A weight distribution hitch enhances stability, reduces swaying, and improves overall handling, making it safer to tow heavy loads. It’s a must-have for anyone towing large trailers or campers. we prioritized three critical factors:
- For Tongue Weight Rating, we looked at hitches capable of handling from 600 to 1,200 pounds, ensuring suitability for a wide range of trailers.
- Gross Trailer Weight Rating was another key criterion, with our selections accommodating trailers from 10,000 to 14,000 pounds, catering to both light and heavy towing requirements.
- Lastly, we considered Hitch Class, focusing on Class III and IV hitches, which are most commonly used for recreational and light commercial towing.
These factors were crucial in compiling our list, ensuring that you receive a comprehensive guide to the best weight distribution hitches tailored to the US market. Explore our “Buying Guide” for expert insights.
- Camco Eaz Lift Weight Distribution Hitch – Best Overall Hitch Model
- Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Hitch – Best Traditional-Style Hitch Model
- Anderson Weight Distribution Hitch – Most Versatile & Premium Hitch Model
- CURT Weight Distribution Hitch – Best Hitch Model for Heavy Loads
- Fastway Weight Distribution Hitch – Best Budget-Friendly Hitch Model
- Husky Liner Weight Distribution Hitch – Best Value for Money Hitch Model
- Blue Ox Weight Distribution Hitch – Best Notable Mention
- Camco Weight Distribution Hitch – Another Honorable Mention with Extra Ground Clearance
Best Weight Distribution Hitch List
| Best Weight Distribution Hitch | Maximum Tongue Weight Rating | Maximum Gross Trailer Weight Rating | Hitch Ball Size | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Camaco EAZ LIFT Weight Distribution Hitch | 1,000 lbs | 10,000 lbs | 2-5/16-inch | Check On Amazon |
| Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Hitch | 1,000 lbs | 10,000 lbs | - | Check On Amazon |
| ANDERSEN Weight Distribution Hitch | 1,400 lbs | 14,000 lbs | 2-inch & 2-5/16-inch | Check On Amazon |
| CURT Weight Distribution Hitch | 1000 – 1400 lbs | 14,000 lbs | 2-5/16-inch | Check On Amazon |
| Fastway Weight Distribution Hitch | 600 lbs | 6,000 lbs | - | Check On Amazon |
| Husky Weight Distribution Hitch | 1,200 lbs | 12,000 lbs | - | Check On Amazon |
| Blue Ox Weight Distribution Hitch | 1,000 lbs | - | - | Check On Amazon |
| Camco Eaz-Lift ReCurve Weight Distribution Hitch | 1,000 lbs | - | - | Check On Amazon |
Best Weight Distribution Hitch Reviews
We have narrowed down the field to the best-rated weight distribution hitch with sway control. Here is the list of the reviewed load-equalizing hitches that have built-in sway control and various amazing features.
1. Comco Eaz Lift Weight Distribution Hitch
Camco stands as a prominent consumer-driven brand renowned for delivering top-notch and innovative products, elevating the towing experience. The EAZ Lift Elite weight distribution hitch is the ultimate choice for trailer enthusiasts, seeking unparalleled towing stability. Meticulously designed and equipped with advanced features, it ensures the seamless towing of substantial loads, guaranteeing a secure and comfortable journey.
Key Features
- Leveling Control: Achieve proper towing by leveling the tow vehicle and redistributing tongue weight, ensuring optimal towing conditions.
- Integrated Sway Control: The hitch’s built-in sway control minimizes lateral trailer movement, reducing sway and fishtailing for a secure driving experience, even in challenging conditions.
- Efficient Weight Distribution: It distributes the weight evenly, and levels both the trailer and tow vehicle, facilitating a smooth, safe ride with improved braking and steering control.
- Impressive Capacity: Boasting a tongue weight capacity of 1000 pounds and a maximum gross weight rating of 10,000 lbs, this kit is ideal for hauling boats, RVs, or cargo to carry loads/trailers.
- Adjustable Design: The adjustable hitch head (2.5 to 5 inches) and adjustable shank (12 inches) allow for fine-tuning as per the trailer height, ensuring a level ride and optimal weight distribution for seamless towing.
- Easy Installation: Clear and comprehensive instructions, along with pre-installed components, make the installation of this Camco hitch a breeze, accessible to both DIY enthusiasts and professionals.
