travel trailer hitch wd

RV Hitch & Tow

Last updated on: January 4, 2022

The 12 Best Weight Distribution Hitches to Buy in 2022

by Chris Coleman

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While towing your trailer, one of the most important priorities is to maintain control over your towing setup to minimize the odds of accidents. A way to ensure safe towing and good handling on the road is to get the best weight distribution hitch . By ensuring that your rig packs the right hitch before every towing operation, you can stabilize your towing setup and avoid common issues such as swaying.

To determine the best weight distribution hitch for your circumstances, you certainly need to do your homework to understand their components and working mechanism, the different types of weight distribution trailer hitches, their benefits and when you would need one, the most important buying criteria and a few dos and don’ts. This article will equip you with everything you need to know about weight distribution hitches, and provide answers to the most frequently asked questions by your fellow campers. 

Best Weight Distribution Hitches Comparison Chart

What is a weight distribution hitch, when you would need a weight distribution hitch, components of a weight distribution system, how does a weight distribution hitch work , benefits of weight distribution hitches, types of weight distribution hitches, 1. andersen 3350 – best of the best , 2. curt 17007 – editor’s choice, 3. camco eaz-lift 48056 – editor’s choice , 4. camco eaz-lift 48053, 5. equal-i-zer 90-00-1000, 6. husky 31423, 7. curt 17062, 8. reese pro series 49913, 9. fastway e2, 10. husky 32218, 11. camco eaz-lift 48733, 12. blue ox swaypro bxw1500, critical weight distribution hitch considerations, top brands of weight distribution hitches, q1. do weight distribution hitches reduce tongue weight, q2. does a weight distribution hitch increase towing capacity, q3. how much weight does a weight distribution hitch distribute, q4. when do you need a weight distribution hitch, q5. can weight distribution be used with surge brakes, q6. how to stop your trailer from swaying on the road, q7. what is the best weight distribution hitch with sway control, weight distribution hitch basics.

A weight distribution hitch , also referred to as a load equalizing hitch, does exactly what the name suggests. It is a hitch that evenly distributes the weight of your payload that you tow behind your vehicle. 

A weight distribution hitch does this by using adjustable spring bars and tension to distribute the load of the trailer tongue to the trailer and the towing vehicle axles. A trailer’s tongue weight (TW) refers to the weight that a fully loaded trailer exerts downward on the hitch ball of the tow vehicle. Tongue weight should be between 10% to 15% of gross trailer weight (GTW) for good control and handling on the road. 

As you already know, driving a vehicle with a trailer towed behind, connected by a hitch is very different from driving a vehicle alone in terms of handling, due to the added weight and size as well as the swaying from side to side. Without the proper hitch and the best weight distribution hitch, you might have a very hard time maneuvering and thus the risk of accidents is significantly higher. The purpose of getting the best weight distribution hitch is to keep everything balanced, so that you gain more control of the towing vehicle and trailer combo as they turn and brake. 

When you’re towing a trailer, what comes into play are the tow vehicle’s weight, the trailer’s weight and the weight put on the hitch ball. The relationship between these factors will affect your handling on the road. In other words, what matters to controllability here is the trailer’s tongue weight, that is the weight that a fully loaded trailer exerts downward on the hitch ball of the tow vehicle.

Firstly, if the trailer’s tongue weight is too light, that is the tongue of the trailer does not exert enough downward force on the tow vehicle’s hitch ball, the trailer could sway from side to side and this can result in dangerous accidents. On the other hand, if the tongue weight is too heavy, the steering of the tow vehicle will be affected.

The good news is you can avoid both of these issues by using the best weight distribution hitches to maintain the ideal balance between the gross trailer weight  and tongue weight. 

You can weigh your trailer by taking it to a commercial scale at truck stops. The rule of thumb is 10% to 12% of the trailer’s weight must be on the tongue where it hitches to your vehicle. 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. 

In general, if you’re experiencing one or more of the following, you’re most likely to benefit from a trailer weight distribution hitch:

• Your gross trailer weight (GTW) is more than 50% of your tow vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating is the maximum total safe weight of your vehicle, including the curb weight or the weight of your vehicle when empty, the weight of passengers, fuel, any accessories added to the vehicle, cargo, and the tongue weight of the towed trailer.
• Difficulty when maneuvering: You experience trailer sway, or find it difficult to steer or stop your rig.
• Your tow vehicle’s headlights point upward, and/or the rear of your tow vehicle sags when the trailer is hooked up. This means too much weight is resting on the rear of your tow vehicle, which greatly affects handling.
• You want to tow to the highest capacity allowed by your trailer hitch. If your hitch is rated for use with weight distribution, a good weight distribution system will allow you to tow at the maximum capacity of the hitch. 

* Important note: Keep in mind that not all hitches are designed for use with weight distribution systems. Every trailer hitch will have a weight rating label; always check it for the weight distribution towing capacity. If there is no such capacity specified, then a weight distribution system cannot be used with the existing hitch.

A typical weight distribution system consists of five major components:

Class III, IV, or V trailer hitch receiver: As above, the trailer hitch receiver must be rated for use with weight distribution. It attaches to the frame of your tow vehicle and provides the receiver opening that the weight distribution shank slides into.

Weight distribution shank: The weight distribution shank slides into your trailer hitch receiver to create an attachment point for the weight distribution head assembly. To ensure your trailer is level with your vehicle, manufacturers make shanks available in a wide variety of lengths, rises and drops.

You can purchase a weight distribution hitch that comes with a shank, or you can purchase a hitch and a shank separately. Campers would usually opt for separate purchases when they require a greater rise or drop than provided by the standard shank included in the kit.

Spring bars: Spring bars redistribute the load on the rear of your tow vehicle to all the axles on your tow vehicle and trailer. Spring bars come in round, trunnion, and square shapes.

Frame brackets: Available in various designs, frame brackets mount to the frame of your trailer and secure the spring bars to the trailer. Standard weight distribution systems use a frame bracket and chain system to hold the spring bars in place. Meanwhile, many higher-end systems have special sway-control brackets for superior anti-sway capability.

Weight distribution head assembly: Head assemblies attach to the weight distribution shank, provide a place to mount the hitch ball for trailer hookup, and provide the spring bar attachment point. The head assembly will also be used to fine-tune the amount of leverage applied to the system. Different weight distribution systems use different types of head assembly, so the design differs between products.

As a highly sought-after feature, many standard head assemblies have built-in platforms for mounting friction sway control bars. Friction sway control bars mount to a smaller ball on the side of the weight distribution head. Some heads have dual platforms so that you can mount a sway control bar on either side or both sides)of your trailer, while some models only allow for a right-side attachment. 

To understand how a weight distribution hitch comes into play when you tow a heavy trailer behind your vehicle, it’s important to understand the physics behind the setup. When you tow a trailer with a standard, rear-mounted hitch, the trailer’s tongue weight is rested on or transferred to the rear axle of your tow vehicle. Too much weight can make your vehicle’s back sag and cause the front to point upward, especially on vehicles that have suspension designed for everyday comfort.

When the front of your tow vehicle points upward, this means that most of the weight of the tow vehicle is resting on its own rear axle, and on top of that, it is also bearing the weight of the traileras well. This, plus the lessened weight on the vehicle’s front axle obviously has a negative effect on traction, steering and your ability to brake, and can increase the magnitude of trailer sway. The vehicle’s front pointing upwards might also mean that your view of the road may be limited due to the awkward angle.

So how does a weight distribution hitch help? A weight distribution hitch would redistribute the weight away from the tongue and onto the axles of the towing vehicles. This reduces the load that the rear of towing vehicles has to bear. This even redistribution of weight results in a smoother, level ride, and also allows you to tow at the maximum capacity of your hitch.

One important note that we must emphasize: Many campers misunderstand that weight distribution hitches can “reduce” tongue weight. This is not true. In other words, these systems won’t allow you to tow beyond the capacities of the tow vehicle. 

If your hitch is rated for use with weight distribution, a good weight distribution system will allow you to tow at the maximum capacity of the hitch. So a weight distribution hitch allows the hitch to be used at its maximum capacity but doesn’t increase the hitch’s capacity. 

Learn more on how it works here !

Controllability : With weight distribution trailer hitches around, the weight of towing setups should be equally spread among the axles instead of concentrating at the rear of your tow vehicle. This allows for a more balanced weight distribution and thus helps you gain more control of your towing setup. 

Safety : Maneuvering with a trailer behind is no easy game; it demands practice and skills. It’s much more challenging than normal driving and the risk of accidents is higher, but using a solid weight distribution hitch for hauling heavy loads would allow you better handling. Even when you come across something unexpected, having a good hitch would allow you to have better control of the whole setup and to better respond in a timely manner. 

Cost : Managing trailers is never easy and all it needs is one moment of carelessness for your trailers to sustain damages that incur expensive repairs. By picking up a trailer weight distribution hitch for enhanced control , you should have no trouble keeping your pricey trailers out of harm’s way.

Generally, weight distribution hitches come in all sizes and shapes but today’s market contains three types of models: round bar, trunnion bar and Andersen. 

Round Bar Hitches

Basic and practical, round bar hitches work superbly in multiple towing setups. Carrying round sway bars that attach to the bottom of ball mounts of trailers, models of the type could consistently distribute weight of the vehicles. On the downside, due to less than ideal ground clearance, round bar hitches don’t do very well on backroads. 

Trunnion Bar Hitches

In use, trunnion bar hitches operate similarly to round bar ones but instead of round, their sway bars happen to be square. Moreover, since the sway bars attach to the center of ball mounts of trailers, models of the type tend to boast top-notch ground clearance. However, it usually takes a bit of time to change the height of the hitch head. 

Andersen Hitches

Unlike other hitches, Andersen hitches do away with sway bars in favor of highly flexible chains and dampers. With models of the type, people would be able to keep bouncing and swaying to the minimum while traveling. Andersen hitches have steep prices though so it’s necessary to be thorough about shopping budgets.

Reviews On The Best Weight Distribution Hitches

Preferences often differ significantly between people so there is no such thing as the best weight distribution hitch for everyone. Still, if you wish to get to know top-performing hitches then you have to check out the following models. 

Why This Is The Best: 

Designed from the ground up with practicality in mind, Andersen 3350 works like a charm in a wide range of situations. Possessing excellent weight ratings, the Andersen weight distribution hitch allows people to haul all sorts of loads with relative ease. Additionally, with a combination of self-adjust sway control and motion-dampening system, 3350 provides users with fantastic control over trailers. As a result, those that hit the road with heavy-laden trailers think of Andersen 3350 as the best weight distribution hitch at its rice range. 

In terms of installation, the setup process of 3350 is undemanding and there is no need to resort to pry bars. On arrival, the hitch of Andersen is accompanied by everything so it’s unnecessary to make separate purchases for hardware. When positioned and secured, Andersen 3350 is going to serve you until the day it breaks down without requiring special attention. Interestingly, since 3350 is engineered with one-pin removal, you could detach it in a blink of an eye as well. 

As proof of confidence, Andersen offers its hitch with a marvelous lifetime warranty that covers manufacturing defects which speak volumes. If your 3350 experience issues in the course of operation, you have something to count on. 

• Installation is child’s play 
• No-nonsense maintenance 
• Customer service is less than ideal 
• Users detect several inconsistencies between hitches 

Why It’s An Editor’s Choice: 

Featuring head and spring bars that employ top-of-the-line steel, Curt 17007 is praised for its outstanding structural integrity. Also, the integration of carbide powder coat finish means 17007 could handle heat, humidity, sunlight and so on without much difficulty. Thus, regarding longevity, the weight distribution hitch made by Curt is among the top-ranked models in its price range. Curt 17007 packs a decent weight capacity as well, hence, it suits plenty of towing operations. 

The hitch of Curt incorporates an adjustable shank that is compatible with all standard two-inch trailer hitch receivers and that makes it highly versatile. Moreover, with snap-on brackets, 17007 mount onto the frames of trailers in a flash and via the lift handle, leveraging it is a cakewalk too. That is why no matter the arrangement, the setup process of Curt 17007 rarely drags out and everything the users need lies in the rig toolbox. Since the hitch from Curt is a breeze to maintain on the road, keeping it operational is an easy task. 

When you opt to pick up Curt 17007, you would receive a terrific lifetime manufacturer warranty so you don’t have to be concerned about defects. Aside from that, the Curt hitch is fairly inexpensive so its purchase would have inconsequential effects on your upcoming spendings. 

• Smooth operation 
• Detailed installation instructions 
• Certain hitches arrive with signs of damages 
• Hardly adequate packaging 

Dependable and reliable, Camco Eaz-Lift 48056 usually gives a good account of itself in use which earns it numerous compliments. Upon purchase, the hitch made by Camco comes pre-installed with the hitch ball, sway control, U-bolts and chains. Because of that, people could begin installing Eaz-Lift 48056 the moment it leaves the packaging and wrap up the setup process in a few minutes. In addition, boasting a black exterior that is aesthetically-pleasing, Camco Eaz-Lift 48056 matches the color themes of various rigs. 

Constructed using premium steel, Eaz-Lift 48056 features wonderful endurance compared to the average weight distribution hitches on the market nowadays. From elements in the outdoors to physical impacts, the hitch from Camco is capable of dealing with all towing challenges. Therefore, even if Camco Eaz-Lift 48056 is used on a daily basis, years would pass before it must be replaced. Needless to say, Eaz-Lift 48056 is highly sought after by those that hate to spend money on frequent hitch replacements. 

Available at an affordable price, Eaz-Lift 48056 of Camco is the best weight distribution hitch for people with tight wallets. Besides that, so as to reassure users, Camco willingly backs its weight distribution hitch with a five-year manufacturer warranty.

• Long-lasting 
• Setup process is instantaneous 
• Quality control still leaves something to be desired 
• Reports of loosening bolts appear sporadically 

Why We Love It: 

With the ability to deliver significant boosts to controllability of towing setups, Camco Eaz-Lift 48053 is held in high esteem by a lot of people. As it consists of far fewer parts than its contemporaries, Eaz-Lift 48053 possesses first-class reliability in the course of operation. Packing positive latching action, the towing hitch of Camco is also simple to operate. Naturally, once it comes to convenience, Camco Eaz-Lift 48053 is known as the best weight distribution hitch money can buy. 

Regarding capacity, the hitch made by Camco is put together with a GTWR of 10,000 pounds and a TW of 1,000 pounds. That is going to be more than enough to let users tow an assortment of trailers at their max load. Furthermore, the ball height of Eaz-Lift 48053 is adjustable so adapting it to variable arrangements is a piece of cake. About maintenance, pretty much all the hitch of Camco need to stay in working order is periodical cleaning and lubrication. 

For post-purchase support, Camco Eaz-Lift 48053 is backed with a five-year manufacturer warranty. If your Eaz-Lift 48053 fails due to defects within the warranty period, you could claim a replacement free of charge. It’s worth pointing out since the Camco hitch is a low-priced model, the cost of replacement remains budget-friendly after the warranty expires. 

• Inexpensive 
• Decent capacity 
• Easy to install 
• People sometimes complain about missing hardware 
• Packaging is mediocre 

Tired of frantically fighting with swaying while maneuvering your towing setup on the road and need an anti-sway hitch ? Then there is a good chance that you would come to like Equal-i-zer 90-00-1000. Owing to the solid 4-point sway control, the hitch from Equal-i-zer is able to effectively and efficiently restrict horizontal motions of the trailers. That is why with 90-00-1000 installed on your rig, you should have no trouble keeping everything under control at all times. 

The setup process of Equal-i-zer 90-00-1000 involves no drilling or tapping so it only takes mere moments to complete. Assuming that the installation is done correctly, 90-00-1000 should work smoothly without making a racket in use which ensures quiet operation. Unsurprisingly, those that seek tranquility think of the Equal-i-zer as the best weight distribution hitch available for purchase. Aside from that, being specifically created for universal application, the compatibility of 90-00-1000 of Equal-i-zer is terrific as well. 

