HITCHES | WELDING | TRUCK ACCESSORIES

If you are searching for “what is a weight distribution hitch” or “do I need a weight distribution hitch” this post should help!

You May Need a Weight Distribution Hitch If:

You feel trailer sway when larger vehicles pass by or in heavy cross winds

The trailer is weights more than 50% of the weight of the tow vehicle

A large amount of weight has been taken off the front wheels making it hard to stop or steer

The rear of the tow vehicle is doesn’t stay level when the trailer is hooked up

If you’ve changed your tow vehicles ride height, via lift, or other means

A weight distribution hitch, sometimes called a trailer equalizer, is essential for anyone pulling a heavy trailer. It evenly distributes the load of the trailer to allow for a smoother ride. There are different features that models in the market offer. Most features come standard, but there are some systems that also come with a few add-ons. This type of hitch will provide you with the perfect way to seamlessly spread the weight of your trailer in a balanced manner, without placing a lot of stress on any single contact system. Towing a trailer with inadequate weight distribution is as dangerous as it sounds. When shopping around for a weight distribution hitch, these are some things to look out for.

Types of Weight Distribution Hitches

Heavy Duty – The heavy duty systems have a higher Gross Trailer Weight and are available in both Trunnion Style (GTW around 6,000 to 15,000 lbs.) and Round Bar Style (GTW around 6,000 to 14,000 lbs. respectively). Trunnion Bar – These Weight Distributing Hitches have a square type (Trunnion) set of Spring Bars.

Light Duty – The Light Duty systems have a lower GTW (around 3,500 – 5,000 lbs.) rating than the Heavy Duty models. Round Bar – These weight distributing hitches include a round type set of Spring Bars.

Why do I need a Weight Distribution Hitch

• Balancing the load: The load should be balanced between the trailer so that it decreases or prevents the up and downward movement.  Some systems will have bars that allow for the distribution of the load of the trailer tongue, among the axles of the tow vehicle and the trailer itself.

• Sway control: It helps in preventing the trailer from moving side to side. When driving over long distances you may run into strong winds and passing vehicles, especially the heavier ones. These can cause your trailer to sway back and forth. The sway control function works to stop this motion.

• Capacity: These systems come in different capacities for the tongue load as well as the overall gross trailer rating. The weights will match each other. For instance, a 1400 lbs tongue load will have a 14,000 lbs gross trailer rating. You will then decide on the one that fits your class of tow vehicle.

• The weight of the system: Some of these systems can also be on the heavier side. While some may weigh less than 60 lbs, while others can be well over 100 lbs. This is something you need to take into account especially if you are purchasing one that you will need to remove periodically and haul into storage.

• Greasing requirements: Nearly all of the hitches will require frequent greasing. This means that after each outing you will have to re-grease them. This can be relatively messy work.  Nevertheless, there are some that don’t require greasing and you can choose them, if this is something that you would rather avoid.

• Spend The Money:Spend the money and get a dependable weight distribution hitch. A good hitch will probably outlast your tow vehicle and you will never have to worry about steep grades or big rigs roaring by.

Weight Distribution Hitches For Sale

If you live or work in the Phoenix area we carry the best selection of quality weight distribution hitches.  We sell them, and can even install them for our customers at our shop in Mesa, Arizona. Cliff’s Welding, Inc.’s expert installers and team of highly skilled welders can install anything. Call Cliff’s Welding, Inc. for all of your truck and RV accessory needs at 480-832-0570 today.