- Durability: Crafted from robust materials and featuring a corrosion-resistant finish, the EAZ Lift Elite hitch is built for longevity, delivering enduring performance.
- Precision Design: Equipped with a 2 5/16 inches hitch ball and sway control ball specifically designed for high towing weights, pre-installed and torqued to the adjustable ball mount specification.
User Feedback: Most users express satisfaction with the hitch’s ease of towing, durable construction, high weight capacity, easy installation, 5-year warranty, and safety features, making it suitable for RVs and trucks. While some note a slightly higher price point, a few users reported the absence of gauges for checking real-time weight & too short shank length.
2. Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Hitch
Leveraging extensive expertise in hitch development, Equal-i-zer stands out as a premier hitch manufacturer. The ingenuity of their patented hitch design positions them as leaders, particularly in delivering best-in-class sway protection for trailers. Enter the Equal-i-zer 4-Point Sway Control Weight Distribution Hitch, a true game-changer in the realm of towing and trailer control. Boasting a high weight capacity, it promises exceptional stability and safety on the road, making it the go-to choice for those in pursuit of a superior towing experience.
Key Features
- 4-Point Sway Control: The advanced 4-point sway control system efficiently combats trailer sway and fishtailing, ensuring a smooth and secure ride even in adverse situations.
- High Weight Ratings: With a 1000 lbs tongue weight and a 10,000 lbs trailer weight rating, this hitch kit accommodates a broad spectrum of trailer sizes and weights, making it an ideal option for boats, RVs, and more.
- Standard Hitch Shank: The inclusion of a standard hitch shank ensures compatibility with a wide range of trailer couplers, allowing for precise height adjustment for various towing setups.
- Durable Build: Renowned for its robust construction, the hitch is crafted with high-quality materials and a corrosion-resistant finish, capable of withstanding the rigors of heavy-duty towing.
- Easy Installation: Featuring a user-friendly design with clear instructions, the hitch ensures a straightforward setup, catering to both novices and experienced towers alike.
- Versatility: The high weight ratings enable the hitch to accommodate a diverse range of trailer types and sizes, making it an ideal choice for those with varied towing needs.
- Smooth Towing Experience: Superior weight distribution capabilities and sway control ensure a stable, and heavy-duty towing experience, even in challenging conditions such as crosswinds, passing vehicles, or uneven terrains.
- Design: This hitch body is made up of high-quality alloy steel, and it has adjustable sway control (27 to 32 inches), and longer spring bars of 36-inch length that offer essential tension adjustments. This 12-inch-long hitch shank and height adjustment (3 – 7 inches) from the hitch top
- Weight Distribution Kit: This comprehensive kit includes a standard hitch shank and all essential components for effective weight distribution and sway control. It distributes all the towing weight onto the front and rear axles, keeping the front axle from lifting.
User Feedback: Most users express satisfaction with the hitch’s safety features, versatility, durability, easy installation, impressive weight rating, and 4-point sway control that provides uncompromising safety and stability while towing. However, some users note its high cost, noisy, and the absence of the 2-5/16-inch hitch ball, requiring separate purchase consideration for compatibility with existing setups.
3. Anderson Weight Distribution Hitch
Harnessing five decades of expertise, Andersen Hitches has redefined conventional towing products to pioneer an innovative line designed to cater to the ever-evolving needs of consumers. Within this premium range, the Andersen Mfg 3303 weight distribution hitch emerges as a groundbreaking solution, reshaping the expectations of towing enthusiasts by delivering a refined and controlled towing experience. This universal hitch kit eliminates bounce and sway, making it an innovative and user-friendly option. So, why wait, streamline your towing experience by investing in the Andersen 3350.
Key Features
- No Sway, No Bounce: The motion-dampening springs of the hitch eliminate both bounce and sway, ensuring a smoother, controlled ride even in challenging road conditions and adverse weather.
- Universal Compatibility: Featuring a 6-inch drop/rise and a 2 5/16-inch hitch ball, this hitch is universally compatible, fitting seamlessly with a wide range of trailer couplers and hitch receivers.
- Impressive Capacity: With a 14,000 lb GTWR (Gross Trailer Weight Rating) and a 1400 lb tongue weight rating, this hitch effortlessly handles hefty loads, catering to various towing needs.
- Grease-Free System: Unlike traditional systems requiring greasing, this innovative design is virtually maintenance-free and works smoothly with a grease-free connection between the ball and coupler, allowing you to focus on the journey rather than upkeep.