In terms of maintenance, the towing hitch made by Equal-i-zer could be cleaned and lubricated in no time. Hence, if you grab 90-00-1000, you may spend more time towing and less time maintaining accessories. Though its steep price, the values that Equal-i-zer 90-00-1000 provide match what it costs. 

• Low noise level 
• Sturdy and stable 
• Maintenance is no sweat 
• Fitness difficulty is noted 
• Particular hitches show up without hardware 

Capable of equally distributing heights of various towing setups, Husky 31423 earns positive remarks from plenty of weight distribution hitch reviews. Featuring a hitch head that could accept spring bars of variable capacities, 31423 adapts rather well to a diversity of operations. Moreover, with multiple built-in height levels, the hitch made by Husky allows people to quickly raise and lower it depending on the current situation. As a result, regarding versatility, Husky 31423 proves to be second to none on the market. 

Covered in black polyester finish that packs wonderful resistance against corrosion, the Husky weight distribution hitch rarely experiences rust problems in the course of operation. Thus, 31423 is kind of popular among people that have to haul heavy loads through coastal regions from time to time. Also, the installation of Husky 31423 is quite intuitive so you don’t have to be a mechanic to position and secure it on your own. The hitch from Husky is accompanied by hardware too and that is a big plus. 

Husky 31423 is backed with both a lifetime manufacturer warranty and a ninety-day commercial guarantee. In the case that you value sound insurance policies, you should add 31423 to your shortlist. Compared to typical models, the weight distribution hitch of Husky is low-priced so you don’t have to empty your wallet to buy it. 

• Splendid ruggedness 
• Capacity is sublime 
• Delivery service requires improvements 
• Pins of hitches drop out now and then 

Being fashioned to offer a comfortable ride by allocating trailer weight across the axles, Curt 17062 never lets its user down. Thanks to the presence of forged steel spring bars, the Curt weight distributing hitch could handle significant amounts of weight in use without giving out. Additionally, since 17062 is powder-coated, it’s less vulnerable to elements in the outdoors than other hitches of its type. Because of that, Curt 17062 is prized by those that travel year-round and don’t have a lot of opportunities to pick up replacement hitches. 

One interesting thing about 17062 is that it contains several easy-access grease fittings that facilitate continuous lubrication on the road. Hence, keeping the hitch made by Curt up and running as time passes by would be a piece of cake. The noise level of Curt 17062 is fairly low so you should seldom feel bothered by noise while hauling ladened trailers. Last but not least, explicitly built with an emphasis on adjustability, 7062 is compatible with a wide range of towing setups. 

Upon purchase, Curt 17062 came alongside hardware for installation so you could set it up in just a matter of minutes. Curt backs its towing hitch with a lifetime manufacturer warranty that brings people much-needed peace of mind as well. 

• Tech-support is responsive 
• Well-written owner’s manual 
• Missing hardware is noted 
• Threads of hitch screws tend to strip 

Assembled for today’s demands and built to last for years, Reese Pro Series 49913 adapts marvelously to modern towing operation. Packing a fantastic friction sway control that prevents swaying caused by crosswind, sharp maneuvers and curved roads, Pro Series 49913 permits people to maintain total control. Furthermore, with high-endurance forged and tapered steel spring bars, the hitch from Reese could handle hardship without breaking down. As a result, those who desire well-rounded weight distribution hitches consider Pro Series 49913 of Reese as the best weight distribution hitch for travel trailer . 

Since the Reese hitch is a preinstalled model that arrives with hardware already attached, its setup process is pretty short. The inclusion of an ergonomic integrated handle greatly reduces the time it takes to engage and disengage Pro Series 49913 too. In times of need, it’s possible to remove Reese Pro Series 49913 from towing vehicles by releasing two locking pins. Thus, if you like to stay flexible as you haul heavy loads, the weight distribution hitch of Reese is going to be what you need. 

About affordability, Reese Pro Series 49913 reaches the market at a price that everyone could accept. That means squeezing the hitch made by Reese into the spending plan would be essentially a walk in the park. 

• Quick shipping 
• Commendable durability 
• Simple to manipulate 
• Instructions could use some work 
• Users complain about receiving incorrect hitches from time to time 

Basic and practical, Fastway e2 is capable of stopping most towing setups from getting out of control in the outdoors. With tip-top built-in sway control that features steel-on-steel friction, e2 continuously fights sway which optimizes controllability. In addition to that, the hitch made by Fastway is put together as one all-inclusive system so there is no need for add-ons. That is why people don’t have to dedicate much time and stamina to the installation/removal of Fastway e2.

Unlike other weight distribution hitches on the market, Fastway e2 evenly divides the weight of trailers regardless of the angles. Therefore, owners of the Fastway hitch may tow heavy-laden trailers without having to worry about any restrictions in maneuverability. In use, by creating a steady bridge between your trailer and rig, e2 would let them work together as one unit instead of two vehicles. With Fastway e2 around, you should have an easy time bringing your trailers to destinations. 

The weight distribution hitch of Fastway boasts a black finish on its exterior surface so it excels at blending in. If you hate to see your hitch standing out like a sore thumb, e2 is undoubtedly the best anti-sway trailer hitch you could get.

• Slim and sleek 
• Reasonable price 
• Stability is impressive 
• Barely acceptable packaging 
• Customer service is unresponsive  

Possessing a heavy-duty body that consists of forged and hardened steel components, Husky 32218 is superior to ordinary weight distribution hitches in terms of ruggedness. In the course of operation, the hitch from Husky could withstand everything that people and the outdoors throw at it. Thus, for towing operations that involve both rough roads and challenging elements, 32218 is recognized as one of the leading options. Aside from that, Husky 32218 works in a quiet manner so noise is less than an issue and that is advantageous.

On arrival, 32218 comes with a preinstalled and torqued hitch ball that accelerates the setup process and eliminates the need to purchase the ball separately too. Moreover, owing to the incorporation of a handle, users would be able to engage and disengage the hitch of Husky in a couple of seconds. As a result, for those that lack the patience to hook up complicated hitches, Husky 32218 is the best anti-sway trailer hitch available for purchase. Being a breeze to clean and lubricate, 32218 requires minimal labor once it comes to maintenance. 

With a GTWR of 12,000 pounds and a TW that stretches from 800 to 1,200 pounds, Husky 32218 could superbly support standard towing setups. The frame of the Husky hitch is also fully adjustable so its flexibility is outstanding. 

• Intuitive handling 
• Noise level is low 
• A number of hitches arrive damaged 
• Shank is slightly short 

Loaded from top to bottom with innovative features and functions, Camco Eaz-Lift 48733 never fails to please people in use. By utilizing top-loading spring bars, Eaz-Lift 48733 provides extra ground clearance for towing setup which certainly helps a lot. Additionally, equipped with automatic sway control that engages and disengages on its own based on current condition, the Camco hitch is good at addressing swaying. Hence, Camco Eaz-Lift 48733 is the best sway control hitch for people that place handling above all while towing trailers. 

As for capacity, the ratings of the hitch made by Camco seem unexceptional but they remain adequate: 10,000 pounds for GTWR and 1,000 pounds for TW. If you opt to pick up Camco Eaz-Lift 48733 then you could haul a wide range of loads with relative ease. Besides that, constructed using materials with admirable durability, Eaz-Lift 48733 would last a long time. Lastly, the hitch from Camco carries a handy powder-coating that resists corrosion so you don’t have to bother with rust on the road. 

The installation of Camco Eaz-Lift 48733 is undemanding, therefore, setting it up is a cinch and there is no need to invest in additional hardware. When Eaz-Lift 48733 is installed properly, it operates without squeaking or squealing so its users should have no trouble focusing. 

• Terrific lifespan 
• Hitch mounts twist over time 
• Several people report getting incomplete hitches 

Your trailer is kind of heavy so you need a trailer hitch with sway bars that pack high weight ratings? Then it’s suggested that you take a look at SwayPro BXW1500 of Blue Ox. With GTWR of 15,000 pounds and a TW of 1,500 pounds, the weight distribution hitch from Blue Ox could accommodate substantial weights and maintain stability in environments. Also, with flexible spring bars that don’t have to be greased, SwayPro BXW1500 performs fluidly without needing dedicated maintenance.

With its head receiving adjustments before delivery, Blue Ox Sway Pro BXW1500 is ready-to-use as soon as it’s out of the packaging. Hence, during the installation of the Blue Ox hitch, there is no need to waste significant time on fine-tuning. It’s noteworthy that Pro BXW1500 happens to integrate quick latching that permits rapid hitch engagement and disengagement as well. Even when you have to back up your rig, it’s unnecessary to disconnect SwayPro BXW1500 of Blue Ox altogether. 

In the course of operation, Blue Ox Pro BXW1500 seldom let out sounds which contribute to a low noise level. So with  the hitch made by Blue Ox, you could give your ears a break as you maneuver your trailer

• Great ground clearance 
• Magnificent capacity 
• Resistance to elements is excellent 
• Shipping needs to be overhauled 
• Kind of cumbersome 

Weight distribution hitches pack various features and functions but if you hope to get your money worth, it’s imperative that you remember these criteria 

WEIGHT CAPACITY 

Overall, different trailers come at different weights which is why you need to pay special attention to the weight capacity of your load distribution hitch . If you pair your towing setup with hitches that possesses inappropriate capacities then handling characteristics would worsen instead of improving. Normally, you could deduce the ideal weight capacity for your hitch by using GTW (Gross Trailer Weight) and TW (Tongue Weight) rating as guidelines. You should be able to locate those ratings in the owner’s manual of your trailer. 

One more common question is whether a weight distribution hitch can be too big for your trailer. The answer is you can’t have ‘too much’ of a weight distribution hitch. However, the spring bars must be matched closely with the trailer for the system to work properly. Too weak and not enough weight is transferred to the front axle of the tow.

SWAY CONTROL 

The last thing you want to experience while hauling heavy loads is to see your towing setup swaying uncontrollably in the midst of a turn. Because of that, as you search the market for the best weight distribution hitch , it’s strongly recommended that you take sway control into account. Nowadays,  models utilize many methods to address swaying: 

Some stop the sway as it unfolds: One prime example is the friction bar that attaches to the frame of trailers and weight distribution hitches. When the trailer moves out of the line, a downward force would be applied to the friction bar which limits further side-to-side movements. 

One more thing to note is a weight distribution hitch system is either featuring dependent sway control or independent friction sway control. Each type deals with swaying differently.

With dependent sway control models, once the swaying starts, the spring bars will produce a downward force, which provides frictional resistance to the brackets located on your trailer frame’s sides. The friction comes from steel-on-steel resistance plus resistance from material that has the same consistency with brake pads. 

Meanwhile, independent sway control models create friction through the use of a bar that bolts onto your trailer’s frame and is also attached to the hitch system, producing enough resistance to keep your trailer from swaying. This type of anti-sway system also features an interior bar that helps out by telescoping in and out to stop any bucking or binding of your trailer.

An independent anti-sway hitch system also features friction pads that will come into contact with each other you’re towing to produce extra resistance, further reducing any swaying.

Some models prevent it from happening in the first place: Some of the best weight distribution hitch with sway control integrate cams to secure spring bars, which will suspend and lock the spring bars into place. One end of a cam will attach onto the lift bracket via the lift chain and the other to your trailer’s frame. The spring bar’s rounded metal ends then sit inside the cams. This controlled location of the spring bars keeps the entire setup secure, so that your trailer will not sway from side to side.

Besides that, certain weight distribution hitches come with an innovative built-in 4-way sway control that rely on a stable connection in the head unit to get enough tension. 

Meanwhile, the other two-points anti-sway systems work to provide resistance as well. These two points will work to ensure there’s enough tension produced throughout the hitch’s system, which will ensure swaying never becomes an issue. 

PRE-INSTALLED COMPONENTS  

The time and stamina that go into the installation of weight distribution hitches tend to vary from model to model. That being said, models that arrive with pre-installed components usually don’t require much to get up and running. Hence, if you have a schedule to follow, it’s widely advised that you keep an eye out for hitches that come installed with components. To determine whether a particular model is delivered with pre-installed components, you should check out its owner’s manual. 

INSTALLATION 

You always have the option of hiring others and let them take care of the hitch installation in your stead. However, considering that you have already put aside money for a hitch, why don’t you grab one that you could set up on your own and cut unnecessary spendings? In most cases, you would get a general idea about the complexity of setup process of a weight distribution hitch via the owner’s manual. For good measure, it’s suggested that you read several customer reviews and see what people say about the setup process of models you like. 

DURABILITY 

In the course of operation, weight distribution hitches must constantly manage substantial weights and deal with plenty of outdoor elements. That is why as you assess models on the market, you have to keep durability in mind at all times. If you hit the road with a flimsy hitch that is prone to fail, not only you need to spend money on replacements but you also risk your well-being. By inspecting the construction material, it’s a breeze to see how well models hold up as time passes by. 

• Below $500 : With the ability to take on the average towing loads, weight distribution hitches in the price range work superbly in an assortment of operations. In addition, models that cost less than $500 have excellent compatibility so it’s simple to pair them with standard setups. 
• Above $500 : Intentionally optimized for demanding operations, weight distribution hitches in the price range could withstand significant weights and unforgiving elements. While dropping more than $500 on a weight distribution hitch may seem excessive, you could save money in the long run thanks to lengthened replacement intervals.

Today’s weight distribution hitches come from a wide range brands but in terms of reputability, a couple of names stand out from the rest  

With decades of experience in designing towing hitches and associated accessories, Camco knows exactly what people face on the road. In the case that you seek a no-nonsense anti-sway hitch that could even out the trailer weight, you should prioritize models from Camco. 

Known for assembling hitches that rely on chains and dampers instead of sway bars, Andersen is held in high esteem by a lot of people. Once it comes to adaptability, Andersen hitches don’t have many competitors on the market. 

Equal-i-zer

Owing to the user-oriented approach, Equal-i-zer is capable of releasing solid hitches that rarely let people down. In addition to that, reaching the market at reasonable prices, models made by Equal-i-zer match multiple shopping budgets. 

By emphasizing utility, Blue Ox and its weight distribution hitches receive a shower of praise from those who have to routinely haul heavy loads. It’s noteworthy that Blue Ox models arrive with virtually everything too so they don’t take long to set up.

FAQs About Weight Distribution Hitches

Weight distribution hitches do not reduce tongue weight or in other words, allow you to tow beyond the capacities of the vehicle. What these systems do is distribute the tongue weight of a trailer up to the front axle of the tow vehicle so that it will sit more level and thus handle and brake better. 

No. As weight distribution hitches do not reduce tongue weight, in other words, these systems won’t allow you to tow beyond the capacities of the tow vehicle.  If your hitch is rated for use with weight distribution, the weight distribution system will allow you to tow at the maximum capacity of the hitch. Weight distribution doesn’t “increase” your hitch’s capacity so much as it allows the hitch to be used at its maximum capacity. 

A weight distribution system typically offers even weight distribution: it redistributes about 1/3 of the tongue weight onto the trailer axles, 1/3 of the tongue weight onto the tow vehicle’s rear axle, and the remaining 1/3 onto the tow vehicle’s front axle.

Every truck of any size requires a weight-distributing hitch when using a bumper trailer hitch ball. Using a weight distribution hitch becomes more necessary as your trailer weight gets closer to your tow vehicle weight, and is a must if your gross trailer weight when fully loaded is more than 50% of your tow vehicle gross weight. In addition to a weight distribution system, trailer brakes are also recommended in these cases. As a rule of thumb for safety, most mid-size and half-ton trucks require it when gross trailer weight exceeds 5,000 pounds, while heavy-duty trucks will require a weight distribution system when trailer weight exceeds 6,000 pounds. The limit for the most heavy-duty trucks might be around 8,500 pounds.

Not every weight distribution hitches can be used with surge brakes. This is because most chain-style systems are not compatible with surge brakes as they do not allow for enough back and forth movement of the trailer to activate the actuator. Only specified systems rated as surge brake compatible can be used with surge brakes. One note is even if a chain-style weight distribution system is rated as surge brake compatible, adding friction sway control bars to these systems will make the system incompatible with surge brakes. To make sure your brakes operate at maximum effectiveness and are not prevented from compressing, you must not use a chain/snap-up bracket system with your surge brakes.

