they will help you during the adjustment step. The uncoupled height at the front and rear wheel openings to the ground and the coupler height of the trailer.

    Step 2: Hitch Ball Of The Trailer

    Use the right hitch ball that is rated for your trailer. Attach it to the ball mount assembly. Use nuts and washers to lock it. Check the installation guide for correct torque specifications.

    Step 3: The Hitch Shank Or Bar

    Insert the hitch bar in the towing vehicle’s receiving tube based on your trailer height. You have the option of using a rise configuration or drop configuration. After insertion, secure it using a pole clip and pin.

    Step 4: Place The Ball Mount Assembly

    Place the ball mount assembly on the hitch. Lower or raise the assembly to ensure that you have the right setting. It has to be somewhere between ¾ of an inch and a whole inch as compared to the measurement of the coupler.

    Install the hardware into the top and lower holds of the ball mount, and don’t fully tighten the nuts. It just has to be tight enough to prevent the ball from moving.

    Step 5: Spring Bars Setting

    Attach the chains on the bars using U bolts flat washers then lock the nuts. Ensure that there are at least two threads which are exposed beneath the lock nut.

    Step 6: Spring Bar Adjustment

    Adjust the spring bar to match with the height by tilting the ball mount. The ball has to be vertical and slightly tilted towards the trailer.

    Step 7: Hookup

    Using the tongue jack, raise the coupler enough for the ball to pass underneath. The towing vehicle has to be moved backward until the hitch ball is under the coupler. The coupler has to be lowered on the ball to make it latch. You don’t have to remove the jack instead, let it handle the weight.

    Step 8: Re-inserting The Spring Bars and Installing The Brackets

    The spring bars have to be re-inserted. Now that the bars and chains are in place, you will have to install the snap-up brackets on the trailer frame. The brackets have to be positioned on the dead center and ensure that you tighten it using the bolt to ensure that it is not overtight. The chain has to be attached to the string bar which is in the bracket to enable it to run straight up and down.

    Step 9: Connect The Chain On The Yoke

    The bracket yoke has to be lowered to be parallel with the ground. The chain has to be taken up then slip the closest link on the hook. Slide the snap up the bracket. The handle on top of the yoke should be lifted and then raised to pass over the center. The safety pin has to be glided into the hole to deadbolt the yoke in position.

    After you are done, measure the rear axle and the front axle and if it is the same, then the installation has been done correctly.

    Trailer Towing Tips: How To Control The Sway

    Sway is something which you will definitely experience when towing with your trailer. Here are the tips which you can use to prevent the sway:

    1. Distribution Of Weight In The Trailer

    The load which is in the trailer needs to be balanced carefully remembering that, the relationship between the tongue weight and the gross trailer weight which you are trying to get. You have to distribute the weight carefully and ensure that, it is not too far back. The loads also need to be secured down or they will end up rolling down or around and which will in the process, contribute to the hazards of the sway.

    2. Avoid Crosswinds

    You have to get up to date weather forecasts. If you hear that there will be strong crosswinds, it will be best if you delay your journey or best, try to find an alternative route. There are bridges which will close to vehicles which are high sized when there are crosswinds which are strong. It is very difficult to control a sway which is caused by crosswinds.

    3. Tires Shouldn’t Have Too Little Air

    You will have to regularly check the tire pressure of both the trailer and your towing vehicle. If the pressure is low, it can contribute to sway.

    4. The Trailer Length

    If you are using a small vehicle such as an SUV to tow, you have to remember that, there are limitations to what it can be able to do. If you decide to tow with it something which is 4 times longer than the vehicle, then that is a recipe for trouble. You will have to always check the warnings and cautions included in the manufacturer's owners manual.

    5. Driving That Is Inappropriate

    You don’t have to totally rely on trailer and vehicle technology for you to be safe. It is very important to also consider your driving style. You don’t have to drive too fast and whenever you need to slow down, ensure that you apply the brakes gradually. You don’t have to make sudden turns with your steering wheel. If you notice that the vehicle is swaying, you don’t have to try steering out of it and at the same time, don’t speed up. All you have to do is to apply the trailer brakes only.

    Hitch Accessories

    1. Hitch Receiver Lock

    It fits crosswise into a receiver hole which connects to your towing vehicle. They lock whatever you are trying to tow into the hitch to ensure that, it cannot be separated without number combination or a key. They are normally metal pins with locks which are on the ends. There are those which have two locks on each side while others have an end which is crooked which prevents them from being able to pull out. Class III, IV and V hitches utilize the 5-8 inch pins

    2. Hitch Ball Lubrication

    It provides lubrication which is long-lasting and prevents rusting which in the process leads to a smoother and quieter ride. When you use hitch lubrication, it reduces friction and wears between the coupler and the ball as well as the hitch receiver, preventing rusting for at least a year to help in extending the life of your hitch and ball.

    3. Trailer Hitch Stabilizer / Anti-Rattle Device

    This is a hitch setup which is normally mounted on the towing vehicle which uses chains and spring bars under tension to distribute part of the weight of the trailer hitch from the towing vehicle’s axle at the rear, to the towing vehicle axle at the front and to the axle on the trailer. It has the capacity to help in reducing trailer hop and sway.

    4. Safety Chain Hanger

    It retains the connection between the trailer and the towing vehicle in the event there is a separation of the trailer coupling from the ball or from the hitch and the ball, long enough to ensure that the vehicle comes to a safe stop.

    5. EzStoreHitch

    It is designed in such a way that, it will be able to work with various types of travel trailers and weight distribution hitch systems. If you are unsure if it will work with your system, then first measure the space on your trailer’s tongue that is between the camper and the propane tanks. The bar tray has to be 19 inches long while the base has to be 8 inches by 8 inches.