- Easy Trailer Control: Clear instructions make the hitch a perfect choice for both experienced and novice towers, thanks to its user-friendly installation and operation.
- Lighter Design: Despite its impressive figures, the unit is lighter than its competitors, and meets heavy-duty requirements. Additionally, when the weight distribution feature is disabled, this hitch serves as a regular ball mount.
- Versatility: Its universal compatibility and impressive weight ratings make it suitable for a diverse range of trailers and towing setups.
- Smooth Towing: The Andersen Hitch shifts the tow vehicle’s weight forward towards the front axle, offering a smooth and comfortable towing experience, even on challenging terrains.
User Feedback: Most users appreciated this Andersen Hitches Weight Distribution Hitch for its impressive features like universal compatibility, bounce & sway elimination, and maintenance-free design that redefines the towing experience. However, some users note a slightly higher price and reported that they need to fine-tune the hitch setup to achieve the perfect balance, making it not ideal for big trailers.
4. CURT Weight Distribution Hitch
CURT stands at the forefront of towing solutions, offering a comprehensive array of products, with their customizable hitches known for their heavy-duty applications. A hallmark of their commitment to safety and superior quality is the rigorous inspection each product undergoes before packing. The Curt 17063 Round Weight Distribution Hitch, emerges as a high-performance solution, seamlessly integrating lubrication with effective sway control to elevate the overall towing experience.
Key Features
- Integrated Lubrication System: The built-in lubrication system ensures well-lubricated components, reducing wear and friction, and results in efficient, smoother, and quieter operation.
- Sway Control: The integrated sway control system reduces trailer sway and fishtailing, providing improved stability and safety on the road, especially in challenging conditions like wind or high-traffic situations.
- High Weight Capacity: With a towing capacity of up to 14,000 lbs, this hitch effortlessly handles a diverse range of trailer loads, from RVs to boats and beyond, offering versatility for various towing requirements.
- Hitch Ball: The included 2 5/16-inch ball size ensures compatibility and facilitates easy connectivity between the trailer and towing vehicle. The long spring bars provide tension to the hitch, effectively controlling trailer movement.
- Ease of Use: User-friendly installation and operation are facilitated by clear instructions and a practical design, catering to both novice and experienced towers.
- Versatile and Strong: With its high weight capacity, this hitch adapts to various towing setups and handles heavy loads effortlessly.
- Enhanced Safety: The integrated sway control system adds an extra layer of safety, preventing trailer sway and ensuring peace of mind with its secured and controlled towing experience.
- Design: Crafted from premium-grade alloy steel materials and coated with a durable anti-corrosion carbide black powder finish, the hitch boasts longevity and durability. Its adjustable 2-inch shank fits virtually any industry-standard 2-inch trailer hitch receiver.
User Feedback: While the majority appreciates this hitch as a reliable, all-in-one solution for towing needs due to its impressive features, some users mention concerns about its substantial build (heavy body weight), and a few find the installation process somewhat complex (unclear instructions).
5. Fastway E2 Weight Distribution Hitch
Fastway is a well-known brand that incorporates advanced engineering in its development process, as it commits to delivering a diverse range of durable products. The Fastway E2 Sway Control Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch provides a reliable 2-point hitch solution for those in search of a smooth and controlled towing experience. This package includes a standard hitch shank, offering a comprehensive towing solution to meet your specific requirements.
Key Features
- 2-Point Sway Control: The hitch’s advanced two-point sway control system effectively reduces the risk of trailer sway and fishtailing, enhancing stability, safety, and a more controlled towing experience on the road.
- Impressive Weight Ratings: Boasting a 6000-lb trailer weight rating and a 600-lb tongue weight rating, this hitch offers versatility to accommodate a variety of trailer loads, ranging from smaller utility trailers to mid-sized RVs.
- Standard Hitch Shank: The inclusion of a standard hitch shank ensures compatibility with various trailer couplers and hitch receivers. The adjustable shank allows for precise height adjustments, ensuring a level towing experience.
- Design: The alloy steel body and the powder-coated finish offer long-lasting performance. The weight distribution is balanced properly without much strain on the rear axle. Its round spring bars offer perfect tension force on the hitch.
- Versatile Weight Ratings: Designed to suit a variety of trailers, the hitch offers flexibility to meet diverse towing requirements.