1. Adjust tongue weight Not enough tongue weight is the most common cause for trailer sway. The tongue weight must be 10 to 12 percent of the trailer’s weight for the most balanced and level drive. For example, if the gross weight of your trailer is 2,500 pounds, the tongue weight on the hitch should be about 250 pounds.  As a quick fix before you can buy the best weight distribution hitch for your trailer, you can try to redistribute the weight as necessary by removing some items, place heavier cargo at the front of the trailer, center the cargo left-to-right, and use reinforcements to firmly secure the cargo to prevent them from moving around. 2. Proper tyres inflation In addition to getting the best weight distribution hitch that you can afford, the very first thing you should do is ensure that the tyres of both your tow vehicle and your trailer are properly inflated. Underinflation is a common culprit for unlevel and unbalanced drive, while overinflation might make the ride more bumpy. 3. Install a friction sway control device The most ideal course of action is to get a best weight distribution anti sway hitch. Otherwise, you can get a friction sway control device designed for use in trailers that have a low tongue weight percentage. For trailers that are over 5,000 pounds, sway control devices should be attached to both sides of the trailer hitch. These friction sway control devices reduce the effects of sudden gusts of strong wind and sharp turning by applying resistance to the trailer and vehicle with respect to each other. When driving, stop and turn the adjustment handle a quarter of a turn in the clockwise direction, which adds more friction. Continue to do this until your trailer feels straight and stable.  4. Sway control bar Most weight distribution hitches allow the trailer to be backed into place without having to be taken off. But when you’re backing into tight turns, you might experience swaying because of the sway control bar. If you have a sway control bar, it’s recommended to disengage it before reversing or tight maneuvering. 5. Do not overload your trailer Keep in mind that your load capacity includes the weight of the trailer, tongue, vehicle, and your passengers. 6. Avoid windy conditions If you can’t, here are some tips for safe driving with minimal swaying in these conditions: Steady the steering wheel at all times: do not make sudden turns, and do not try to steer out of a sway situation. Never slam on the brakes when you’re experiencing trailer sway but gradually and steadily reduce speed instead. Try to keep the speed at a moderate level whenever you’re not on the highway, since higher speeds make trailer sway more severe. Apply only the trailer brakes to help reduce sway. If the problem persists, it’s safest to pull over to evaluate the cause of the sway. Whether or not you can pinpoint the culprit right away, it’s best to head to the nearest repair shop to have the problem looked at.

Weight distribution hitches that pay special attention to sway control usually shout it in their name, like the Fastway E2 2-point Sway Control that’s famous for its 2-point sway control feature. This model indeed receives raving reviews from buyers and is one of the best sway control hitch products on the market, but remember that you must browse through the reviews to see if the product really delivers what it’s advertised to do. There are also models with advertised adjustable sway control, like the Camco Chem 48751 ReCurve R3 Weight Distribution Hitch Kit , also a favourite among campers. What RVers love about this product is that it delivers an unprecedented amount of sway control placed on your trailer by adjusting the clam, and you can turn this feature off or on whenever it fits your situation.

Also in  RV Hitch & Tow , we’re providing thorough reviews and buying guides which help RV campers have peace of minds choosing the  best fifth wheel hitches for short bed trucks , best removable fifth wheel hitches , best anti-rattle hitch devices , best trailer hitch locks , best electric tongue jacks , best tow dollies  on the market today.

About Chris Coleman

Chris Coleman is an interesting travel blogger and outdoor photographer with a great sense of humor. He owns an RV Accessories shop in New York City so he has the knowledge necessary to provide thorough reviews and give advice on how to choose the right products for RV travel. He puts all that RV knowledge and experience to good use in his sharing posts. Besides product buying guides/reviews, Chris also writes informative articles, how-to articles and RV camping guides in his own interesting viewpoint. Chris’s blog is one of the most reliable information sources for RV campers no matter if you're an expert or a determined beginner.

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6 types of fifth wheel hitches, when to use them and which ones to buy, best 5th wheel to gooseneck adapters: an in-depth review, the 6 best removable fifth wheel hitches to buy in 2022, the 12 best anti-rattle hitch devices to buy in 2022, the 5 best rv tow dollies to buy in 2022, the 12 best electric tongue jacks to buy in 2022, the 7 best trucks for towing 5th wheel trailers, the 12 best trailer hitch locks (review) in 2022, gas vs diesel for towing a fifth wheel: which one is better, how does weight distribution hitch work, how to increase towing capacity on a vehicle, trailer hitch installation cost: the ultimate guide, the 12 best fifth wheel hitches for short bed trucks, gooseneck vs. 5th wheel hitch: what’s the difference, 1 thought on “the 12 best weight distribution hitches to buy in 2022”.

Dear Mr. Coleman:

I am curious as to why the Hensley Arrow Towing System (which eliminates sway when towing) did not make your list of the best weight distribution hitches. Perhaps because it is not a traditional weight distribution hitch but in a separate towing system category.

FYI — We towed our 29′ K-Z Sportsmen travel trailer (with fiberglass exterior and a slide out) for many years throughout the western US and across country (from Virginia to Utah) and experienced absolutely no sway when towing with our 12 Passenger Ford Econoline Van (V-10 engine).

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Do You Need A Weight Distribution Hitch When Towing A Travel Trailer?

• Last Updated: June 15, 2024
• 13 minutes read

Towing a travel trailer can be a harrowing experience if you don’t use a weight distribution hitch.

There is nothing worse than looking in your rearview mirror to see your trailer bouncing or swaying dangerously behind you. 

Fortunately, slowing down isn’t the only answer to solve trailer sway and bounce. Installing a weight distribution hitch between your vehicle and camper trailer can reduce sway and bounce and, ultimately, provide a much safer towing experience. 

But how do you determine whether or not you need a weight distribution hitch for your trailer? 

If your trailer weight exceeds 50% of your vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), getting a weight distribution hitch is the best way to guarantee safe and effective towing.  

While that is hopefully a pretty clear metric for you to use, there is some additional nuance to this question. Safe towing requires properly balancing the weight in your trailer, for example. 

Additionally, not all vehicles are compatible with a weight distribution hitch and not all vehicle-trailer combinations will require one. 

Luckily for you, we will address everything you need to know about weight distribution hitches for trailers in this guide. So let’s get to it!  

IN THIS ARTICLE

What Is A Weight Distribution Hitch?

.ugb-cee8c07 .ugb-blockquote__item{border-radius:0px !important}.ugb-cee8c07 .ugb-blockquote__quote{width:20px !important;height:20px !important}.ugb-cee8c07 .ugb-blockquote__text{font-size:20px !important}@media screen and (min-width:768px){.ugb-cee8c07 > .ugb-inner-block > .ugb-block-content > *{padding-top:35px !important;padding-bottom:35px !important;padding-right:35px !important;padding-left:35px !important}} A weight distribution hitch is a replacement for a traditional hitch, not a supplement. This type of hitch connects your towing vehicle to your trailer using a hitch coupler, but it includes additional arms that serve to provide more stable towing.  

These arms begin from the vehicle side of the hitch and extend out to connect to the trailer at a minimum of two connection points.

When viewed from above, the arms on a weight distribution hitch extend out and connect to your trailer to create a triangular shape. 

How Do Weight Distribution Hitches Work?

A weight distribution hitch distributes the weight of your trailer more evenly over both axles of your tow vehicle.

Adjustable springs bars connect from your hitch to your trailer and transfer the tongue weight of your trailer through the towbar and frame of your vehicle. 

But how does it accomplish this?

At the connection points, an upward force is applied to distribute a portion of your trailer’s weight towards the front of your towing vehicle instead of all the weight resting on the rear axle (like would be the case with a traditional hitch). 

This serves to level out your vehicle and alleviate weight imbalances that cause your trailer to sway or bounce dangerously at higher towing speeds.

They also take some of the stress off the rear axle of your vehicle and help you maintain better control while towing. 

How Do I Know If My Vehicle and Trailer Are Balanced Properly?

When your vehicle and trailer are balanced properly, the front of your vehicle and back of your trailer should appear to be at roughly the same height from the ground (when viewing them from a side profile). 

If the back of your vehicle is noticeably sagging, it will pull the nose of your trailer down and take some of the loaded weight off of your trailer’s rear axle.

This is a sign of an imbalanced towing situation and is exactly what a weight distribution hitch is designed to remedy. 

What Are The Benefits of a Weight Distribution Hitch?

Well, we have already discussed the clear benefit of more even weight distribution. Here are a few additional benefits of this kind of hitch: 

• Minimizing trailer sway that, in its most extreme cases, causes total loss of vehicle control
• Safer turning by minimizing the tilted angle between your vehicle and trailer
• More effective braking by improving the balance of your vehicle 
• A better view of the road by bringing the nose of your towing vehicle down
• Evening out your rig to minimize trailer bounce
• More overall control of your towing experience

Are There Any Downsides of a Weight Distribution Hitch?

Yes, there actually are. These hitches can place a significant amount of weight and torque on the towbar and frame of your vehicle.

This is why some manufacturers recommend that you hop out of your vehicle and release the spring bars before you need to make any tight turns. 

In theory, this doesn’t sound like a big deal. But think about how often you go from driving straight on a highway for hundreds of miles to navigating into an unreasonably tight truck stop with hundreds of other vehicles. 

Was there even a place where you could have pulled over to release your spring bars before you pulled in?

Many users neglect to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on this front. Some even get away with it for years without issue.

But it puts serious stress on your towbar and actually increases the risk of catastrophic structural damage to the vehicle’s entire frame. 

So, if you truly used this kind of hitch properly, the major downside would be stopping all the time to disconnect your spring bars and then stopping again to connect and re-tension them later. 

How To Know If You Need a Weight Distribution Hitch For Your Trailer 

The simplest way to know you need a weight distribution hitch is that white-knuckle feeling every time you tow.

If you don’t feel like you have control when stopping and steering, the odds are good that this type of hitch will help. 

Another common sign of an imbalance between a vehicle and a trailer can be seen in where your headlights are pointing.

When you are towing at night and have trouble seeing the road because your lights are pointing up at the stars, you need a weight distribution hitch.

If you have a more mathematical approach, you should consider a weight distribution hitch if your trailer weighs more than half of your towing vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).

That simple metric should be a guiding principle. But you may find yourself really close to that metric (maybe you’re at 45% or 48%) and unsure if you need a weight distribution hitch. 

The Scientific/Mathematical Approach

Fortunately, there are some other measurements that will help you make this determination. Here are the measurements you will need: 

• The heights of the front and rear bumpers of your towing vehicle (before your trailer is connected)
• The heights of the front and rear of your trailer when it is resting in a completely level position (this can be tricky because roads and driveways are seldom perfectly level, but your measurements should be even at the front and back before proceeding)
• Measure the distance from the top of the wheel well to the center of the tire on your vehicle’s rear wheels

After you complete all of these measurements, go ahead and hook up your trailer. Then, go around and take all of the measurements again. 

Once you have all of these new measurements down, you will need to do some comparison.

There are many ways to do it, but the simplest method is to compare the wheel well measurements.

If you get a discrepancy of more than 20 millimeters, you should consider adding a weight distribution hitch to your setup. 

Going By What You Feel

If you don’t want to get mathematical about it, here are a few other factors to consider: 

You Regularly Experience Trailer Sway or Bounce

If you always feel your trailer moving around back there, it is a good sign that this type of hitch may be helpful.

A weight distribution hitch can help to calm down trailers that love to sway side-to-side or bounce up-and-down. 

You Can Visually See That Your Trailer and Vehicle Are Imbalanced

If you can’t quite do the perfect math but you can visually tell that the back of your trailer and front of your vehicle are pointing up, it is an obvious sign that you need a weight distribution hitch to level things out. 

You Are Forced to Go Very Slow While Towing

If you always have to keep your towing speed below 50 or 55 miles per hour to keep your trailer from swaying or bouncing uncontrollably, you need a weight distribution hitch!

Towing Always Feels Like a Dangerous, “White-Knuckle” Experience

If you are checking your rearview and side-view mirrors so frequently that your hands are sweating and you can barely keep your eyes on the actual road in front of you, this is not how towing has to be! And one of these hitches can be your key to a less stressful towing experience. 

Can I Get Away Without A Weight Distribution Hitch?

Certainly! But it will require a well-balanced trailer load. It is also more common for owners of lighter trailers with relatively minimal tongue weights to avoid needing a weight distribution hitch.  

However, if you have a heavier rig, we do recommend this type of hitch.

While you technically can get away without one, you will have much less control of your rig and you will often be forced to go much slower to maintain control. 

This can make your longer trips maddeningly slow and also significantly decrease your fuel economy while towing. 

Can A Weight Distribution Hitch Increase My Towing Capacity?

A weight distribution hitch will not increase your vehicle’s towing capacity, but it will allow your hitch to function to its manufactured ability.

This type of hitch is simply designed to create a more balanced towing experience and maximize the efficacy of your hitch.  

It can, however, have unintended positive consequences, such as increasing fuel economy and reducing strain on the rear axle of your towing vehicle.

However, a failure to adhere to the stated towing capacities of your vehicle and towing equipment can cause equipment damage or failure that ultimately puts human lives in danger. 

Please also keep in mind that your towing system is only as strong as its lowest-rated component.

If, for example, you purchase multiple towing accessories separately instead of purchasing a full weight distribution hitch system that comes with all of the required components, you will need to ensure compatibility for all components. 

Not all hitch couplers will be compatible with the weight distribution systems that only include adjustable spring bars and attachment brackets.

Only Class III, IV, and V hitches can be used with weight distribution systems, for example.

This is why you are usually better off buying a complete system instead of trying to piece one together to save a few bucks. 

What Does A Weight Distribution Hitch Cost?

A weight distribution hitch can cost anywhere from roughly $200 at the low end to more than $400 for a higher-end model.

Ultimately, it depends on the quality of construction and how much weight you are towing.

A weight distribution hitch that is designed for towing heavier loads will cost more than a model designed for smaller trailers.  

How To Select A Weight Distribution Hitch

To choose the right hitch for your situation , you will first need to note the tongue weight of your trailer and then weigh the loaded weights of both your trailer and towing vehicle.

You may need to find a local vehicle scale in order to accomplish the latter. 

Once you have all of those weights at your disposal, you can begin to narrow down your choices to a hitch that can handle those loads.

On top of that, you will need to ensure compatibility with both your trailer and your vehicle. 

Most of these hitches include a tongue and ball that insert into your vehicle’s hitch receiver, two spring bar arms, A-frame clamps to attach to the arms of your trailer, retaining pins, and some sort of levering tool. 

To be clear, these hitches are not designed for use on 5th wheel trailers. They are specifically designed for more traditional travel trailers and smaller towable campers.

Can I Use My Weight Distribution Hitch On Any Vehicle?

Unfortunately, the answer is no. And this adds another level of complexity to your decision-making process. 

Certain vehicle manufacturers will specifically warn against using this type of hitch with all of their vehicles.

Others will list a handful of vehicle models that cannot support the amount of torque and stress that a weight distribution hitch would place on the towbar and frame. 

Kia, for example, strongly warns against using this type of hitch with any vehicle model that is equipped with a factory-installed Kia accessory towbar. 

Jeep, on the other hand, adamantly supports the use of a weight distribution hitch for towing any trailers in excess of 4850 pounds (2200 kilograms).

This is true even if your Jeep is outfitted with a Quadra-lift air suspension system. 

Land Rover is another example of a company that warns against the use of these hitches.

They don’t necessarily have a problem with them being used with all of their vehicles, but caution against them for any of their models that are equipped with air suspension due to concerns over how it will impact the vehicle’s auto-leveling capabilities. 

As you can tell, it is a good rule of thumb to consult with your vehicle’s manufacturer to learn about any concerns before you install a weight distribution hitch.

In some cases, their concerns may not even be related to your safety. Instead, they can have more to do with insurance and liability. 

So be aware of whether installing one of these hitches will impact your vehicle warranty and also how it will affect your insurance coverage.

