Sudden turns of your steering wheel should also be avoided. For safety, a weight-distributing hitch is required. Standard Equal-i-zer shanks allow for up to a 3 inch drop or a 7 inch rise. Copyright 2023 - Riversidetrailer. Attach the spring bar chains to the brackets, but make sure that both sides have the same distance for their vertical spacing. Solving this minor caveat is relatively simple with the help of an external tightener. The latches that attach to your trailer frame dont require any additional hardware and the entire hitch can be installed or removed in just a few minutes. However, some kits might be easier to install than others. 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. Mount the components with one bolt at the bottom to secure them. People who drove trailers know some of the heart-wrenching moments that can happen during drives. $ 1,035.00 - $ 1,224.00. Thus, this kit offers excellent value despite its expensive price. Its because cost efficiency meets quality with this model. But when you do want to disconnect, its super easy to do so. Yet another excellent feature that comes with this product is its dual sway control platform. Campers and Campfires uses this hitch and finds that it provides a smooth ride. Backing up with this hitch attached to a carrier, trailer, or RV is a stress-free endeavor. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. This does not increase your payload capacity but ensures you can get the most out of your towing package. Purchase this model, especially if you have a tall vehicle. If so, adjust the hitch by re-measuring the distance between the ground and the front and rear bumpers. They have sway control built into the bars and are Husky TS models. Blue Ox SWAYPRO Weight Distribution Hitch The Blue OX SWAYPRO is a premium weight distribution hitch that includes a top of the range sway control system. 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. Heavy, but a little less so than other hitches. This product might be the smoothest load distribution hitch you can find. This system provides continuous lubrication through the use of two easy-access grease zerk fittings on the hitch head. Wheel Bearing Greases for Travel Trailers, 4. Another way to reduce sway is to make sure the weight inside your trailer is distributed evenly. You should also pay attention to maximum ratings to future-proof your setup. 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. Step 2: Attach the WD shank and hitch head. If you need to buy a receiver for your tow vehicle you need to make sure that the vehicle itself can handle the weight. But, achieving that step means that the unit will stay in place. Moreover, hazardous situations may occur if the towing vehicle and trailer have a less relative tongue weight. Best For Quiet Use: Husky 32218 Center Line TS with Spring Bars, 4. If the Tongue weight is too high, your truck's rear can "dive" under the weight lifting front wheels off the ground. Traditional: Equal-i-zer The Best Weight Distribution Hitches for RVs - Conclusion Weight Distribution Hitches Guide Considerations & Information Do you need a Weight Distribution Hitch? This weight distributing hitch is all about giving the best value, longevity, and performance. The excess weight in the rear can cause the tail end of your trailer to swing one way and then forcibly back in the other direction. Connected trailers and RVs dont move around a lot when connected to this hitch. But the weight of the hitch you choose also comes into play when you have to install or remove it. True Tow Weight Distribution - Heavyweight. Some hitches have four points of sway control built-in. Finally, theres Andersen, which has been in the hitch-making industry for over 50 years. This can free up some space in your trailer, allowing you to haul a heavier load. Shop with us today for high quality trailer hitches and gear that is strong and versatile. Avoid legal and safety concerns by reading the ball load, which is usually indicated in the compliance plate. . The good news is that you wont have to severely sacrifice quality to get a hitch that fits your budget. This all-in-one weight distribution hitch includes the hitch assembly, forged steel spring bars, built-in attachment tabs, a sway control unit and a pre-torqued 2 5/16 trailer ball. Moving the sockets closer or further apart, tighter or looser, distributes the trailer's weight evenly, reducing the vehicle sway. The highlight of this kit is its excellent sway control. It takes advantage of a unique mechanism to transfer weight across its construction. If youre tired of bouncing trailer hitches, then check out this product. This is typically about 10%-15% of the gross trailer weight. The shank size is 2 x 2 with a 10-inch length, a 2.5-inch drop, and a 5.5-inch rise. They activate when they receive signals from the tow car brakes to stop the connected towed vehicles. Calculating tongue weight using this range makes finding a weight-distribution hitch easier. The kit comes with a 2-inch shank, which does a great job in maintaining the hitchs level. EAZ LIFT is actually made by Camco, which is one of the more reliable brands in the industry. Aside from these types, other hitch models on the market include those with two- to four-point control stabilizers. By Collyn Rivers -. And one great way to do that is by reading into user reviews of the specific hitches youre interested in. A weight distribution hitch can be helpful, although it does not increase the towing capacity of a vehicle. Next, the hitchs integrated sway control reduces unnecessary wobbles regardless of the towing vehicles speed. Youll know you did it properly if the components are in a straight or slightly-tilted position. 