- User-Friendly Installation: The E2 hitch is thoughtfully designed for easy installation, ensuring a straightforward setup accessible to both novice and experienced towers.
- Long-Term Warranty: This hitch front axle lets you stay firmly on the ground to keep the trailer right behind you. It delivers security and peace of mind with its 10-year limited warranty and quality craftsmanship.
User Feedback: Most users express appreciation for the Fastway Sway Control Round Bar Hitch, deeming it a solid and reliable option with impressive weight ratings, user-friendly features, a 2-point sway control, and a convenient standard hitch shank. However, some users note the absence of a hitch ball, requires periodic greasing, and poor packaging.
6. Husky Liner Weight Distribution Hitch
Husky Towing Products offers a specialized lineup catering to towing needs. Rigorously tested to meet industry standards, their products consistently deliver robust and reliable towing solutions. The Husky 31423 weight distribution hitch is engineered for efficiency and durability, this hitch ensures a secure connection and facilitates even weight distribution, elevating the overall towing experience. With a remarkable maximum tongue weight of 1200 lbs, the Husky 31423 stands as a robust solution for various trailer applications.
Key Features
- Robust Tongue Weight Capacity: Built to withstand a substantial 800 – 1200 pounds of tongue weight (with a gross trailer weight rating of up to 12,000 lbs), this hitch kit boasts an impressive capacity suitable for a diverse array of tasks, from towing small utility trailers to larger RVs.
- Round Bar Design: The round bar configuration efficiently distributes weight across the tow vehicle and trailer, reducing sag and providing enhanced control.
- Bolt-Together Ball Mount/Shank: The bolt-together design ensures reliability and strength, instilling confidence that the hitch remains securely connected during journeys.
- Enhanced Stability: This weight distribution hitch significantly contributes to stability and control while towing, making it ideal for heavy towing conditions.
- Durable Design: The bolt-together construction and round bar design ensure reliability and durability, offering peace of mind on the road. The alloy steel body construction with a powder-coated polyester finish resists rust and corrosion, and the pre-assembled hitch saves installation time.
- Height Adjustment: With an 8-inch total height adjustment, 10-inch shank length, 12 ¾ inch ball to pinhole, 1 ¼-inch hole, and 5 5/8-inch rise, the hitch kit accommodates a variety of trailers, including SUVs and trucks.
- Integrated Sway Control: The built-in sway control ball platform allows the hitch to accept different spring bar capacities for maximum versatility and reduced inventory. The dual sway control system enhances stability when hauling heavy loads.
User Feedback: The Husky Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch emerges as a robust choice for numerous individuals seeking dependable weight distribution and support during their towing adventures. Users appreciate its durable construction, decent tongue weight capacity, and the extra sway control system. However, some express disappointment due to the absence of an integrated sway control system and hitch ball, and bolt-together design may take more time during assembly.
7. Blue Ox Weight Distribution Hitch
With over a century of expertise in towing solutions, Blue Ox has mastered the art of creating user-friendly products. The Blue Ox BXW1000 Hitch, part of the Swaypro series, stands out as a top-tier solution designed to elevate the towing experience to new heights, prioritizing optimal control, stability, and safety. Ideal for trailers with standard couplers featuring clamp-on latches, this hitch is engineered for simplicity and performance.
Key Features
- SwayPro Technology: The integrated sway control system effectively reduces trailer sway and fishtailing, ensuring a secure and controlled towing experience in challenging road or weather conditions.
- High Tongue Weight Capacity: With a maximum tongue weight rating of 1000 pounds, this hitch accommodates a diverse range of trailer loads, from boats and campers to utility trailers. Thus, it offers versatility for different towing needs.
- Clamp-On Latches: Designed for standard couplers with clamp-on latches, ensuring easy installation and secure attachment to the trailer. So, it simplifies the overall setup process (attachment and detachment during the hitching and unhitching process).
- Ease of Installation: Specifically designed for use with clamp-on latches and standard couplers, the Blue Ox simplifies hitching up, allowing you to hit the road quickly.
- Construction: The pre-adjusted hitch head eliminates the need to set the ball mount height. The hitch body, made of spring steel material, provides strength while hauling loads and supports reversing the trailer without disconnecting the hitch.