At the end of the day, I hope you have realized that not all travel trailer owners need to worry about searching for a weight-distribution hitch.

For those that do meet the criteria we have discussed above, however, finding the right hitch that fits your vehicle and trailer is your next step. 

If you are ready to take that step, we suggest checking out our review of the eight best weight distribution hitches to prevent swaying and bouncing .

That article also includes a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose a compatible design. 

For all trailer owners out there, we want to conclude by wishing you happy towing.

We hope you enjoy all of your RVing and camping adventures over the next several months!

About Author / Aaron Richardson

Aaron Richardson is an expert RVer and the co-founder of RVing Know How. Aaron, along with his wife Evelyn, has been living and traveling in their Keystone Fuzion RV since 2017. Their adventures span across the country and beyond, including memorable RVing experiences in Mexico. Aaron's passion for the outdoors and RVing shines through in his writings, where he shares a blend of travel stories, practical tips, and insights to enhance the RV lifestyle.

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Fastway e2® Weight Distribution Hitch

For the best and safest towing experience, you need the e2® hitch, providing you with faster and easier weight distribution and sway control.

The e2® hitch gives you faster and easier sway control and weight distribution without the hassle of chains or add-on sway bars. With its built-in sway control, the e2 hitch has no backing, turning, or weather restrictions - when you need sway control the most. Its rigid brackets give you permanent sway control for smarter, safer towing.

• Starting At $ 555.0
• Preorder Now

CONFIRM PREORDER

The Fastway e2® weight distribution hitch offers faster and easier sway control and weight distribution. With built-in, permanent sway control, you can hitch up, tow, and unhitch with ease. There is nothing extra to connect or store, and nothing to remove when backing or making a tight turn.

The e2's rigid brackets provide two points of steel-on-steel friction, constantly working to fight sway. Its unique design provides a level ride while minimizing sway caused by winds, semi trailers and sudden maneuvers. The e2 hitch comes in round-bar and trunnion styles. Both offer fast and easy sway control and weight distribution. The e2's smart design can be installed around gas tanks and battery boxes, works with surge brakes, and can accommodate any trailer type.

Helpful Resources for the Fastway e2® Weight Distribution Hitch

How to install the e2® Hitch

e2® Round Bar Hitch Owners Manual

e2® Trunnion Bar Owners Manual

e2® Hitch Replacement Parts

Specifications

The Fastway® e2™ Weight Distribution Hitch comes in round bar and trunnion styles. Both offer fast and easy built-in sway control and weight distribution. If ground clearance is a consideration in your setup, one of the e2 trunnion hitches will work great for you. Below are the hitches we offer in both the round bar and trunnion styles:

*Includes 2 5/16″ hitch ball installed

Trunnion Style Hitches

Round bar style hitches, customer reviews.

Bought your 10,000 lb weight distribution hitch for our 35' long, 6,800 lb travel trailer. Towed it about 30 miles on 4/13/18 from storage to our house in winds gusting up to 50 mph. It performed perfectly. The next day was a 2.5 hour pull to our campground NE of Columbus, Ohio. I couldn't not believe how effortless the pull was. At times I was literally able to have one hand on the steering wheel if needed. Thanks for this great product!

• Written By: Don R.
• Apr. 16, 2018

Installed the e2 6,000 lb trunnion hitch for an 18 ft travel trailer. Pulling it with a 2015 Tacoma V6. Works great! Got the setup right on the first try. Instructions were very good. Happy with the product.

• Written By: Dave L.
• Feb. 27, 2018

Absolutely love the product. Towed my 25 ft toy hauler across the country and all over the south with it. No problems and it makes a great towing experience!

• Written By: Cindy
• Sep. 06, 2017

Our friends recommended that we get the e2 trunnion hitch for our 26 ft Jayco mated to our F150. Everything has been great. It is easy to hook up and disconnect, and when pulling, the trailer is stable and we have no swaying of any kind.

• Written By: Perry and Kathy
• Apr. 03, 2018

Love my weight distribution hitch. Does everything I expect of it. Easy on and easy off. No chains to remove when backing up.

• Written By: Jack H.
• Oct. 12, 2017

I've been getting peace of mind and safety using my Fastway e2 hitch for a few years. Now I've had to use their Customer Service. I got fast, intelligent answers, good news, and quick service. Got to be one of the best customer service departments I've ever dealt with. Thank you, Fastway.

• Written By: Carol B.
• Dec. 10, 2016

No more chains and sway bars. Love it. Easy on and off. Good quality too. Install was easy. Awesome product.

• Written By: Kris Y.
• Apr. 07, 2018

Since we got our trailer over 1.5 years ago, we used e2 weight distribution system and I'm so satisfied and happy about it. Fastway is the Rightway!

• Written By: Obeng O.
• Aug. 18, 2017

Can't tell you how much I trust your hitch. Even the 8,000 lb hitch has the truck and trailer level. If I ever get a heavier rig, I will most certainly buy another hitch from you guys. Again, thank you.

• Written By: Chris G.
• Apr. 13, 2017

Hello, just wanted to say I love my trunnion e2 hitch. First time towing a travel trailer, and the hitch has helped boost my confidence.

• Written By: Eric B.
• Jun. 08, 2017

We have been using your weight distribution hitch for our 31 ft. Komfort trailer for 10 years now... Never a worry or an issue this entire time. We feel very safe in our 37 states we have visited so far.

• Written By: Roger S.
• Jan. 30, 2018

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• 🏕️ Best Weight Distribution Hitch

The Best Weight Distribution Hitches For 2024

(Camp Addict does NOT accept payment from any company to review or endorse their products.)

By Marshall Wendler

Best Overall

Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch

Best Traditional

Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Hitch

Best Budget

Fastway e2 Weight Distribution Hitch

Hey, you just found the ultimate guide to understanding weight distribution hitches.

We will show you what is the best weight distribution hitch, in our opinion (and why).

Then you will learn what a load distribution hitch is, how they work, and why you likely need one for your trailer - everything you need to know about these products.

Undoubtedly, load-leveling trailer hitches are typically not well understood by consumers.

The one thing to understand is that a correctly set up weight distributing system will ensure your tow vehicle and trailer work together to ensure safe towing while minimizing the stress and strain on your vehicles.

The best load leveling hitches help the vehicle used to tow your camper maintain proper steering and brake control by transferring part of the trailer's weight to the front axle of your tow vehicle and back to the trailer's axle(s).

All of our recommendations are anti-sway weight distribution hitches, which help prevent what is shown in this video:

Let's learn about RV tow hitches and what to look for when purchasing one.

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Do I Need A Weight Distribution Hitch?

Great question. Short answer: Almost certainly.

But let's find out for sure if you need a weight distribution hitch (WDH):

• As a general rule, if your trailer weighs 50% or more than your tow vehicle weighs, you need one. However, there are other factors to consider. In truth, most travel trailer/tow vehicle combinations should use one.
• A weight distribution hitch prevents lane wandering caused by the trailer moving the rear of the tow vehicle. It will also help control dangerous trailer sway caused by high winds, passing large vehicles, or even steep downhill grades.
• You need a weight distribution hitch if your tow vehicle's rear sags. You lose some steering and braking control with a nose-high attitude (weight being lifted off the front axle).
• Your tow vehicle manufacturer may require a weight distribution hitch for certain trailer weights. For example, Toyota, RAM, and Ford require one for trailers over 5,000 pounds. Check your owner's manual for your vehicle's specific requirements.

Weight Distribution Hitch Reviews

We've narrowed down the field to the best weight distribution hitch with sway control.

All of the below-reviewed load equalizing hitches have sway control built-in. We feel strongly that any trailer that needs a WDH for towing also needs sway control.

Any hitch that didn't include sway control as a design feature was eliminated from our review. And those add-on sway control bars?

Um, yeah,  not exactly the best choice , so we don't even consider any hitch that uses these as their sway control mechanism.

Through personal experience, we feel that the Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch is the most worthy of serious consideration.

As a bonus, it eliminates the hassle of conventional spring arms. (Kelly has used an Andersen and e2 weight distribution hitch kit and overwhelmingly prefers the Andersen.)

Read on to learn more about why we picked the below three as our top-rated weight distribution hitches.

Which Weight Distribution Hitch Is Best?

The best weight distribution hitch for most people is the Andersen hitch. We like this trailer stabilizer hitch style as it is a lot easier to deal with because it doesn't use heavy steel spring bars.

Read on to learn why we feel it is the best sway control weight distribution hitch for most recreational vehicle owners.

Best Weight Distribution Hitch

• Easy to setup & adjust
• Silent and no need to grease
• Ball mount included
• No bars to install or store
• Can use the ball mount alone if you don't need to use it as a weight distribution hitch
• Light - weighs under 60 pounds
• No deal breakers

The Andersen 'No-Sway' Weight Distribution Hitch revolutionizes how a load equalizing hitch works.

They did away with the traditional spring bar style weight distribution bars and replaced them with a much simpler chain mechanism.

This results in a much lighter, silent, and easier-to-use setup that deserves a hard look.

The above 'Pros' highlight some of the reasons why we feel Andersen hitches make the best weight distribution sway control hitch.

Read the complete Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch review .

Best Traditional Style Weight Distribution Hitch

• Unlike other spring bar WDH systems with add-on friction controls, you do not need to disconnect anything while backing up or driving in bad weather
• Trunnion bars provide ground clearance
• 4-point sway control system
• A proven design that's been around a long time
• Can be noisy
• Requires periodic greasing
• Have to store bars when not in use
• Hitch ball is an additional purchase
• Initial setup can be a bit tricky

The Equal-i-zer hitch is a pioneer in weight distribution hitches with sway control.

Progress Manufacturing, the maker of this weight distribution system, has been in business for over 70 years, and they have been making the Equal-i-zer hitch for a long time.

In other words, they have a proven system for spring bar style weight distribution hitches.

If you are looking for a proven system that thousands of trailer owners have used over countless towing miles, the Equal-i-zer WDH is the right choice.

Our top choice, the  Andersen WDH , offers some advantages to this spring bar system but controls sway and distributes loads using different methods.

If you like systems that have been around for decades and are a bit leary of newer technologies, the Equal-i-zer hitch is the way to go.

Read the complete Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Hitch review .

Best Budget Weight Distribution Hitch

• Low-cost option
• Trunnion bar option for greater ground clearance
• Does not need add-on sway controls, unlike a chain-style spring bar WD hitch
• Unlike other spring bar RV stabilizer hitch systems that use add-on friction controls, you do not need to disconnect anything for backing or driving in bad weather
• Only 2 points of friction for anti-sway control

The Fastway e2 weight distribution hitch is manufactured by Progress Manufacturing, which also makes the  Equal-i-zer WDH .

The e2 line of hitches offers similar weight distribution properties as the Equal-i-zer hitches (but not as good anti-sway capability) for less money.

The Fastway e2 RV hitch is a MUCH better option than having a simple ball mount (weight carrying hitch) and is a definite step-up from a less effective spring-bar weight stabilizing hitch that doesn't come with any sway control ability.

Read the complete Fastway e2 Weight Distribution Hitch review .

Hensley And ProPride Hitches

The above-reviewed weight equalizing hitches use friction to control trailer sway.

Friction can only do so much. It helps  control  sway. It doesn't  prevent  sway. (Yes, there is a difference)

If you want to truly prevent trailer sway, you need to pay the big bucks and go with a different kind of anti-sway weight distribution hitch.

Hensley Hitch by Hensley Manufacturing

True Sway Prevention

There is only one type of hitch on the market that claims to truly prevent trailer sway - the Hensley Hitch.

Sounds great? Well, there's a catch: It's  EXPENSIIIIIIVE! 

Worth The Cost?

A Hensley Hitch will set you back anywhere from 5 to 10 times the cost of one of the top weight distribution hitches  reviewed above .

These babies cost in the neighborhood of $2,500+. Yikes!

Are they worth the extra cost? Some think so. Camp Addict Marshall has a Hensley Cub (the lighter weight version for trailers up to 6,000 pounds gross weight).

It's worked great for him for over seven years, but as of late, he has been yearning for something a little easier to hitch up with.

Marshall's Hensley Hitch

Tongue Weight Consideration

Besides the extra cost, a Hensley Hitch is heavier than a traditional anti-sway hitch, which adds weight to the trailer tongue.

Many recreational vehicles cannot afford to have this extra weight at the front of the rig.

Two manufacturers make a Hensley-style weight distributing trailer hitch.  Hensley Manufacturing  and  Pro Pride Incorporated .

Hensley is the original manufacturer, while Pro Pride claims to have an updated version of the Hensley design.

Which is better? That's up to you to decide if you wish to go the Hensley route.

Guide To Weight Distribution Hitches

Weight distribution hitches (also known as a WDH) are made for trailers of all types... horse trailers,  RV camping trailers , boat trailers, etc.

What Is A Weight Distribution Hitch?

A weight distribution hitch distributes the tongue weight of a towed camper from the tow vehicle's rear axle to its front axle and a lesser extent, the trailer's axle(s).

This keeps the vehicle and the trailer level when in a towing configuration. Why is this important?

Because you need to keep the weight on all of the axles of your tow vehicle distributed evenly. Same as if there were no camper attached.

So, if you DON'T use a camper weight distribution hitch, you risk negatively altering the performance of your tow vehicle's steering and braking.

How so? Check out the photos below.

Without Weight Distribution Hitch

With Weight Distribution Hitch

Notice how the first photo shows the tow vehicle squatting down, unloading the front axle of the Jeep?

That's bad.

As you can see, weighing down the back of your tow vehicle will cause the front end to rise. Your steering is controlled from your front end.

Also, the most effective portion of your brakes is in your front end. Therefore, things can go wrong quickly if your vehicle's front end doesn't have its usual contact with the pavement due to being too heavy in the rear.

Your braking distance will be longer, and you may not be able to steer as effectively.

None of these bode well for you on the road with thousands of pounds dragging behind you.

Here's an excellent visual video to further help you understand why a weight distribution hitch is helpful with control and braking.

How Weight Distribution Affects Braking And Handling

How Does A Weight Distribution Hitch Work?

We aren't going to get into the nerdy, technical details of how a weight distribution hitch works. Instead, we will give you a high-level overview of the wizardry behind these hitches.

First, a weight distribution hitch does just that - it distributes weight.

Haha, you feel enlightened now? Not so much? Fine, we'll dig deeper.

When you hook a trailer up to a tow vehicle, the forward weight of the trailer (known as the trailer tongue weight ) rests on the hitch ball attached to the said tow vehicle.

As a result, all of the tongue weight bears down on the rear axle of the tow vehicle, often causing squat.

Weight Distribution Hitches Explained

As explained in the above section, this squat takes the weight off the front end of the tow vehicle.

The result is diminished braking and steering control.

Thus, a weight distribution hitch, through the use of spring bars (or chains in the case of an  Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch ), 'magically' lifts the rear of the vehicle and 'puts back' weight onto the front axle.

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How Is The Weight Distribution Accomplished?

The tongue weight applies downward pressure on the hitch, and the spring arms counteract this force via an upward pressure.

Basic Physics Of A Weight Distribution Hitch

The net result is that with a properly adjusted trailer weight distribution hitch, the front axle will have pretty darn near the same weight on it with the trailer hooked up as it does without a trailer being towed.

As a result, the front axle can do its job (steer and brake) even with a trailer in tow. No squatting, and properly distributed weight, make for a safer towing environment. It greatly reduces your chance of having an accident when towing a trailer.

Another Explanation Of Weight Distributing Hitches

Weight Distribution Hitch Ratings

RV weight distribution hitches have two ratings: tongue weight and maximum trailer weight.

Generally, you can use the trailer's gross weight rating (the maximum weight it can be loaded to) to determine the needed camper hitch weight rating.

• Want to know exactly how much your rig weighs? Learn how to weigh a trailer and see how easy it is!

For example, my travel trailer is rated for a maximum weight ( GVWR ) of 5,700 pounds. So I am using a travel trailer hitch rated for up to 6,000 pounds.