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. However, modern solutions are available to allow backing up without frequent disassembly. 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. Additionally, some restrictions may apply to the design of the hitch itself - for instance, Sierra 1500 pickup truck models towing trailers with tongue weights greater than 700-800 pounds should move from a weight-carrying hitch to a weight-distributing hitch. 98. The tradeoff with its hefty construction is its superb durability. WD With Sway Control. EAZ LIFT 48069 Elite Kit 2. This can be an issue with other hitches, but not with the e2. Most manuals should provide instructions in multiple languages, but this is indeed something to check on before buying. That isnt the case with the ReCurve, which makes it much easier and efficient to navigate tight campgrounds or get your trailer into position in trickier spots. Buying a hitch with the wrong bar length is like throwing money out the window. These spring bars can actually be removed if you chose to operate it as a more standard weight distributing hitch. As we stated in our initial reviews, we stand by the Blue Ox BXW1000 as the best overall weight distribution hitch. With dimensions of about 30 x 13 x 12 inches, this product is one of the smaller models out there. If the built-in tow ball weight can already handle the load to be pulled, then theres no need to add to the existing force. Its also possible to replace the leg screws with sturdier brackets to reduce potential dangers. However, its not as light as other competing products, especially if you look at its weight that goes over 100 lbs. For example, towing a trailer with an SUV thats less than one-third of the trailers length is just asking for trouble. As someone who has moved to a new city in an RV and spent the first several weeks commuting to and from work in that RV, I highly recommend a weight distribution hitch for towing an additional vehicle behind your rig. The sway control functionality of this model is self-adjusting. Different manufacturers tend to create different hitches with unique characteristics. I contribute to studies aimed at understanding the most typical problems encountered by RVers on the road. If your trailer weighs 2000 pounds in total, this should make up about 60% of it. Blue Ox. More importantly, trailers that are hitched too high are also more . What You Need To Know, Read Before You Buy! The 2-point rigid brackets worked as expected as the trailer had little to no movement from the hitch while driving against strong winds. It does provide a maximum rise, however, of seven inches. One such device relies on sliding devices called cams. These cams suspend the spring bars and lock into position. link to Do Weight Distribution Hitches Wear Out? This article explains the adverse effects of using a weight . Most of these hitches weight at least 100 pounds, but some are considerably heavier while others are noticeably lighter. It also has an adjustable ball mount. If your trailer starts to move out of line, the friction pads within the telescoping arm of the bar keep it from extending too far, which cuts down the side-to-side movement of your trailer. You may also use gentle detergents, but not solutions with harsh chemicals as these compounds might deteriorate the material. Camco Eaz-Lift ReCurve R6: Excellent sway control 4. Many modern kits now have anti-sway mechanisms that significantly reduce wobbling, which might otherwise cause road accidents. This extra clearance will definitely come in handy if you like to travel off the beaten path. No other hitch gives the driver the control this one does at a reasonable price. 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. It also provides a more level ride for your tow vehicle and . Then, couple the trailer to the trailer ball after the tow vehicles backed up. Read the complete Fastway e2 Weight Distribution Hitch review. Independent friction control devices on weight distribution hitches typically look like a bar that attaches to the frame of your trailer. Not all models change tow vehicles easily. Mount the brackets onto the trailers frame with bolts. It is compatible with other trailer tongues, however. 7. It weighs about 80 lbs, so you might need to ask for extra help from friends and relatives to lift it up. This can cause you to lose braking traction and steering control through the front axle of your vehicle. The weight of the weight distribution hitch you choose should be taken into account when youre making sure that the total weight youre hauling doesnt exceed your vehicles specifications. Some hitches are much easier to install than others. You must pick a weight distribution system with a weight range that matches or slightly exceeds the trailer's tongue weight. It forces the trailer tongue to be more parallel with the road. Manufacturers recommend having a torque of 60 to 100 foot-pounds for your weight distribution hitch. So it can allow for more efficient trailer travel when compared to some other hitches. Even though it is a 2 point system, it drives very well, and you do not feel sway when driving. Others might require additional hardware to be compatible with your specific trailer-vehicle combination. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'gotogethergofar_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_7',125,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-gotogethergofar_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');A weight distribution hitch creates a binding connection. The spring bars themselves are 30 inches long. Tongue weight is the percentage of the load that rests directly on the hitch. These include cargo, boat, horse, RV, and utility trailers. I join Riverside Trailer as an editor, where I will be doing research for both content and reviews. Still, if you want to go with my recommendation, consider choosing the Blue Ox BXW1500. Get it by Tuesday, Sep 27. The brand also made the design of the product to be as streamlined as possible. This element should reduce or prevent unnecessary wobbles that might happen to the trailer while driving. The added downward force placed on the hitch junction can cause the nose of your tow vehicle to lift up. link to What Is The Best Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery (LiFePO2) For An RV, For The Money, it is possible to end up with one that is too big. Do Weight Distribution Hitches Wear Out? Your rear axles take on the weight, which can strain the rear axles and overload your payload capacity. It also increases the risk of swaying or fishtailing. Loosening some of the bolts with the right wrench gets the job done quickly. Better handling: A weight distribution hitch can also help to improve the handling of your trailer. Best Anti-Sway and Anti-Bounce: Andersen Hitches 3350 No Sway Weight Distribution Hitch, 8. Increased payload: While a weight distribution hitch will not actually increase the payload of your trailer, it can help to distribute the weight more evenly. Another drawback that some users might encounter is the kits overall size. Despite its lightweight design, the rigid steel brackets on this unit mount directly to your trailer frame to prevent sway. The hitch also handles a gross trailer weight of up to 12,000 lbs. Weigh Distribution Hitch (Sway Control) Weight distribution is important for your vehicle's handling while towing. The pre-torqued hitch ball is 2 and 5/16th of an inch in diameter and the shank size is 2 x 2. Weight distribution hitches with sway control built-in require special considerations. And as many dash-cam videos show, may even jack-knife if that occurs at high speed. Some dont include a hitch ball and youll have to buy that separately. The package even comes with a shank and pin, unlike other hitches on the market. This feature is also easy to disassemble when its not needed. Some of the types of weight distribution hitches you can find are: As their name implies, some hitches have anti-sway mechanisms built into their constructions. The Different Types of Weight Distribution Hitches. A towed caravan has to be heavier at its front than at its rear. 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. The tongue weight is the static force the travel trailer tongue exerts on the hitch ball. The right hitch for your situation will largely depend on compatibility with both your RV and your towed vehicle. Rotate the head into the shanks mounting position afterward. Extra Ground Clearance: Camco Eaz-Lift ReCurve R6 Weight Distributing Hitch Kit with Sway Control, 7. Proper Weight Distribution is required for towing stability and will assure that the trailer is not rear, front or side heavy. I can leave the hitch attached as I back into parking spaces, and the trailer turns as intended. . Riversidetrailer.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. If its hard to find these ratings for a particular model, thats an automatic red flag. Read Review. Most of its components are made of steel, which is corrosion resistant while handling more than the average bumps and dings. Next, insert the hitchs shank into the receiver tube. Expert Reply: Yes, if you use a weight distribution system that is rated too high for the tongue weight of a trailer the ride quality will be incredibly stiff and harsh. $700.98 $ 700. Its sway control mechanism functions to make hitching and unhitching hassle-free. So, What is the Best Weight Distribution Hitch for 2020? How do I know how much my vehicle can tow? It enhances safety, plain and simple. This component is also properly torqued, so theres no need to readjust it upon acquisition. Shaft Size. Some dependent sway control devices rely on steel-to-steel resistance. 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. Moreover, this design choice makes it easy to access the ball shank. This hitch also fits taller trucks with a two-inch shank size and an 8.5-inch drop. Finding a model thats compatible with your trailer AND your vehicle is the hardest part of selecting a weight distribution hitch. You also wont need to worry about lubricating the ball and coupler regularly. Sacrificing quality in place of saving a few bucks may result in uneven weight distribution, raising the likelihood of potential hazards happening. Thus, consider checking weight distribution hitch with sway control reviews before making your purchase. In return, it reduces potential friction that may occur with other more convoluted hitches. That way, you wont feel any buyers remorse upon purchasing your preferred CURT model. The trailer is also only 5ft wide 12ft long and 3ft high. A weight distribution hitch with friction sway control bars requires you to get out and unhook them before reversing. Dependent sway controls are actually built right into a weight distribution hitch. You want to ideally pick a system that has a tongue weight range where your tongue weight falls right in the middle. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. But the best ways to ensure safer towing are to purchase a quality weight distribution hitch and apply some of those safe driving techniques. Weight Distribution Hitch too high? But one good way to reduce sway is to avoid crosswinds. With weight distribution, that weight gets spread to the front axle of your towing vehicle and the axles of your trailer itself. 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. For starters, it provides more level towing by more evenly distributing the tongue weight of your trailer across the area of the vehicle-trailer combination. If you remove the spring bars, however, those ratings drop down to 600 pounds and 6,000 pounds, respectively. . Say goodbye to buying extra parts by purchasing this load distribution hitch. I would like to know, if I used the higher weight hitch on a lower weight . The unit combines sway control and weight distribution to provide quiet performance without the need for any additional hardware. It comes with an adjustable ball mount but does not include the hitch ball itself. Hitch shoppers looking for a relatively inexpensive kit may find what theyre looking for in this product. Another brand to consider is Husky as this company has been making hitches and other towing equipment for years. A weight distribution hitch is too big if it is rated too high for the weight of your trailer. . The spring bars on this hitch are tapered to provide more even weight distribution over your trailer axles. of gross trailer weight with relatively minimal effort. 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. A larger weight distribution hitch affects your vehicles maximum hitch capacity and choosing one that is too big limits the weight you can tow. You can unsubscribe any time. It should sit at or near the top of your tongue weight range. Look for patterns and identify the experience that the majority of users are reporting. In other words, there are no extra purchases necessary to assemble this product. Now, lower the tongue weight of the trailer onto the hitch and latch the coupler. No hard feelings. You should expect some drawbacks accompanying the kits you use. I recommend this model for anyone looking for hitches that bring peace of mind during drives. On the other hand, weight distributing hitches may have compatibility issues with some trailer and tow vehicle choices. Although its not as strong as other models, this strength should be powerful enough to pull many trailers and RVs. Setting the hitch too high tilts the trailer backwards, throwing off both the towing profile and the weight distribution. The Best Weight Distribution Hitch Reviews 1. Thus, its relatively easy to discover which trailer weight is compatible with it. Like CURT, Andersen Hitches began with humble beginnings. Doing this allows you to drive your vehicle more easily while towing a heavier load. Finally, put the other bolt into the top hole of the hitch head. It started with a single-room setup that transformed into a manufacturing company. These seemingly tiny objects might become potential hazards that may ruin the hitchs durability and performance. Otherwise, pivot the head down before placing two washers on the adjustment rod. 2. It also means that I dont have to purchase different spring bars. This effect becomes really helpful for not exceeding the gross vehicle axle weight limit of your towing vehicle. For example, you might use the Internet and search for keywords like equalizer hitch review to search for consumer feedback about this brand. Best Anti-Sway and Anti-Bounce: Andersen Hitches 3350 No Sway Weight Distribution Hitch, 8. These kits dont allow towing vehicles backing up because the motion can potentially damage their systems. These two ratings are very commonly advertised when youre shopping for weight distribution hitches. 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. Its stabilizer can also handle loads of up to 10,000 lbs. Dont forget to check out our Recommended RV Equipment list! Various EAZ lift weight distribution hitch reviews indicate that this product is one of the best on the market. Shoppers can purchase friction bars that connect to these units to help reduce trailer sway. By locking the coupling into alignment, there is no freedom of motion. Setting a Hitch Too High. If you have a travel trailer that you tow behind a truck or van, the scariest part of actually traveling is feeling your trailer start to sway back and forth behind you. This hitch is covered in black polyester. 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. You may think that a larger weight distribution hitch performs better, but when you choose one rated too high for the tongue weight of your trailer, you put unnecessary additional weight on your towing vehicle. 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%. To increase the towing capacity of your truck, you should take it to a professional. You must select a ball mount with the appropriate drop to keep your trailer level while being towed. Constructed from engineered steel. This hitch comes with a plethora of features focused on durability, performance, and safety. Your load is equally spread over the axles on the trailer when the weight-distributing hitch is properly set up, giving you better stability and control. Your truck's basic receiver hitch may have the capacity required to tow around 8,000 lbs, but that doesn't mean it will be able to deliver the kind of sway control and driving safety you'll need when towing more than 5,000 lbs. The hitch ball is 2 and 5/16ths of an inch in diameter and it arrives already torqued to the hitch head. The hitch ball that comes with this unit is 2 and 5/16ths of an inch in diameter. $1,44995. While this does not decrease