User Feedback: Most people prefer this Blue Ox weight distribution hitch for towing the vehicle, appreciating its various outstanding features. While some users note a slightly higher price tag, the added safety and convenience make it a valuable investment for those seeking a worry-free towing experience.
8. Camco Weight Distribution Hitch
Introducing another standout product from Camco renowned for its user-friendly design, the Eaz-Lift ReCurve R6 Weight Distributing Hitch Kit delivers heavy-duty innovation, elevating your towing experience. This hitch distinguishes itself with an adjustable sway control system, ensuring enhanced safety, optimal control, and stability across a diverse range of towing setups.
Key Features
- Adaptive Sway Control: The Camco Eaz-Lift Re-Curve R6 boasts an adjustable sway control system, allowing customization to match specific towing requirements, ensuring a comfortable and secure journey.
- Heavy-Duty Build: Engineered to withstand the rigors of heavy towing, this hitch features a robust, rust-resistant design. Constructed from an alloy steel material with a powder-coated finish, it ensures durability for peace of mind during travels.
- Decent Tongue Weight Capacity: With a high tongue weight capacity of 1000 pounds, this hitch handles a variety of trailer loads, making it a versatile choice for everything from recreational trailers to larger cargo haulers.
- Hassle-Free Turning: Unlike traditional sway controls that lock the trailer straight, the ReCurve R6 disengages sway control automatically while turning, ensuring smoother and easier maneuvering.
- Impressive Design: The sway control shifts into OFF mode for quicker maneuvering in icy or dangerous road conditions. Top-loading spring bars provide superior ground clearance, and the streamlined design allows the hitch and trailer to move as a single vehicle, creating a sleek and subtle look. The included brackets accommodate trailers with 3-inch to 6-inch A-frames.
User Feedback: The Camco EAZ Lift ReCurve R6 impresses its users with various user-friendly features, including an adaptive sway-control feature, top-loading spring bars, high-ground clearance, and included essential components that make it easy to maneuver and suitable for heavy load. While some users are disappointed due to its heavier weight, complicated installation, and higher price tag.
Buying Guide For The Best Weight Distribution Hitch
When considering the purchase of the best weight distribution hitch for your towing needs, it is imperative to understand several key factors that will ensure a safe, efficient, and appropriate match for your vehicle and trailer. Below are critical factors to consider, each accompanied by insights on why they matter and what to look for.
1. Tongue Weight Rating
Why It Matters
Tongue weight (TW) is the downward force that the tongue of the trailer exerts on the hitch of the towing vehicle. It’s crucial because it significantly affects the towing vehicle’s stability and steering. If the tongue weight is too low, it can lead to trailer sway, whereas too high a tongue weight can strain the rear suspension of the towing vehicle, leading to compromised steering and braking.
What to Look For
Look for a weight distribution hitch that can handle your trailer’s specific tongue weight. The ideal tongue weight is typically between 10% to 15% of your trailer’s Gross Trailer Weight (GTW). Therefore, if your trailer has a GTW of 10,000 pounds, the tongue weight will likely fall between 1,000 to 1,500 pounds. Ensure the hitch’s TW rating comfortably covers this range.
2. Gross Trailer Weight Rating
Why It Matters
Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) is the total weight of the trailer when fully loaded with cargo. It’s a critical factor because the weight distribution hitch must be capable of handling the entire weight of the loaded trailer. An underrated hitch can lead to dangerous situations, including hitch failure, loss of control, and potential accidents.
What to Look For
Select a weight distribution hitch that has a GTW rating that exceeds the total loaded weight of your trailer. If your trailer’s GTW is close to the hitch’s maximum rating, consider opting for a hitch with a higher capacity to ensure a margin of safety. Additionally, accounting for potential future needs if you plan to carry more weight is wise.
3. Hitch Class
Why It Matters
Hitch classes categorize hitches based on their maximum towing weight capacity and receiver opening size. Choosing the correct hitch class is essential for compatibility with your vehicle’s towing capabilities and the requirements of your trailer. An incompatible hitch can lead to unsafe towing conditions and damage to your vehicle.
What to Look For
Hitches are classified from I to V, with Class I hitches being the lightest, suitable for towing up to 2,000 pounds, and Class V hitches designed for heavy-duty purposes, capable of handling up to 20,000 pounds. Determine the class of hitch required based on your vehicle’s towing capacity and the GTW of your trailer. For weight distribution purposes, you’ll typically be looking at Class III hitches and above. Ensure that the hitch you select not only matches the class required for your towing needs but also fits the receiver size of your towing vehicle.