Therefore, you should try to match the load equalizer hitch rating as close to your trailer's weight as possible and not go over by too wide of a margin. DON'T choose a hitch rated for less than what your rig could be loaded to.

The tongue weight rating is based upon a certain percentage of the maximum trailer load allowed, so it should be fine if you choose the proper weight rating for the travel trailer towing hitch.

Can A Weight Distribution Hitch Be Too Big?

Yes, a weight distributing hitch can be too big (rated to handle more weight than you need).

Why not use the largest weight-rated hitch you can get your hands on? Because the heavier the hitch weight rating, the stiffer the setup will be.

A stiff setup is great if you have a heavy trailer, but a super-stiff set up on a light camper is not necessarily a good thing.

Why? Because it can lead to a stiffer ride, which may lead to premature wear of components. Furthermore, it will result in an uncomfortable bouncing ride for the tow vehicle occupants.

Here is something many people don't consider - using a camper towing hitch rated for a considerably heavier trailer than what you have means the steel spring bars will be rated to provide a lot more force than your trailer's frame is designed to handle. This can (and has) caused the frame to collapse/break near the front of the rig. Yikes!

Choose a trailer weight distribution system with a weight capacity equal to, or not much over, the maximum gross weight of your trailer.

With the Andersen hitch , weight rating is based on the hitch ball and receiver hitch size, and one kit (of a specific ball and receiver size combination) fits a wide range of trailer weights.

This makes it MUCH easier to figure out what kit is suitable for you if you go with an Andersen camper tow hitch.

Types Of Weight Distribution Hitches

Weight distribution hitches typically use steel spring bars (arms) to distribute the trailer tongue weight from the rear axle of the tow vehicle to the front axle.

There is an exception- the Andersen RV trailer hitch uses chains for the 'arm.'

Many camper trailer hitch types use vertical metal brackets to connect the arms to the trailer. Others make their 'brackets' out of vertical chains. (Seen in the second photo below)

This guide focuses on travel trailer tow hitches that use vertical brackets because they also offer sway control.

Sway control is certainly important when you are towing an RV requiring a trailer load leveling hitch.

Spring Arms With Chain Lift

Spring Arms:

Weight distribution hitches are available with two styles of spring arms:

Trunnion:  Trunnion arms come straight back from the hitch head, giving them better ground clearance than a round bar setup.

The arms are square in shape, and a trunnion weight distribution hitch will typically cost more than an equivalent round bar hitch.

Example Of A Trunnion Arm Weight Distribution Hitch

Round Bar:  These arms connect underneath the hitch head and curve back until they are parallel to the ground.

The bent style puts them closer to the ground, sometimes causing ground clearance issues in lower trailers.

Example Of A Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch

Indeed, Camp Addict Kelly used to have a round bar weight distribution hitch and struggled with ground clearance issues with her hitch from day one. So, keep this in mind if you have a low-riding rig.

Sway Control: Built-In VS Add-On

A weight distribution hitch can either:

• Come standard with some sort of friction sway control built-in to the design.
• Come without any sway control and requires an optional add-on device if you want to try to control trailer sway.

There's a big difference between these two options. Let's explain.

All the best travel trailer hitches  reviewed above  have sway control as part of their design.

Having an all-in-one system is the best option. Why? Because it won't have the limitations that an add-on sway control device has.

Also, a trailer hitch with sway bars built-in is typically much more effective at controlling trailer sway than using an add-on device.

How Built-In Sway Control Works

A camper hitch with sway bars built-in commonly uses friction between the spring arms and the spring arm mounting brackets (that attach to the trailer frame) to control the sway.

Others incorporate friction points where the spring arms meet the hitch head.

Spring Bar And Bracket Built-In Anti-Sway Capability

The best sway control hitch will utilize multiple friction points (at the hitch head and the spring arm mounts) to reduce the possibility of trailer sway.

The spring arms are under a great deal of tension, forcing them down onto the brackets as they do their job distributing the weight of the trailer tongue to the front axle of the tow vehicle.

Any side-to-side movement of the trailer due to sway causes a great deal of friction between the spring arms and the brackets, which helps limit sway.

Add-On Sway Control

An add-on sway control device is a friction arm added as an afterthought .

It attaches to one side of your weight distribution hitch, between the trailer frame and the hitch head mounted on your tow vehicle.

You can make a friction adjustment by turning a handle. Turn it one way to add friction sway control and the other way to reduce friction.

Add-On Anti-Sway Bar

Add-On Anti-Sway Bar Installation

Add-On Sway Bar Drawbacks

There are several drawbacks to this type of system.

• You must disconnect it to back up or turn your rig tightly.
• Sway bars must be removed in slippery conditions (gravel, rain, ice, snow, sand, etc.). Oh, wait, it's raining? Let me pull over and remove this device.
• The add-on systems just don't work as well.

Progress Manufacturing claims that the built-in anti-sway capabilities of their  Equal-i-zer hitch  are equal to 8 add-on sway bars (you can usually only install up to two, so you can see the difference).

Hitch Accessories

Now that you have the best weight distribution hitch for your RV, it's time to consider a few accessories that may make your life a little easier.

These are optional, but there might be something here that you find helpful.

Hitch Receiver Lock

Your weight distribution tow hitch has a pin that holds the hitch in the receiver.

If you have a non-locking pin, there is nothing to prevent someone from easily stealing your hitch from your tow vehicle.

Many hitch receiver locks on the market provide a locking pin, and below is just one example of this type of pin.

While this will not prevent someone who is VERY determined to have your hitch, it will slow them down and make them work for it.

It's worth the low price of a hitch receiver lock to give yourself more protection.

Hitch Ball Lubrication

Most trailer hitches need to be greased where the hitch ball meets the trailer coupler.

There is movement at this 'joint' whenever the tow vehicle and trailer are turning or whenever there is an uneven road surface.

If you do not use a quality grease at this connection, you will have metal-on-metal contact and subsequent wear.

The two traditional style weight distribution hitches reviewed above require this lubrication.

The  Andersen weight distribution hitch  does not, which is another advantage it has over the others (no greasy hitch ball to collect dirt and get grease on you and your clothes).

Trailer Hitch Stabilizer / Anti-Rattle Device

The shank of your weight distribution most likely doesn't fit nicely and snugly into the receiver of your tow vehicle, which causes slight movement between the two as you tow your recreational vehicle down the road.

Over time, this slight movement will cause wear on both your travel trailer stabilizer hitch shank and your tow vehicle's receiver (wear shown below). It can also cause a rattling sound that can be very annoying.

Hitch Shank Wear

However, you can use a hitch stabilizer (hitch tightener) to eliminate this movement and save this wear on your hitch parts.

Additionally, it eliminates the rattling/ clanking sound that this play makes. Talk about a win-win!

The StowAway Hitch Tightener (below) is for 2-inch receivers. This is what I've successfully used to eliminate hitch noise.

StowAway Hitch Tightener Demonstration

Safety Chain Hanger

Do your safety chains hang low? Sure, they probably occasionally drag on the ground.

If so, the safety chain hanger by GR Innovations (made in the USA) is the perfect solution.

Camp Addict co-founder Kelly considers it one of the  best RV accessories  you can get! For whatever reason, keeping the chains from dragging is very satisfying.

Safety Chain Hanger (For Class 5 Hitch) On Marshall's Hensley Hitch

It's available in two sizes (for either a Class 3 or a Class 5 hitch - the difference being how wide of a hitch the hanger can straddle).

The safety chain hanger is a simple piece of plastic that allows you to lift up the center of a sagging safety chain.

It doesn't interfere with the operation of the safety chains should a disconnect happen.

The hanger would break free if the safety chains got stretched out.

GR Innovations supplied Camp Addict with both sizes of safety chain hangers so that we could try them out.

Camp Addict co-founders Marshall and Kelly have been using them for quite a few years now, and they work very well to keep the chains up off the ground.

Safety Chain Hanger (For Class 3 Hitch)

Safety Chain Hanger (Class 3 Hitch) In Use

For Class 3 Hitches (orange)

For Class 5 Hitches (yellow)

Trailer Coupler Lock

When your camper is not connected to your tow vehicle, it is a potential target for theft.

The entire RV, that is. Think about it. Your rig is sitting somewhere with a nice, inviting coupler waiting for a hitch ball to connect to it.

Anyone can hitch up to your trailer and drive away.

There are many coupler lock solutions on the market, and most can be easily defeated by anyone with a crowbar or a reciprocating saw.

If you are serious about locking your coupler, consider a locking solution like the Coupler Vault Pro .

This lock is almost impossible to break into, and most thieves will give up before they can tow your camper away.

Yes, it's pricey, but your trailer is way more expensive than this 'insurance.'

Coupler Vault Pro In Use

Coupler Vault Pro by MegaHitch Lock

Your Dealer Is Probably Clueless

Many rely on their dealer to help them choose and install a tow stabilizer hitch.

This seems reasonable since they should know what they are doing, right? Ha. (Don't make us laugh.)

This is a big reason why Camp Addict exists.

Because of lack of knowledge on the internet and MAJOR lack of expertise by salesmen at RV dealerships.

Here is Camp Addict Co-Founder Kelly's experience with her 'knowledgeable' dealer and how they screwed up many things with her weight distribution hitch.

Yes, there are SOME very top-notch RV dealers out there who can sell you the right equipment, install it correctly, and show you how to use it.

But many more dealerships employ sales associates AND installers who know very little about what they are doing. RV hitches can be confusing, yes.

You would hope a dealer that is in the business of selling travel trailers would have a clue about weight distribution hitches.

Or at least care enough to learn or have people on staff that have a clue. This wasn't the case with Kelly's dealer.

Kelly's Hitch Purchase Experience

"The dealer I (Kelly) purchased my travel trailer from did the installation of a Fastway e2 stabilizer tow hitch.

I relied on them to tell me what I needed, what weight capacity was required, and to install it. I knew nothing about it, so I let them do the picking for me, and they did.

(I didn't even know they came in different weight capacities). They managed to mess up ALL of it.

Here are some things they screwed up:

• Fastway offers  trailer sway bar hitches with gross trailer weight ratings ranging from 4,500 pounds to 12,000 pounds. Ideally, you would select a hitch rated just above your trailer's maximum weight. Or, more correctly, how much your trailer weighs fully loaded. My trailer weighs (as it is loaded the way I use it) around 4,400 pounds. It weighs 3800 dry. Yet the dealer sold me one of the highest weight rated (and most expensive) hitches at 10,000 pounds. This caused my setup to ride rougher, and it was harder for me to deal with the oversized spring arms.
• The frame brackets that attach the spring arms to my trailer frame were installed upside down. This caused a gap between the bottom of the frame and the lower bracket bolt. There is supposed to be no gap here as a gap causes bowing of the brackets when you tighten the attaching bolts down to the proper torque. Guess what? Because of frequent bottoming out, both of my brackets had a very pronounced bow, rendering them unusable. I replaced them with a new pair from a friend who was ALSO not happy with his e2 and had purchased something else.

Gap Between Trailer Frame and Bottom Bracket Bolt

Spring Bar Bracket Bowing

• The brackets themselves hang too low on my trailer frame. This is a design issue more than an installation issue. Because my RV rides so low, it doesn't allow for sufficient clearance between the bottom of the brackets and the ground with the way the dealer installed the system. My frame brackets constantly hit the asphalt whenever I pull in/out of a driveway/gas station with any minute dip. The brackets continually hitting the ground, combined with the gap between the bolt and frame (as mentioned above), caused the brackets to bow. All because the dealer didn't correctly install my weight distribution hitch for travel trailer use and caused my brackets to ride too low. Awesome! (not)

All the issues mentioned above were eliminated when I installed an  Andersen weight distribution hitch .

It works much better for the ground clearance challenged trailer I have."

Here is a video of Kelly explaining the issues she's had with her Fastway e2 travel trailer anti-sway hitch:

Kelly's Hitch Issues (Thank You, Dealer!)

The e2 Install Fix

Kelly's e2 weight distribution hitch issues caused by the installing dealer doing a hack job have been rectified.

We spent a fair amount of time installing and adjusting it per the manufacturer's instructions after replacing the brackets with undamaged ones.

This resulted in better clearance between the spring bar brackets and the ground and a trailer that rides level (it slightly nosed down before).

Kelly still wasn't in love with the e2 anti-sway trailer hitch, but she was not as annoyed as she was when there were ground clearance issues.

Her beef with it was how much of a pain in the rear it is to attach and detach, and bottoming out caused the L brackets to come off, hence causing the bar to come off the bracket.

The frame brackets also bent, rendering them useless.

Also, the bolts holding the hitch to the shank often loosened, causing the ball to be too low. All these constant problems, All. The. Time.

It is an inherent problem with the style of the hitch, which is why we recommend the  Andersen weight distribution hitch , which Kelly now uses.

Kelly is VERY happy with my Andersen hitch. It took a little getting used to, but now she is SO much happier.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the difference between weight distribution and sway control.

Weight distribution is where a hitch distributes some of the tongue weight applied at the truck's rear to the truck's front axle and to the trailer's axle(s).

In other words, weight distribution creates a level towing configuration and safe weight balancing to ensure tow vehicle control isn't compromised.

Sway control limits or prevents the towed trailer from moving (swaying) left and right due to external forces (such as wind or a large passing truck) or improper cargo loading.

A trailer hitch with sway control will use friction to counter swaying. It cannot overcome severe cargo loading problems or incredibly high winds. Still, it works very well if your RV is loaded correctly and you aren't driving excessively fast or aggressively.

Does A 3000-Pound Trailer Need A Weight Distribution Hitch?

A 3000-pound trailer may need a weight distribution hitch if the tow vehicle requires one for a trailer this size (most full-size trucks require a load leveling hitch for trailers above 5,000 pounds) or if you are experiencing one of the following conditions:

• Your tow vehicle's rear end sags when you hook up your RV.
• You notice the trailer sway when towing.
• Is steering or braking noticeably impacted when towing? (Due to high weight at the rear of your vehicle causing the front axle to unload.
• The weight of your trailer loaded for a typical camping trip exceeds 50 percent of your tow vehicle GVWR (maximum weight).
• You are towing with a short-wheelbase truck or SUV. Short-wheelbase vehicles can be more susceptible to trailer sway.

Can I Tow More With A Weight Distribution Hitch?

No, a weight distribution hitch does not increase towing capacity. You can not magically tow a heavier trailer than what your truck is rated to handle just because you are using a leveling hitch.

Does A Weight Distribution Hitch Reduce Sway?

A weight distribution hitch isn't intended to reduce sway. Instead, it distributes some of the truck's rear axle weight to the front axle and the trailer's axle(s).

However, the best hitches for travel trailers will have a friction sway control component that helps reduce trailer sway.

So while the best RV hitch doesn't have the primary duty of sway reduction, it will have this capability designed into it.

Can You Back Up With A Weight Distribution Hitch?

You can back up with a weight distribution hitch with built-in sway control. There is an issue backing up with a hitch with an add-on sway control bar, which is one of the reasons why we do not recommend this type of setup.

All of the best weight distribution hitches we recommend allow you to back up without having to undo anything.

You are now armed with the knowledge to answer the question, "When do you need a weight distribution hitch?"

We also let you know what is the best hitch for a travel trailer.

You can read the individual reviews to learn how to select the right weight distribution hitch size for your particular RV.

Now you better understand why using the right equipment to tow your camper is essential and the things to consider when choosing the best hitch.

After all, it's an essential piece of equipment to keep yourself and others safe on the road as you tow your home away from home to the next great camping spot.

We hope you have many safe miles of towing ahead of you!

• Like what you learned on this page? Check out what other RVing related information we have here on Camp Addict .

Author: Marshall Wendler

Marshall was a co-founder of CampAddict.com and ran the business until April 2024, when he sold the business to Schwalm Inc. He is a seasoned RV expert who has lived the full-time RV life for years, gaining hands-on experience in his travel trailer from 2014 to 2020 and graduating to that #vanlife lifestyle since. Marshall thrives on the freedom of boondocking and he enjoyed sharing his technical insights with the Camp Addict community. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to RVing, his articles are here to guide you confidently through the exciting world of RVing.

