Weight Distribution Hitches by Eaz-Lift, Reese and Equal-i-zer

Most trailers today require some type of load leveling weight distribution hitch. The purpose is to distribute the hitch (tongue) weight of the trailer as evenly as possible between the trailer axles, front and rear tow vehicle axles. This allows for a safer and smoother towing experience. By using the W/D spring bars to help support and lift trailer tongue loads, much of the stress on the hitching system is removed. In most cases the front to rear "chucking" encountered on washboard type freeways will be greatly reduced or eliminated. Steering control will be returned because the front tires are no longer being lifted off the ground by the excess hitch weight at the rear.

Load equalizing W/D hitches need to be matched to the overall trailer weight, tongue load and tow vehicle capabilities. TowShop carries Eaz-Lift, Draw-Tite and Equal-i-zer hitches in hitch weight capacities from 550 lbs to 1,400 lbs and trailer weights from 6,000 lbs. to 14,000 lbs. Here are some basic recommendations for choosing the correct hitch for your truck and trailer combination:

Be sure to check hitch height before ordering. Most lifted trucks require a shank with more drop. We can supply different drop shanks to fit your application.

Do not exceed vehicle manufacturer's recommended capacities.

DETERMINING THE CORRECT WEIGHT DISTRIBUTING HITCH:

Tongue Weight includes the trailer tongue weight with full gas, water, waste systems and a packed trailer.

Estimate the rear cargo load (includes all items carried in the back of the vehicle).

Match the sum of these weights to the proper W/D Hitch. For example, a tongue weight of 500 lbs., coupled with a rear cargo load of 200 lbs. equates to a total hitch weight of 700 lbs.

From the Guide, the "example" vehicle-trailer combination would require a 750 Weight Distributing Hitch. If there is a future possibility of buying a heavier trailer, it may be wise to select a heavier Weight Distributing Hitch.

Make sure the tongue weight and the gross trailer weight do not exceed the tow vehicle manufacturer's recommended capacities.

The hitch selected must have a maximum Gross Trailer Weight rating equal to or greater than, the trailer rating.

Trailer tongue weight should be at least 10% of gross trailer weight.

TowShop also carries a great selection of replacement parts and accessories for the most popular hitches.

More Info or Purchase

In general there are two types of load equalizing weight distribution hitches. The round bar hitch with 90 degree bent bars that protrude from the bottom of the ball mount is the most common and least expensive. The trunnion style, with bars that attach in the middle of the ball mount provides more ground clearance at the hitch but costs more. Please see the examples of both below.

Popular Eaz-Lift Hitches                  Parts

    14,000/1,400                           Standard Shank
    10,000/1,000                           Extra Drop Shank
    10,000/1,000 (No Shank)         Extra Low Shank
    10,000/750                              Spring Bars
    10,000/550


          Click HERE for most popular Draw-Tite hitch.

In addition, Equal-i-zer Hitch produces a trunnion style hitch with built in sway control and the ability to be used with surge type trailer brakes. Most popular Equal-i-zer

Tips for calculating proper shank drop/rise:

Measure from ground to top of receiver hitch opening.

Measure from ground to inside top of trailer coupler.

Subtract hitch ball height (not including trailer ball shank) from coupler height measurement.

Difference between receiver height and final coupler height measurement is the amount of shank drop or rise needed.

Example:    Top of receiver measures       24"
                    Top of coupler measures      19"
                    Trailer ball measures             3"
                     Drop needed                         8"