4. Load Placement
Why It Matters
Load placement refers to how cargo is distributed within your trailer. Proper load placement is vital for maintaining balance and stability during towing. Incorrect load distribution can lead to trailer sway, reduced maneuverability, and increased strain on the towing vehicle, potentially causing accidents or damage.
What to Look For
Ensure that the weight distribution hitch you choose is compatible with the load placement strategy for your trailer. The goal is to achieve even weight distribution across the trailer to avoid placing too much weight either at the front or the back. Look for hitches that offer adjustable tension or distribution settings that can accommodate different load placements and help maintain a level ride. This feature is especially important if your cargo load changes frequently or varies significantly in weight distribution.
5. Weight Capacity
Why It Matters
Weight capacity, distinct from gross trailer weight rating, refers to the maximum weight that the weight distribution hitch itself can safely manage. This includes the combined weight of the trailer and its cargo. Selecting a hitch with a weight capacity that matches or exceeds your towing needs is essential for safety and durability.
What to Look For
The weight capacity of a weight distribution hitch should not only match the gross trailer weight but also provide a buffer to accommodate any potential increases in load. For instance, if your trailer and cargo together weigh 8,000 pounds, look for a hitch with a weight capacity of at least 10,000 pounds. This additional capacity ensures that the hitch can handle unexpected loads or changes in your towing requirements without compromising safety or performance.
6. Sway Control
Why It Matters
Trailer sway is a dangerous condition that can lead to loss of control, accidents, and even rollovers. It is often caused by high winds, passing vehicles, or uneven loads. Sway control mechanisms help to stabilize the trailer and reduce the risk of sway under these conditions.
What to Look For
Choose a weight distribution hitch that includes integrated sway control technology or allows for the addition of a sway control device. There are two main types of sway control: friction sway control, which uses resistance to dampen sway, and dual cam sway control, which works to prevent sway before it starts. Consider your typical driving conditions, the size of your trailer, and your load to determine the most appropriate sway control method. Some hitches come with built-in sway control, while others require an additional purchase, so ensure the system you choose is compatible with your hitch and towing setup.
7. Head Assembly
Why It Matters
The head assembly of a weight distribution hitch is where the hitch ball mounts, and it plays a crucial role in connecting the trailer to the tow vehicle. It’s pivotal for ensuring the proper distribution of weight across the towing setup. A well-designed head assembly allows for smooth operation, easy adjustments, and secure locking mechanisms, contributing to overall towing safety and convenience.
What to Look For
When selecting a weight distribution hitch, examine the head assembly for adjustability features that cater to different towing heights and angles. This flexibility is vital for achieving the correct level between the tow vehicle and the trailer, ensuring an even distribution of weight. Additionally, look for durable construction materials like forged steel and consider models that offer easy-to-use adjustment mechanisms to save time and effort during setup.
8. Types
a. Round Bar
Why It Matters
Round bar hitches use round spring bars that fit into the bottom of the hitch head assembly and are typically suited for lighter to moderate loads. They are known for their ease of use and installation. The round bars work by flexing to distribute the trailer’s weight, which can improve the tow vehicle and trailer’s stability and handling.
What to Look For
If opting for a round bar hitch, consider the terrain and conditions you’ll be towing in. Round bars are generally lower to the ground, which could be a concern on uneven terrain or steep inclines where ground clearance is crucial. Ensure the hitch is rated for your trailer’s weight and that the round bars are of high-quality, durable material to withstand the stresses of towing.
b. Trunnion Bar
Why It Matters
Trunnion bar hitches use square spring bars that slide into the side of the hitch head assembly, providing a higher ground clearance compared to round bar hitches. This type is favored for heavier loads due to their increased strength and the leverage they offer, improving sway control and weight distribution.
What to Look For
When considering a trunnion bar hitch, ensure that the hitch is compatible with your vehicle’s tow rating and that the bars have the capacity to manage your trailer’s weight. Trunnion bars are particularly beneficial for heavier and larger trailers, so the hitch’s weight capacity should reflect your needs. The design should also allow for straightforward adjustment and offer robust construction to tackle heavy-duty towing tasks.
9. Additional Features
a. Spring Bars
Why It Matters
Spring bars are integral to the weight distribution hitch system, as they provide the tension needed to distribute the trailer’s weight across the tow vehicle’s axles. The right spring bars can significantly improve towing stability, reduce sway, and enhance the overall safety of your towing setup.