Hi Marshall, I am new to the towing game. We recently purchased a Ford Maverick 2022 (with 4k Tow package). We also own a Wildwood FSX 177bh trailer (22 ft) dry weigh 3100lb (tongue weight 400lbs). Loaded the trailer will be around 3600lbs. Given that the Ford Maverick is only 3700lbs itself can you recommend what a good WD hitch with sway bar combo would be for this setup. I recently had a friend offer me his Husky WD Centre line with sway bar setup, but noticed, after reading the instructions, that it indicated not to be used on trailers < 4000lbs. It seems hard to find the information online for a "minimum" weight spec to finding a good WD hitch with sway bar control item.

Welcome to the world of towing travel trailers! And thanks for checking out Camp Addict.

I pulled up the Husky weight distribution hitch manual and took a look at it. Granted, I just skimmed it, but I don’t see where it says to not be used on trailers under 4,000 pounds. I do see that the minimum ‘size’ they have is for trailers up to 6,000 pounds. Is this the weight rating of the hitch your friend offered, or was it one of the higher weight rating Husky hitches?

I also took a look at the hitches that we review on this page and I don’t see any note of minimum trailer weights. Keep in mind you would want the lowest weight rating hitch that the manufacturers offer. For the Equal-i-zer it would be their 4k hitch and for the Fastway e2 it would be the trunnion bar 4.5k hitch. You could go with an Andersen hitch, but since they have just two weight ratings (10k and 14k) it might be a bit overkill for you. Or not. Up to you!

You can always call the manufacturer you are interested in to see if they have any lower weight restrictions, but I couldn’t find any so I believe if you go with the right weight rating hitch (the lowest one offered) then you should be fine.

Best of luck and I hope you have many years of happy towing experience!

Excellent read all campers need to know. I have the equalizer hitch and how it works and handles with my truck. But have to admit it is heavy. Thanks for some great info again. Happy New Year to all. Enjoy the road but be careful out there.

Yeah, hitches are heavvvvvy! And so dirty. I’m lazy though so I rarely get my gloves on to move mine and I just end up with dirty hands, lol.

Thanks for the kudos and yes, be safe!

Marshall and Kelley,

This was an excellent read, I really appreciate the time you put into this.

We bought a Winnebago Micro Minnie 2100BH this spring. We have an Equal-i-zer WDH right now that works well. However, our current tow vehicle is a little under powered. I’ve been looking at (just went for a test drive today) a land rover discovery. It is more than capable of towing our trailer but there a few things I don’t understand at the moment. LR says “Do not use weight distribution hitches as vehicle damage may occur.” In search the ole’ interwebs the answers range from this is a European thing because of there hitches, to they have trailer stability control by means of air that are design to distribute the weight.

Do you know much about LR towing and have any clarity on this?

They also have something called trailer sway control specified on all the discoverys. So do the newer Jeep Cherokees. Does this mean sway control for the trailer is redundant? Is it overkill to use a WDH with built-in sway control or do most SUVs and Trucks come with trailer sway control and the external sway control is still recommended in addition to it?

Glad you liked this article!

I am not at all familiar with Land Rover (or other European vehicles) and towing. So I looked up the owner’s manual, and sure enough, there is that warning that you mentioned. Um, OK. Not sure how it’s safe/smart to tow a (up to) 8,200 pound trailer with a Land Rover Discovery and not use a weight distribution hitch.

Keep in mind that the tongue weight limits on the LR Discovery is 330 pounds (certified) or 770 pounds (design). No clue what the difference between certified and design is, but if one is to take things literally, then it sounds like the vehicle is ‘certified’ (why who, I don’t have a clue) to only have a 330 pound tongue weight. Which is nothing.

Even if you go up to 770 pounds per the ‘design’, that still isn’t enough to reach the 8,200 pound trailer weight. Considering you want the tongue weight to be between 10 and 15% of the overall trailer weight. Or 820 to 1230 pounds. Way more than the Discovery is designed for. So that 8,200 pound trailer limit isn’t obtainable. Unless I’m missing something.

I’d steer clear of this particular vehicle. Yes, it’s flashy. Yes, it’s nice. And yes it’s a Land Rover, which isn’t exactly going through a time of awesome quality and reliability (Consumer Reports rates the reliability of all LR’s poorly, and the Discovery gets a 1 out of 5).

Regarding sway control on the hitch itself when the tow vehicle has electronic sway control. Unless the owner’s manually specifically states to not use some sort of mechanical sway control (via the weight distribution hitch), I’d opt for it.

Because I used to have the current generation Jeep Grand Cherokee as a tow vehicle (loved that vehicle and it has stellar reliability when you compare it to a Discovery, but still not as good as say a Toyota), I looked up the current owner’s manual. Jeep still recommends a weight distribution hitch with trailers above 5,000 pounds (though you are going to get a lot of rear end squat if you don’t use one on lower weight trailers as well).

Jeep also says the following: “Other equipment, such as trailer sway controls and braking equipment…. may also be required or strongly recommended.” This indicates they are recommending supplemental trailer sway equipment even though the vehicle has electronic trailer sway control.

Keep in mind that all of our recommended hitches have sway control. That’s how strongly we feel about it.

I hope that helps! Best of luck with your search for a new tow vehicle, and thanks for checking out Camp Addict!

Hey Marshall,

Thanks for the reply. Glad you found what I found in that the LR towing information is quite confusing at best. The LR dealer was just about useless other than 1 person who kinda knew a couple things. I think with regard to the 770 to 8200, I think what’s going on is they aren’t clarifying the difference between gas and diesel very well. The gas is 8200/820 according to car and driver and the diesel is 7716/770 for the diesel. I think they are just generalizing the rating to the lowest number in a lot of their literature. Here’s the car and driver spec if you’re interested:

I went down the path of looking at LRs because the car market is really weird right now and I’m having trouble finding a max tow capable Grand Cherokee at a fair price locally, but I can find LRs, but it seems there is a reason for that with their reliability.

Anyways, thanks for the input on sway control, really appreciate it! I hadn’t got to the Jeep Manual last night, but wow what a difference in clarity on towing with the Cherokee. Thanks again!

What are your thoughts on how the weight in the back of the truck loaded up affects things? Ie, we load dirt bikes in the back of our 2019 F150, then pull our trailer loaded. We wouldn’t be maxing out weight tow capabilities, but it seems our current hitch isn’t distributing weight like it should. We sway all over the place. Any thoughts?

Thanks for the comment and for checking out Camp Addict!

Any cargo in the back of the truck (or SUV, or whatever the tow vehicle one might have) will go against the overall maximum weight of the vehicle. And loading up the rear of your F-150 will mean that the front will ride higher. Not a good thing. Especially when you throw in tongue weight from a trailer in the mix (which further loads the rear of the truck).

Keep in mind that the maximum weight of the truck (GVWR) is completely different than how much it can tow (the tow rating). It is very easy and conceivable to overload the truck (exceed GVWR) and still have plenty of tow rating left over.

This is why it’s very important to weigh your tow vehicle and trailer combination at a commercial scale (per the instructions on this page) with everything setup like you normally tow (including stuff in the back of the truck).

The sway could be caused by an overloaded truck (too much weight in the back, causing the front axles to be unloaded), a poor weight distribution hitch that doesn’t handle sway properly (if at all), an improperly loaded trailer that is causing the tongue weight to be too high or too low, etc. (Many of these scenarios are discussed above.)

Weigh your setup at a commercial scale using the steps outlined above to make sure you’ve got everything dialed in correctly. With a properly setup trailer, tow vehicle, and weight distribution hitch (that offers proper sway control), you shouldn’t be experiencing a ton of trailer sway.

Best of luck getting things dialed in!

I strongly believe that your comments re keeping the front axle weights nearly identical when towing vs not, are wrong. I set up my truck and trailer as a “unit”. The front and back of the truck lower by the same amount when the trailer is connected, this was accomplished by adjusting the WDH ball height and torsion bars. The effective tongue weight of the trailer is distributed onto the front suspension as well as the rear suspension. Distribution of the weight is the key – the rear is not carrying the lion’s share of the load, which is what you promote. Handling and braking is very good, plus undue rear tire wear due to loads is minimized. Weighing the truck and trailer has borne out this method. Remember, the term is “Weight Distributing Hitch” – this is truly what I’ve accomplished by careful adjustment. I totally agree, a WDH is required to safely tow a trailer.

Thank you for the comment and for checking out Camp Addict!

As you know, when you connect a bumper pull trailer to a tow vehicle, the trailer’s tongue weight is going to applied to the rear of the vehicle. This causes the tow vehicle’s rear axle to have to deal with all this extra weight. Without any ‘help’, the rear of the tow vehicle will squat down while the front will lift up, unloading the front axle. This unloading of the front axle can compromise braking and steering control, potentially resulting in unsafe vehicle handling characteristics.

It is the job of a weight distribution hitch (WDH) to distribute this tongue weight forward to the front axle, to not only remove weight from the rear axle, but to load back the front axle to ensure safe vehicle handling. In other words, level the stance (eliminate the nose high position) so that the tow vehicle handles like it is designed to.

I think this much we can agree on. It’s how much the front axle is loaded by the WDH that we tend to have differing thoughts.

I am unable to find a weight distribution hitch manufacturer that discusses using a commercial scale to help setup (or check setup) of a WDH. Most will discuss the importance of measuring the front wheel well height with the vehicle towing and not towing to ensure that height is very close to the same without it being lower when towing. It’s not surprising I cannot easily find this ‘use a commercial scale’ information as most people won’t ever do this, and it is just easier to setup the WDH using the measurement method.

(Side note: I added a #3 to the Front Axle Weight box above to talk about front wheel well height.)

It has been my experience that bringing the front wheel well height back to where it started (not towing ‘position’) will result in the front axle being loaded the same as it is when not towing. Makes sense to me – the front wheel well height is representative of the load on the front suspension/axle. More load up front, the more the front suspension is loaded up and the more the front will squat (resulting in a shorter front wheel well measurement). By adjusting the WDH so that the front wheel well height is brought to pretty close to (but not lower than) what the not towing height is, the front suspension is loaded up the same. Using this thought process, essentially what the WDH manufacturers are telling you to do is make the load/weight on the front axle the same (without the WDH increasing the weight) when towing as when not towing.

Looking at the last commercial scale measurements I took on my current tow vehicle and trailer setup, there is 340 pounds being transferred to the front axle via the weight distribution hitch, out of a total 760 pound hitch weight. So that is pretty decent distribution of the load, with the front axle weight being nearly identical in the tow and not tow scenarios.

I’m curious what truck and trailer combo you have where you can get the front and rear squat to be the same. Unless you have a really light trailer, this isn’t going to happen with a tow vehicle that has a softer rear suspension, as there will always be some rear squat, even when you have a properly adjusted WDH. Though, if you have a heavy duty truck (with a nice, stiff rear suspension) and a low enough trailer tongue weight, you may be able to get things dialed in so that the rear squat is minimized.

Also, when you were achieving equal front/rear weight distribution, did you take measurements of your front wheel well heights with the truck towing and not towing? If so, did the height decrease after you setup your WDH to have equal front/rear squat amounts?

Bottom line is that one needs to setup their particular WDH per the manufacturer’s instructions, while ensure no axle limits (or other weight limits) are exceeded. And to make sure the front axle isn’t taking more than its fair share of the distributed weight.

Thanks again for the comment!

Hi Marshall, We tow a Bigfoot 25RQ travel trailer with a Nissan Titan. With my method of equalization, neither the front suspension nor rear suspension is overloaded. The trailer gross weight is 7500 lb, dry weight is approximately 5000 lb. Unloaded trailer tongue weight is >600 lb, I cannot remember what the loaded trailer tongue weight is, but it is in the 12-15% range of the loaded trailer weight. The torsion bars are rated at 1000 lb, which allows for application of sufficient torsion without unduly bending the bars as happened with my previous 600 lb bars. An added benefit of equalization with my method is that my headlights do not blind oncoming traffic. Nor, are they shining low. It surprised me that the adjustment of one torsion bar chain link means the difference between overloading the truck rear axle or distributing the weight between front and rear suspensions, resulting in being legal on the weigh scales. I believe that the truck should be lowered evenly (front and rear) , otherwise the rear suspension is doing more work than it should. Setting the WDH up according to your method would require me to upgrade to a 3/4 ton truck in order to be legal.

That’s a very nice trailer you have! I wouldn’t mind having a Bigfoot.

I recently upgraded my Toyota Sequoia to have better brakes and suspension. I’ve also done some mods to my Lance trailer since the last time I weighed the setup. So while coming back from a quick trip a couple of days ago, I swung by a Cat Scale to see how the weights are.

Tongue weight, rear axle weight, and front axle weight are all within the limits of the vehicle and the hitch. Granted, my trailer is not loaded as heavily as it once was, nor is the Sequoia.

I agree that one chain link makes a difference in the weight distribution. On my Hensley Hitch, one chain link equals 120 pounds of pressure/weight on the front axle. I was able to get the front axle weight to be the same towing as not towing. And I definitely notice that there is a difference in how the Sequoia handles between having the hitch bars at 4 links (the correct setup) versus 3 links from the end.

Because the new suspension (springs) are much beefier than the stock springs they replaced, there is very little squat at the rear of the Sequoia now. As in about 1/4 of an inch only. Before there was considerable squat. The front remains level when the hitch is ‘engaged’. So now with the new suspension, the ride ‘attitude’ is the same whether I’m towing or not. Yes, this does definitely help with the headlights not shining high (though I rarely tow when it’s dark out – not my cup of tea).

Anyhow, all of this to say that I’m very happy with my new suspension (and brakes) on the Sequoia. Should make towing in Colorado this summer a lot more enjoyable (or at least reduce some of the stress).

My Sequoia has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 7300 pounds. With my rig and Sequoia setup as it was a couple of days ago (very little extra stuff in the back of the Sequoia), I only have 180 pounds of cargo capacity left over while towing. That’s with just me in the vehicle. So add one more adult and you are either just under, at, or over (depending on the size of the person) GVWR for the tow vehicle. Yikes! Good thing I only tow with just me.

Rear axle is 360 pounds under max weight, setup as I have it (front axle remaining at same weight towing as it is not towing). So you can see that there is no way I can overload the Sequoia’s rear axle without first going over the GVWR with the way my trailer is currently setup (since I only have 180 pounds ‘left’ before exceeding the Sequoia’s GVWR).

Yes, the Sequoia isn’t the world’s best tow vehicle (it’s a great person mover, but with the independent rear suspension, it has a lower rear axle weight than a true truck). But this just goes to show you that every tow vehicle is going to behave differently, and have a different set of weights to work around. And not everyone uses a truck to tow travel trailers, so not everyone has a higher rear axle weight to ‘play’ with.

My trailer has a GVWR of 5700. Not a huge number, but as you can see, with a current tongue weight of 600 pounds, it is near the limit of what the Sequoia can tow (and not go over the GVWR of the tow vehicle with some cargo in the vehicle). The Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR – or the tow vehicle and the trailer weights combined) isn’t anywhere close to being exceeded. In fact, it has close to two tons to ‘play’ with. No way I’d tow a 9000+ pound trailer with the Sequoia though!

This is now the 3rd tow vehicle I’ve had with the exact same trailer. One vehicle was a 3/4 ton diesel truck, and boy did that tow like a dream. And no, it didn’t come close to overloading the truck. But ugh, the truck was a royal pain as a daily driver. No thanks!

We’ll have to agree to disagree on the front axle weights. Until I see some concrete evidence that it’s OK to put more weight on the front axle when towing (versus the weight when not towing), I’m going to stand by with what is on this page. I’m open to changing my mind if someone can point out something from a hitch manufacturer that says it’s OK to have a lower front wheel well height when hitched up (thus indicating a heavier front axle load versus not towing). But until then, I’ll continue setting up my hitch the way that is explained on this page.

Thanks for the very thoughtful and intelligent comments. It’s always great to have a conversation with someone that understands the importance of setting a hitch up correctly.