tongue weight, it ensures everything is properly distributed, so you do not run into issues while handling your towing vehicle. This basically occurs when there is too much weight placed on the hitch junction between your vehicle and your trailer. Other features that are nice touches are a height adjustment of 8 inches, a 5-5/8 inch rise, a 10 inch shank length, and a 2-3/8 inch drop. When it really comes down to making a final decision on a hitch, we know that its price is going to come into play. I have just over 6" of drop from my stock 2010 Dodge Ram 2500 to the tongue of my 2005 Jay Feather EXP when it sits level. Use the trailers tongue jack to make the trailer parallel to the ground. A potential buyer can find quality Husky products like tongue jacks, brakes, and cargo carriers, to name a few. If the tongue weight is too high, you can try moving cargo further away . 3 Best Travel Trailers for Family of Four, Blue Ox SwayPro Basics: Top Questions Answered. We also offer trunnion bar hitches and round bar hitches. Join over 10,000 VIP members to get practical, entertaining, and inspiring resources and step by step articles about RV travel Destinations, RV Gear, and full-time RV living to live Stress-Free Life In Your RV. Then there are sturdy steel components that the manufacturer forged and hardened to provide long-term durability and performance. Best Lightweight: Fastway 10K RB Fastway e2 2-point Sway Control Distribution Hitch. Fastway e2 Sway Control Trunnion Hitch 7. The two main problems that occur when towing a trailer are called dive and sway. At this point, you may have already installed the weight distribution hitch. A weight distribution hitch helps you distribute weight back to the front axle of your truck. You can be confident that any product with a durability issue is going to have plenty of reviews in which that issue is well documented. Youll also be able to see the nose of your tow vehicle visibly higher than the rear bumper. After figuring out the tow ball weight, its time to browse the market for hitches that are compatible with your vehicles A-frame. Note that its still possible to use your cars brakes while the hitch is attached, but it might require harder braking. This lighter weight makes the hitch and accompanying spring bars much easier to install and remove as a single person, whereas others might require at least two people for easier installation. of load, which tends to be a lot of carriers, trailers, and RVs. The EAZ LIFT 48053 also has a maximum tongue weight of 1,000 pounds and a maximum gross weight rating of 10,000 pounds. The manufacturer also finished each part with a durable black powder finish. This helps to avoid a low tongue weight, but you also need to make sure the load is balanced from side-to-side and everything inside your trailer is secured down adequately so that it doesnt shift while youre driving. The parts tend to create rackets during drives. The biggest weight distribution hitch is not always the best investment. Allows Backing Up. My 2022 Ram 2500 4x4 seems to sit much higher than the old truck did. Its not impacted by high winds too small of a surface area for its weight. You should always choose a hitch thats rated to handle more than the actual tongue weight of your trailer-vehicle combination. Rather than the weight being centered on the point where the trailer and vehicle connect, the weight distribution hitch distributes the weight across the axels of the vehicle and trailer. The front half of the trailer should weigh 1200 pounds. Keep in mind that exceeding the maximum tow ball weight is both hazardous and illegal. If you have a trailer with a GTW of 4000 lbs, the tongue weight sits between 400 and 700 lbs. This hitch design does very well to reduce both swaying and bouncing, which is nice if you frequent rough roads or like to take your trailer off-road. This type of hitch features round sway bars that attach to the bottom of the trailer ball mount. The package also comes with the chains and assembly hardware needed to complete the installation. I know the way the hitch receiver is mounted in the Yukon (middle of the bumper) it requires more drop than what my old Avalanche needed. Our new vehicle is a 2017 GMC Sierra. Posts: 39. The back of your trailer will be noticeably higher than the front once its loaded onto your trailer hitch. (Things to Know), How to Winterize RV Without Antifreeze Only 3 Steps, How to Level a Travel Trailer on a Permanent Site in 7 Steps, Versatile design, works with surge brakes, The Benefits of Using Weight Distribution Hitches. Fastway 92-00-1000 e2 2-Point Trunnion Hitch, 8. With it, its possible to customize the spring bars tension for flexible towing. Your weight distribution hitch rating must match or slightly exceed your Gross Trailer Weight. it is to truly, and precisely . If so, the trailer swaying might be relatively high, which will, in turn, make it go out of control. Best Gross Trailer Weight Rating: CURT 17063 MV Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control, 6. If the tongue of your trailer already boasts a coupler welded to the top of the frame and it doesnt have any cross-members on the tongue, youll be able to utilize this hitch out-of-the-box. This kit comes with a pre-adjusted head. Its also important to note that this rig is quite heavy. The elements behind this superior built-in sway control are the rigid brackets. When you incorporate a weight-distribution hitch, it evens out the weight across both axles, restoring some to the front and alleviating stress on the rear.
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