    6. HitchGrip

    It makes it easy to remove, install, and carry your heavyweight head assembly. When it is present, there will be no back straining or getting oily or dirty. To enable it to provide better weight distribution, it uses leverage for clean and easy maneuvering.

    7. Trailer Coupler Lock

    They are U shaped locks which you can install over the coupler on the tongue of the trailer. They ensure that the thieves find it hard to hook their vehicles onto your trailer and drive away.

    Weight Distribution Hitches FAQs

    1. What Is Sway Control?

    Improper tension on the spring bar, crosswinds, and trailer loading which is inadequate can cause trailer sway. The weight distribution hitches are able to reduce this sway due to the fact that, they tend to balance out the distribution of the weight.

    To be able to tackle the winds, the sway control device which is small in size available to control the trailer from swaying from side to side especially on a windy day or when performing corners.  When you have a sway control in your weight distribution hitch, you will have smoother driving experience. It is available in two types:

    • An independent friction sway control: this is a bar which bolts on the trailer frames. Due to the fact that it attaches on the frame of the trailer and the weight distribution system, it provides tension which keeps the trailer in a straight line. It has a bar which is telescopic which moves in and out. There are friction pads which stop the movement of the telescope whenever the trailer moves out of line and thus, the side to side movement is cut down.
    • Dependant sways control: It is normally part of the weight distribution hitch system. When the sway starts, there is a force which is down on the spring bars and it is the one which produces friction resistance to the brackets that are placed on the trailer frame sides. There is both resistance to material and steel to steel resistance which is similar to the pads of the brakes. The resistance is enough to ensure that the trailer remains in a straight line.

    2. Does A Weight-Distribution Hitch Increase The Towing Capacity Of My Vehicle?

    If your hitch is for weight distribution usage, its weight distribution system will ensure that you tow at the hitch’s maximum capacity. The weight distribution does not in any way, increase the capacity of your hitch as it only allows you to use the hitch to its maximum capacity. You will have to check the capacity of the hitch to determine its towing capacity without or with weight distribution.

    You will have to note that, only hitches rated class V, IV and III can be used as weight distribution hitches. There is no way that the weight distribution system will be able to increase your vehicle’s towing capacity. It will only make your towing system to be strong.

    You have to always abide by the capacity which is stated on the towing of your vehicle and the other towing equipment. If you don’t, then your equipment will either fail or damage.

    It is also important that you remember that, not all hitches are designed to be used as weight distribution systems and thus you have to first check the hitch’s weight rating label for the capacity of its weight distribution towing. If it not listed, then the weight distribution system cannot be used.

    3. Can I Use A Surge Brake With A Weight-Distribution Hitch?

    There are specific weight distribution hitches which you can use to surge brakes. Most of the ones which are chain styled tend not to be compatible with surge brakes due to the fact that then don’t allow enough back and forth movement of the trailer to be able to activate the actuator.

    You will find in the market some manufacturers who have rated their chain-style weight distribution system as compatible with surge brakes, but you have to remember that, adding friction sway control bars to such a system will definitely make the system to be incompatible with surge brakes. To ensure that your brakes will function to its maximum ineffectiveness and it won't be prevented from compressing, don’t use snap or chain bracket system with the surge brakes.

    4. Can Too Much Tongue Weight Cause Trailer Sway?

    When the tongue weight is less than 10% there will be a trailer sway especially if you are traveling very fast. When there is too much weight on the tongue, then it will likely overload the rear tires of the vehicle which you are towing and thus, will push the rear end of your vehicle around.

    When the tongue of the trailer is unable to exert enough downward force on the tow vehicle hitch ball, then it means the tongue is light in weight which is a condition which is very dangerous causing a trailer sway. When the trailer tongue is too heavy, it causes the steering of the vehicle towing to be affected negatively.

    5. Is Tongue Weight Reduced By A Weight Distribution Hitch?

    Weight distribution ensures that the tongue weight is distributed up to the axle on the front of the vehicle towing so that, it will be able to sit more level and in the process, handle or brake better. But you should ensure that you don’t reduce the tongue weight or allow it to tow beyond the vehicle’s capacity.

    Conclusion

    When you tow anything on the open road, it requires to be done with great caution. It is recommended that you upgrade from a standard trailer hitch to a weight-distribution hitch system especially if you are handling heavy loads. For the trailer to sway while you are on transit is something which is worrying regardless of how experienced you are due to the fact that, during the sway, there is a likelihood that you will lose your vehicle’s control.

    Together with buying a weight-distribution hitch, you will have to look at the system of the sway control. All the hitches that I have reviewed have them built-in but there are those which don’t have. Once you have your weight distribution hitch installed, you should remember to utilize the trailer hitch lock to make sure that your load is secured and that you tune it properly. There are those which come with pre-installed hitches which require no tuning which makes it easier to do the installation.

    A weight distribution hitch is a must-have for you if you own a trailer and need to travel in utmost safety. It will be able to stabilize your trailer as you negotiate corners or during reversing. It has the possibility of saving you gas in the long run since your overall driving experience will become more efficient. My best pick is EAZ Lift Weight Distribution Hitch 48056 600 lbs because of its benefits which include: comes with a five-year warranty; constructed from durable material; long-lasting; superior sway control; complete installation kit.

    Related Tips and Reviews:

    1. Best Gooseneck Hitch – Buying Guide & Reviews
    2. Best Fifth Wheel Hitch for Short Bed Truck

    Source:

    1. https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/what-does-a-sway-bar-do
    2. https://auto.howstuffworks.com/auto-parts/towing/equipment/hitch-accessories/10-most-popular-hitch-accessories.htm

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