I just had the Fastway E2 hitch installed on my new 33 foot East to West Alta camper at the dealer for $ 450 and the drive home, about 100 miles, was flawless. My 2020 Ford F250 with the Godzilla engine handled it well.

Good morning, I have been reading your article on weight distributing hitches. Thanks for the in depth information. One of the more informative articles I have seen. My wife and I have just purchased a 2016 Rockwood 2304DS. Gvwr for trailer is 6600 lbs. I have not purchased a weight distributing hitch yet. Unit has been winterized and dealer is storing for the winter. So I have a lot of time to decide on hitch. Have been looking at a Blue Ox model that is sold by dealer for us to use. I also have been reading your information on the Anderson hitch but am still not sure sure which would be best for us to purchase. Our tow vehicle is a 2019 Ford F150 3.5 l ecoboost,max trailer tow package and payload of 1940lbs. My hesitation with Anderson set up is how it actually works. Physics was never my strong subject. Could you provide some sites that would help with this. Thanks Tom Van Nus

I glad you like the Weight Distribution Hitch page! There is definitely a lot to learn about the subject.

The manufacturer’s page has some videos that may, or may not, answer your question.

Another great source of information on how the hitch works is Andersen themselves. I’ve found them to be very helpful on the phone with questions. You can give them a call at 208-523-6460.

Hope that helps! The Andersen is a great hitch and Kelly loves how easy it is to use.

I’m not a fan of the Anderson design for one simple reason. The force it exerts is not opposite the force it is trying to equalize. A spring bar opposes the force directly, up or down, which is what is going on with the tow vehicle/trailer combo. The Anderson hitch uses a horizontal force, which puts far more stress on the trailer frame, since it pushes or pulls forward and back (horizontal) in order to equalize a force that is moving up and down (vertical). As far as the “difficulty” of spring bars, they are very simple to deal with. Setup is a bit of a chore, but once done, connecting the bars is a simple 5 minute exercise. You connect the tow vehicle to the trailer, then use the trailer jack to raise the system up beyond flat horizontal, connect the bars, and away you go. The only real difference is the weight of the bars which I will admit can be a bit onerous, but in my mind it is superior in design from a physics perspective. I have an e2 round bar hithc. I love it.

Thanks for the info and your writing style! Question… what are your thoughts on the ReCurve R3 and R6… I am a newby and looking into this TWD stuff for the first time.

Glad you like both the information and our writing style! We try and make otherwise boring topics a bit more fun. Though, I must admit, Kelly is MUCH better at this than I am.

So the ReCurve R3 and R6… They sure do look intriguing until you dig a little deeper. Take a look at the instruction/installation manuals and you’ll see that they share some of the ‘gotchas’ as add-on sway control systems have, as we explain above in the Built-In vs Add-On Sway Control section.

The instruction manual for both say the following: “With the ReCurve you also have the option to disengage the sway control function to prevent any unsafe maneuvering situations in adverse weather conditions which may produce slippery road surfaces.” Oh, joy. When the weather turns to crap, let me stop and disengage my sway control. Um, no thanks!

In addition to the ‘gotta disconnect when the roads are slick’ good times, they further say this about how to store the ReCurve: “The ReCurve R3/R6 should also be stored with the preload removed from the (adaptive) sway system. To remove the preload repeat the disengagement steps.”

So you have to disengage the sway control every time you disconnect the trailer from the tow vehicle. Hitching and unhitching is already enough of a pain, having to remember to do another step is just adding to the workload. Especially when the weight distribution hitches reviewed on this page don’t have such a requirement.

For these reasons alone, we don’t recommend the ReCurve line of weight distribution hitches.

Thanks for the information. Very helpful. We’re in the process of purchasing our first travel trailer. NoBo 19.8 and plan to tow with a Toyota 4Runner. The dealer is trying to sell us a Husky Centerline Weight distribution hitch that they say includes a no-sway system. My brother has been towing trailers for years and recommends the EAZ Lift 48058, which definitely has a sway system. Can’t seem to find reviews on either. Do you have any thoughts on either?

Thanks Josh

Congratulations on your first travel trailer. It should bring you many years of great camping memories!

Those two weight distribution hitches that you mention appear to have the ‘add-on’ style anti-sway system as opposed to the built-in style (which are included with the hitches reviewed on this page).

We discuss why you should go with a built-in system versus an add on system in the text above, which you can find here .

Best of luck with your new rig!

Thanks, Marshall. I see what you mean about add-on Sway control for the EAZ Lift. However, I was under the impression that the Huskey Centerline has anti-sway incorporated with the weight distribution hitch and it was not an add on. Every one I see has the trunion bars included. Is that not the same thing? I apologize for my lack of understanding. Josh

Sorry about the delay in responding. Just noticed your reply now.

Ah, yes, you are correct! The Husky website is, how shall I put this delicately, kinda confusing and hard to use. When I first looked I only saw their original weight distribution hitch that requires the add-on sway control.

They do have the Centre Line (or is it Centerline as stated in the manual? Let’s hear it for consistency!) TS product that uses the same friction control system as the Equal-i-zer and Fastway e2 hitches we review here. Along with all the ‘joys’ that come with having to deal with spring bars.

If this is the style of hitch you want to go with, then the Centre Line/Centerline TS appears to be a viable option.

Hi Kelly and Marshall, I just found your website tonight and I’ll say that I really like it. I came across it while trying to find something discussing safety chain length with a Weight distribution hitch. I was replacing the chains on my camper because they are old and worn out but more importantly, they were too short. I have a 2003 Jayco Kiwi 21C (dry weight 3270) that I pull with a Kia Sorento (5,000 lbs towing capacity for my model) with an aftermarket Uhaul hitch (also rated 5,000 lbs). The Jayco Kiwi bolts the chains under the hitch about 4 inches apart (they actually use just one long chain bolted in the middle). So, in the process of figuring out everything, I came across this whitepaper: https://www.linklock.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Trailer-Safety-Chain-White-Paper.pdf that talked all about hitch failures and how your chains should be set. Now, after I got my new chains on, I needed to set length, so I decided to use their calculator ( https://www.linklock.net/application/ ) to determine what my chain length should be. Well, they come up with a length of 13 inches, which doesn’t come close to what I need to attach to my receiver. I got thinking about it and if, for some reason, my TT tongue did manage to life up off of the ball or hitch, there is no way that chains attached to the receiver on the truck could ever catch the tongue and keep it off the ground. That scarred me until I realized that almost all the common failures are much harder to happen while you are using a WDH. How can the TT tongue lift off of the ball when the torsion bars are pulling the TT tongue down (or more accurately pushing the hitch and the back of the truck up)? So, what kind of failures due we expect to happen while we have a WDH in play and how should we set up our chains to try to prevent it from being a catastrophic problem? I hope my question makes sense. I’m looking forward to hearing your response. Thanks, -Brenda

Hey Brenda,

Glad you found, and like, Camp Addict!

Unfortunately I cannot view those links as their security certificate has expired so my browser is having a fit and doesn’t want me to open what is now an unsecure website.

There really isn’t much you can do about WHERE the safety chains attach as it’s pretty much set by the trailer manufacturer and the hitch manufacturer. What you can control is the length of the chain (as you are trying to do) and where the breakaway cable is attached. See this blog post that discusses breakaway cable attach points (and what can happen if the hitch fails).

I have had 3 trailers setup by Andy Thompson at Can Am RV using his recommended Elite WDH and one setup elsewhere using an Anderson WDH. On my Grand Caravan I towed a 22’ Airstream with the Elite WDH and a Livin Lite DBS 14 with the Anderson Setup. The dealer used the Anderson as they were concerned about damaging the hitch A frame with a conventional WDH as it is all aluminum. Although the Anderson was pretty good at sway control, it was not capable of the weight transfer required to tow with a front wheel drive mini van. Andy Thompson and Can Am RV specialize hitch setup and are the only dealer I have ever dealt with that take you out for a test drive after doing the trailer setup. They have done tests and do not recommend the Anderson WDH. Andy has published a series of articles called “Hitch Hints” that I recommend anyone interested in towing read. He is considered very controversial by many for some of his combinations but they have been doing this for over 50 years.

Thanks for the information, Larrry. It’s definitely a case of there is no one right setup for every tow vehicle and trailer combination. And yes, there are as many opinions about what the correct setup is as there are people towing. Best bet is to arm yourself with as much (good, useful) information and knowledge on the topic and then go get some experience yourself.

You towed a 22′ Airstream with a Dodge Grand Caravan minivan??? Even the smallest Airstream currently available (16′ Bambi) has a GVWR that is touching the maximum a Grand Caravan can tow. The current 22′ Airstream is way over the weight limit that a Dodge minivan is rated to tow.

Unless the 22′ Airstream in question was substantially lighter than the current production models, this is/was not a good tow setup. A Dodge Caravan isn’t an ideal tow vehicle for any travel trailer so it’s no surprise that the weight distribution hitch setup took some tweaking to be acceptable.

Thanks to the authors for this really great information on WD hitches. I read through all of it and was ready to shop for an Andersen hitch. But thank you commenter Scott (below) for the notice regarding Mr. Andersen’s ignorant anti-social behavior, which I did a search of to verify. A $1000 fine and an apology after public exposure? Please. If I had found out about this after buying an Andersen hitch, I would have regretted doing so every time I hooked up. It’s the Equalizer for me and I’ll never buy an Andersen product.

I was all set to buy an Anderson hitch, so many pros as you listed, but when I started reading about the owner defacing Corona Arch in Moab, I couldn’t give the guy my money. If he gave the company to his employees or something similar, I’d be all in.

Yes, we totally understand where you are coming from. We were so disappointed when we heard the story.

Still, our job is to educate and help consumers choose the best of ‘X’ in any given category, politics or personal failures aside.

Though the owner acted like an ass, he still has what we believe to be the best products in more than one category.

But we 100% respect your decision not to buy his products. We wish there were more people in the world who had morals like yours.

I bought a 30ft trailer, 7800 lbs loaded, towing with a 2008 Silverado 5.3L V8, ext cab, 6ft box with towing package. What’s your recommendation for weight/sway hitch?

I’d suggest you take a look at our top rated weight distribution hitch, the Andersen Hitch . On that page you will be able to pick the right part number for your particular setup. We explain how to do so.

Your articles are very informative and I love reading them. I bought a 16′ Travel Trailer that I will be pulling with an Expedition. The weight is 2584. Looking at the chart it appears that’s a Class 2. I am still confused as to if I need a weight distribution hitch or not. I would like to definite get sway bars. Am I missing something? Do I need to get a combination weight distribution and sway bars or can I get only sway bars? Thank you for your help.

You might not need a weight distribution hitch. It depends on what your Expedition owner’s manual says as far as what trailer weight do they say you need a weight distribution hitch (WDH).

As we mentioned at the start of this article, many manufacturers say anything above 5,000 pounds needs a WDH. Not sure what Ford says for the Expedition, but your trailer sounds like it’s well under 5,000 pounds.

However, if your Expedition’s rear squats when you tow this light of a trailer, then that’s a sign you need a WDH. So that’s going to be something you will learn as you gain experience towing.

You can buy just an anti-sway device by itself. For example, the Curt 17200 is one that can be used with, or without, a weight distribution hitch. I don’t have any experience with the Curt 17200. It was just the first example that came up when I did a quick Google search. You can talk to Curt directly to learn more about if this is a good solution for you.

But if you end up needing a weight distribution hitch, you can get one with the built-in anti-sway and something like the Curt 17200 won’t be necessary.

Have you tried towing this trailer yet? Just curious if you notice the Expedition squatting or if you notice the trailer wanting to sway.

Hello, great article and very, very informative. What do you know about the Husky Center-Line 32218? It is a WDH with sway control. Thank you, Rick

That hitch is very similar in style and operation to the spring bar hitches that we review. I personally think ALL spring bar weight distribution hitches are a royal PITA since you have to deal with the spring bars both when connecting the rig and when not using the hitch (storage, etc).

It is my opinion, and from use of both styles of hitches, that the Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch is a superior system all the way around.

I’ve been looking for different hitches but I don’t see your thoughts on the Trunnion Style Weight Distribution Kit that uses cam locks and duel cams.

Both the Fastway e2 and the Equal-i-zer have trunnion bar options.

They are just another version of spring bars, which I’m not a huge fan of but some people love. I like the Andersen much better for ease of use and storage (no damn spring bars to deal with).

Have Hensley Swift Arrow hitch. Love no sway, hitching up is a challenge sometimes. Question is how to secure hitch for theft prevention as I cannot find any product that would fit?

I have a Hensley as well and I don’t do anything for theft prevention. If someone is going to drive off with a trailer equipped with a Hensley Hitch, they will need the ‘stinger’ portion that attaches to the tow vehicle and ‘inserts’ into the hitch itself.

Nobody, but a Hensley owner, has one of these. So the likelihood of someone ‘borrowing’ your trailer is really, really low.

If you want some sort of theft prevention device you might consider something that goes around one or more tires. Like a ‘boot’. I don’t have any experience with something like this, so I cannot recommend a product.

What do you think of the blue ox

Blue Ox weight distribution hitch wasn’t chosen as a top pick. 😉

They are pretty pricey and we would much rather have the Andersen WDH for less money and not have to deal with the spring bars.

Thanks for a great article and spreadsheet. I benefitted from both. It took a lot of trial and error but here is the final result of my hookup of a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee to a 2016 Airstream Bambi with a Fastway e2 WDH. How does it look? https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1zHQhs_YUOCf2fjgMsXs0jrH8ZoYOoitjLJpmWp5JRVg/edit?usp=sharing

Hey Andrew,

Thanks for sharing your final calculations. They look fine to me with the exception of the GVWR on the loaded trailer is a bit higher than specs, but the axle weight is well under. The rest of the weight difference is what is being supported by the Jeep’s trailer hitch. Depending on what state you live in (I really should do a blog post about this), the tongue weight either is, or isn’t, part of the overall trailer weight calculation. Or something along those lines. Again, I really should do a blog post on this so it’s ultra-clear in my head. Bottom line is that you are OK as far as the Bambi’s axle rating.

The Jeep weights are fine too. So all is good there. I like how balanced you have the front axle weights comparing Jeep only and with WDH hooked up. Perfect!

I found your calculations to be of particular interest because my previous tow vehicle was a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee. But I had the smaller engine and only had a tow rating of 6,200 pounds. I was really close to the limit with my trailer, and it showed while I towed. Not fun!

Where did you find the GCWR of the Jeep to be 10,300 pounds? I could never find that number. I even contacted Jeep years ago and they were of zero help. Maybe it’s now published somewhere?

If the 10,300 GCWR rating is correct, I was over by 600 pounds. Yikes! No wonder it was no fun towing with my Jeep.

Also, your ‘Jeep only’ front and rear axle weights run about 400 pounds (each) higher than mine. Do you have your Jeep really loaded down? Still within limits. Just an interesting comparison between your weights and mine. Granted yours will be slightly higher because of the engine, but that doesn’t account for all the weight difference.

Thanks for sharing this and happy towing!

Hi Marshall Depends on how you calculate the trailer weight to compare with the trailer GVWR. See my scratchings at the bottom of the original spreadsheet for 3 different ways. For the hooked up case, the 320 lbs might be considered an “equivalent” tongue weight. What say you?

Addressing the GCWR. I also could not find an official number for the Jeep so I used this reference. http://tinyurl.com/y5m7rctv “According to Ford Motor Company, the GCWR is calculated by adding the following weights together: The vehicle’s listed curb weight, allowable payload, driver and passenger weight and trailer weight [source: Ford Motor Company].”

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1XtzdqzYHaqJur9_ftPTEOgX9rDDPkri6dD8QaNN0DVw/edit?usp=sharing

Yes, if you are looking for an equivalent tongue weight when the WDH is hooked up, that number would be 320. Though I’m not sure that number means anything because the traditional tongue weight is with WDH not engaged. That’s the one to use when figuring out percentage of tongue weight, etc. So that would be the one to use if you were in a state that allows you to take tongue weight out of the weight of the trailer for GVWR purposes. I think.

My mind tends to want to explode thinking about this kind of stuff. So if you have a better argument, I’m all ears!