What to Look For
The key is to select spring bars that match your trailer’s weight and towing setup. Spring bars come in various weight capacities, and using ones that are too light or too heavy for your trailer can negatively affect performance. Look for adjustable or interchangeable spring bars if you anticipate changes in your towing needs. Also, consider the ease of installation and removal, as this will affect the setup and adjustment time.
b. Shank
Why It Matters
The shank is the component that connects the weight distribution hitch to your tow vehicle’s receiver hitch. Its size and adjustability determine the hitch’s compatibility with your vehicle and the ability to achieve the proper height and level for your trailer.
What to Look For
Ensure the shank is compatible with your vehicle’s receiver size—common sizes are 2 inches and 2-1/2 inches. The shank should offer enough adjustability to allow for proper leveling of the trailer with the tow vehicle. Look for a shank that provides a range of height adjustments to accommodate different trailers and vehicles. Also, consider the shank’s weight rating to ensure it can handle the combined weight of your trailer and cargo.
c. Frame Brackets
Why It Matters
Frame brackets attach the spring bars to the trailer frame, playing a critical role in the weight distribution process. Properly installed and adjusted frame brackets ensure the effective transfer of weight, which can lead to improved stability and reduced sway.
What to Look For
Choose frame brackets that are compatible with your trailer’s frame size and shape. Some brackets are designed for specific frame types, such as boxed or C-channel frames, so it’s important to select the correct type. Additionally, consider brackets that offer adjustability for fine-tuning the weight distribution and sway control settings. The materials and construction of the brackets should be durable and robust to withstand the rigors of towing.
Weight Distribution Hitch FAQs
Ans: Towing can be done with or without the weight distribution hitches. But the absence of weight distribution hitches leads to overloading of the rear axles of the towing vehicle. The front axles also tend to lift up due to this phenomenon.
Ans: The swaying is the uncontrolled moving of the trailer from side to side direction which leads to the flipping of the trailer or turning of the towing vehicle. The sway protection helps to minimize or eliminate this movement.
Ans: Hitch classes are designed by focusing on the towing capacity of the towing vehicle. The class 4 and class 5 hitches are suitable for SUVs. They offer a good tongue weight rating and are used for heavy loading conditions.
Ans: If you have a lighter-duty truck (over 5000 pounds) or a heavier-duty truck (between 6000 – 8500 pounds), a weight distribution hitch is necessary, especially when the trailer’s weight exceeds 50% of your vehicle’s weight (GVWR) or if the vehicle’s rear sags after trailer’s hookup. Also, if you experience trailer sway or difficulties in steering and braking.
Ans: Adjusting the weight distribution hitch involves managing the hitch head and bolts, and these pressure points lead to wear and tear. Over time, this might require apparatus adjustments to maintain the hitch’s original positioning. This can be achieved by adding washers to the hitch head.
Ans: Exceeding the rated tension of the weight distribution hitch can lead to breakage, making the load unsafe and potentially causing it to become unhooked or topple. Additionally, it may result in loss of steering and braking control on the vehicle.
Ans: In some cases, you can back up with a weight distribution hitch, but it’s essential to check your owner’s manual for specific guidelines (especially while reversing the trailer). Even, if possible, always disengage the sway-prevention mechanism before reversing.
Ans: Yes, hitch height does affect tongue weight. It’s crucial to check the hitch height before purchase. However, a weight distribution hitch doesn’t reduce tongue weight; instead, it redistributes the weight across the axles for better balance.
Ans: No, a weight distribution hitch doesn’t increase towing capacity. While it improves stability and control within the vehicle’s limits, it doesn’t enhance the overall towing capacity.
Conclusion
There isn’t a single best weight distribution hitch, as the ideal choice depends on your needs. Here are top picks for different priorities:
- Heavy Towing: For heavyweight trailers, consider the Blue Ox Weight Distribution Hitch with its 1,000lb tongue weight capacity.
- Sway Control: The Camco Weight Distribution Hitch boasts excellent sway control and is a good option for confident towing.
- Budget-Friendly: For a value choice, the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Hitch offers good performance at a competitive price point.
Remember, these are just a few options. It’s wise to consider your trailer weight, tongue weight, budget, and desired features before making your final decision.