Also a bit confused on the GCWR calculations that Ford uses. What do they mean by ‘trailer weight’? I assume that means the weight of a particular trailer. Which makes sense. You need to add the actual weight of the trailer you are pulling to the actual weight of the two vehicle. These two numbers combined let you know where you stand as far as being over or under GCWR. But GCWR has to be a fixed number determined by the manufacturer. All the trailer weight tells you is if your particular configuration (tow vehicle weight + trailer weight) is above or below GCWR.

I still think one needs to hear straight from the manufacturer what the GCWR is. Without the manufacturer’s information, we the consumer are clueless.

Again, I may be confused on this aspect as well. I’m willing to admit when I’m confused or don’t get something 100%, but I’m pretty confident that the GCWR has to come from the manufacturer. Just knowing the GVWR of the tow vehicle (or simply the weight in your current configuration) and the weight of the trailer does not get you to GCWR.

Good conversation! Thank you for it!

Have a Hensley Arrow hitch. Store hitch bar in trailer compartment. How can I cover/protect open hitch with chains from trailer theft? Hensley rep laughed when I asked.

I assume you are concerned about someone getting the hitch ‘stinger’ from your trailer, put it on their truck, and steal your RV?

I don’t worry about someone stealing my trailer since I have the Hensley installed. They would have to have a ‘stinger’ in order to steal it. And those that have these are few and far between. (Plus they would have to be able to get inside my rig and close the slide, etc, etc, etc.)

You can always keep the Hensley hitch ‘stinger’ stored apart from your rig so that any thief would have to supply their own Hensley stinger in order to drive off with your trailer. And this is highly unlikely.

There is no other way to secure the Hensley Hitch that I’m aware of.

Fabulous article! I’m looking at getting my first travel trailer and this fills in large gaps in my knowledge!

I found one typo on the page: “Bathroom Scale Method” You note that “This means that the scale will only support 1/2 of the tongue weight.” No. The scale supports only 1/3 of the tongue weight. 1/2 the tongue weight happens when the tongue is smack-dab in the middle between the two sides. But the math you present is correct since you state to multiply it by 3.

I have a question about the Hensley and ProPride hitches. It seems like a “stiffer” connection to the towing vehicle would attract higher forces. A gust of wind blows and the lateral force goes into the hitch immediately (no movement of the trailer allowed). In contrast, with a traditional anti-sway mechanism, the trailer “gives” a little bit (like a tree bending in the wind) and the force is absorbed over a short period of time (through the noisy friction devices). Are hitches and hitch receivers built for this greater peak force that the “rigid” hinges cause?

Thanks for pointing out that error! I got thrown off by the 2:1 right before it. And obviously a lack of coffee.

That’s an interesting observation/question. I don’t know, but I’d assume that this is taken into account by the hitch manufacturers, but I’m no structural engineer, but make a damn good armchair one!

The hitch manufacturers would be the ones to ask about this. But I can pipe in and say that I’ve been using my Hensley for over 5 years of full-time RV living. I have the Hensley Cub which is rated for trailers up to 6,000 pounds. Mines 5,700 pounds, so close to the max. My Hensley is ticking right along and it has experienced all sorts of conditions from cross winds to really rough Forest Service Roads. For what that’s worth…

Best of luck with your first ever travel trailer! Buy wisely. Research the heck out of them. Buy a good brand. And most of all, enjoy the great outdoors!

Great article. Years ago I had a Hensley hitch and then I sold my trailer and got out of it for a few years. A few months ago I purchased the ProPride hitch and it really is an improvement over the Hensley hitch I had. That’s not really surprising considering it is the latest iteration from the same inventor, Jim Hensley. It’s so much easier to hitch up it isn’t even funny. There is no sway from passing trucks or wind. The adjustable stinger is a huge improvement as I use some tilt in the hitch head to get more weight transferred.

Glad you liked the page, Bill.

Thanks for the first hand report on the ProPride. It definitely has some nice improvements over the Hensley.

As mentioned on this page, I have a Hensley and have been using it the entire time I’ve had my Lance travel trailer (5+ years now). It’s worked great for me, but I could definitely benefit from of the product improvements found on the ProPride hitch.

The biggest pain point for me with the Hensley hitch is the hookup procedure. Having to line up the ‘stinger’ just right in order for it to go in far enough. It looks like the same problem exists with the ProPride – sort of a nature of the beast issue. But, the fixed yoke does look like stability of the hitch head when not hitched up has been greatly simplified.

Thanks again for the testimonial and Camp On!

The hitch opening on the ProPride is quite a bit larger than I remember the Hensley hitch being. I once spent over an hour hitching up my Hensley and I’ve never spent even 5 minutes getting the ProPride hitched up. You should contact them and get one for a review.

The images on the ProPride website appear that it uses the same basic ‘stinger’ setup as the Hensley, but other better design features that make it easier to hookup. As long as I get the stinger into the hitch quickly, it doesn’t take long to hook up my Hensley. But when I first started using it, I sure had some struggles until I figured out the tricks.

If ProPride wanted to send us a hitch we might consider it for review, but we have a policy with Camp Addict to not reach out for free review items (as so many other do). We either purchase the products we review, or we are contacted first by manufacturers. As I already have a Hensley, we won’t be purchasing a ProPride for review (no trailer to install it on that’s in need of a quality hitch, and it works the same basic way as the Hensley, so really no need to validate its performance).

Glad that your ProPride is working out well for you! I do love how my Hensley performs.

Hensley Arrow solved a real problem for us. The combination of our particular vehicle and trailer was so bad that if wind speed was over 10 mph we didn’t dare go on the road. And on the expressway I had to constantly watch for big trucks and hold on tight and move as far right as possible to avoid sway as they passed me. The Arrow totally solved these problems. Was it expensive – yes but cheaper than buying a different car or trailer. And now I never even look to see if a big rig is coming. It’s really an unbelievable difference – couldn’t be happier.

I love my Hensley and it was something I purchased before I hit the road over 5 years ago. With my then tow vehicle, a Jeep Grand Cherokee, I felt it was a vital piece of equipment in order to be able to tow my 24 foot travel trailer.

Now that I’m using a Ram 2500 heavy duty pickup, I don’t ‘need’ the Hensley, but I still use it and it certainly adds to the safety factor I enjoy.

What is your trailer and tow vehicle combination that you are using in which the Hensley made that kind of a difference?

Would you care to say what was the combination? I might be in that situation

Good article, thank you.

When I first started towing I soon learned there is a lot you need to understand. In my opinion, one of the most important and one of the first things someone should learn about is pay load distribution and weight distribution hitches. If you don’t know about or understand “trailer sway” I would encourage you to become familiar with it as trailer sway can be very dangerous putting you and others in harms way.

I knew nothing about payload distribution or trailer sway when I first started towing my camper (toy hauler). I just wanted to load it up, head to the camp ground and have fun!! A neighbor, who was experienced with towing, saw me loading up my motorcycle and came over to chat. My motorcycle is a full sized touring bike weighing approximately 900 pounds. Due to the design of my camper I have to load most of motorcycle’s weight behind the camper’s axle and off to one side. I had no clue what this would mean when pulling it down the road at 50 plus MPH.

I asked my neighbor if he would take a ride with me and give me some pointers, he said yes so off we went. Breaking, turning, and other basis were going well. He then directed me to the highway. Highway traffic here is 70 plus MPH. I accelerated up the entrance ramp and attempted to merge into traffic; I was going approximately 55 MPH. I soon discovered some drivers did not want me in front of them and would not let me over. You know how that can go in a car, trying to merge over when you realize someone is going faster then anticipated (perhaps accelerating); the next thing you know you have to swerve to avoid being hit and you’re coming to the end of the entrance ramp. Well, experiencing that pulling a camper with an uneven payload adds a whole new dimension to the experience. The experience I’m referring to is “trailer sway”. Oh yeah…now that will make ya’ grab the steering wheel tight and pucker!!

After that experience, I did my research and purchased the Hensley Hitch (Cub). Yes, it was way more money than I wanted to spend. I found it does what they say and for me it eliminated my trailer sway.

Example: I pulled my camper through Hurricane Irma with wind guts well over 50 mph; although I felt the wind pushing me, the camper held steady. It was not a white-knuckle experience.

Another time I had a tire blow out on the camper while I was traveling approximately 60 MPH and I didn’t even know it. It was approximately 20 miles down the road before I realized I had an issue (distance is what the tire store manager estimated I drove based on the condition of what was left of the tire and the condition of the rim).

Hensley is a great system, expensive, but good. Is it worth it? When I add up the cost of the tow vehicle, the camper, the motorcycle, all the other gear the could be destroyed in the event of a trailer sway and subsequent crash, in addition to the risk to me, my family, and others, the potential hospital bills, loss of work, potential law suit…for me, it was worth the money I paid. You have to decide if it’s worth it for you.

Safe travels my fellow campers!!

Glad you like the article, EZ! And thanks for the very thoughtful comment.

I too have the Hensley Cub. It was the only way I was going to tow my 24 foot Lance Travel Trailer with my original tow vehicle, a Jeep Grand Cherokee. Not that I have a Ram 2500 Heavy Duty truck, it’s not as necessary, but I still love having it!

We couldn’t agree more that cargo distribution is a HUGELY IMPORTANT factor! And why figuring out trailer tongue weight is vital – but only when your trailer is loaded as you would normally travel.

It’s really scary to see how some of the trailers being towed down the road are improperly setup. Tow vehicles nose high, unlevel trailers, and even trailer sway. All this stuff makes you wonder why you don’t see more accidents involving improperly setup trailers.

Seems like a lot of people are getting extremely lucky towing RVs that are either oversized for their tow vehicle, overweight in general, and with incorrect trailer hitches (or improperly setup hitches). Scary stuff!

Thanks again for the great comment and Camp On!

My rig is a 26-foot enclosed ProLine trailer (all aluminum) that I use to carry up to four GoldWing-sized motorcycles, towed behind my ’12 F-150 Ecoboost with max towing package (max tow 11,300 lbs). I hadn’t read about using a WDH, but since the trailer weight can vary from 2500 lbs. (empty) to 6500 (with four bikes and some tools) I’ve decided to get a WDH. My thanks to you both for all the information you’ve provided and the comparison of the various types of hitch. That Andersen unit does look nice.

Sounds like you’re a big motorcycle fan! I have an e-bike. Does that count? ????

Great that you found our page, and we really appreciate the great feedback! The Andersen is great. I love it SO much more than my super maddening old e2 hitch, which you probably already read about.

I don’t see how you can go wrong with it if you do get one. And it will keep your whole setup safer on the road.

Thank you for the comment, and let us know how it goes!

When you describe the weighing of the TV and TT to get tongue weight, you do not mention when you keep the WDH on or off. When you measure the TV alone, do you have the WDH removed? This would increase the weight calculation of the tongue weight (The A-B value). If WDH is not installed on TV weigh (B) would be a lower value. Thanks

Leave the shank portion of the hitch attached to your tow vehicle. This will give you the weight of the actual trailer tongue (otherwise you are counting the shank as part of the tongue weight, and for this calculation we can consider it as part of the tow vehicle).

I guess you could make an argument that the shank is part of the trailer in that if you didn’t have the trailer, you wouldn’t need the shank. But this is overthinking (and over complicating IMHO) things.

If we are looking for JUST the amount that the trailer applies to the back of the tow vehicle (in other words, the weight from the part that is connected at the hitch ball), then we have to leave the shank connected to the tow vehicle during the entire process).

Short answer – leave the shank in during both weights. Hope my explanation explains why (at least in my mind) why this is so,

Thanks for the question and Camp On!

Thanks Marshall.

As an engineer, I can’t agree with this logic. No manufacturer I have consulted does either. Tongue weight is a measure of the percentage of total trailer weight that is directed to the tongue of the trailer. Tongue weight should always be kept within the recommended range of 10-15% of the trailer weight. The tow vehicle will also have a max tongue weight allowance (generally considered part of the allowable payload), so you need to add the hitch weight to the tongue weight in order to ensure you stay within the limits. Using a WDH, you always adjust for suspension sag, etc. by leveling the vehicle. You need to measure the free height of your vehicle with nothing in it or on it, including the hitch. Only then can you load it up and adjust the hitch tension to level the vehicle. This will compensate for both the tongue weight and the payload. It’s physics.

Can you please point me to where manufacturers say to start adjusting the WDH with nothing in the tow vehicle? As that is contrary to what the manuals for the WDH’s we discuss on this page say.

This is what the Andersen manual says: “If you are planning on hauling ATVs or other heavy equipment, you should load the trailer and tow vehicle with those items beforehand. Follow proper weight distribution guidelines as laid out in the manufacturer’s recommendations for the tow vehicle and trailer. Make sure to stay within the limitations of each manufacturer’s maximum weight recommendations.”

Both Fastway and E-2 say this (not surprising as they are from the same manufacturer): “Ideally, when installing or adjusting the hitch, the tow vehicle and trailer should be loaded just as they will be while traveling. This includes full propane and fresh water tanks, and any other cargo (passengers & gear) the tow vehicle or trailer will carry, including ATVs for toy haulers. If fully-loaded is not possible, set the hitch up for the trailer as-is, and make adjustments later if needed.”

Great article! How has the Anderson WD hitch worked out so far? How many trips have you guys used it on, what loads/setups, etc? I haven’t been able to get the company to answer me on whether it will distribute a 900 lbs tongue weight effectively to a Ford Raptor.

Thanks, Mathew! Kelly has been using the Andersen WDH since last August and likes it a heck of a lot more than her previous setup. Her trailer is in the 4,000 pound range with a tongue weight in the 400’s.

She actually tows with a 2014 Ford Raptor, so funny you should ask about a 900 pound tongue weight on the same truck. Do you actually have a Raptor already, or you just thinking about getting one? It sounds like you either have, or are planning on getting, a pretty heavy trailer.

I’m sure you’re aware of this already, but the Ford Raptor isn’t made to tow. It has a much reduced tow rating compared to other F-150’s. In fact, it can tow just 6,000 pounds with the SuperCab, or 8,000 pounds with the SuperCrew. Tongue weight limits are going to be around 10% of the tow weight, so 900 pounds is going to exceed the tongue weight limits.

Also, 900 pounds is going to ‘eat up’ all available (or at least most) payload (depending again on the cab the Raptor has).

Our recommendation would be to not use a Raptor to tow a trailer with a 900 pound tongue weight. You need a ‘normal’ F-150 (probably with a max tow package) or even a 3/4 tongue truck (depending on what the weight of the trailer is, how long it is, etc, etc, etc).

You can try contacting Andersen at the following email address (though, they are most likely going to tell you what I just told you):

[email protected]

Best of luck and Camp On!

Wondering what you use for a locking hitch pin .. read a lot of reviews on them and it seems that a lot of them freeze up after time and are hard to get on/off. Assume you want some sort of protective cover and keep the lock lubed ? Chris

The one I’ve used is show in the hitch accessories section of the Camp Addict weight distribution hitch page.

We remove our hitches when we setup camp so the pin is constantly being removed. Therefore it doesn’t have a chance to ‘freeze’ up. But I can totally see how that would happen if you never ‘use’ the locking mechanism. I’d use some sort of spray lube. Or just take it off when you aren’t using it.

Thanks for the question and Camp On, Chris!

I have a 2017 Ford F150 with trailer sway control and use an Equalizer square bar hitch. The problem is this hitch set off several alarms on the truck (advanced track, hill decent, steering assist as a few). I spent 2 days at my Ford dealer accessing the problem and changing a number of parts under warranty before we discovered attaching the sway bars was causing the truck systems to issue fault warnings. Has your organization seen this problem?

Sorry to hear that you experienced this! We haven’t heard of this, and Kelly’s truck doesn’t have these bells and whistles (I use an Hensley hitch, which is an entirely different sort of weight distribution hitch).

Have you reached out to the manufacturer of the Equal-i-zer WDH, Progress Manufacturing, to get their expert opinion?

I have and I’m waiting their reply.

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Weight Distribution Trailer Hitches

Why do you need a weight distributing hitch.

A weight distribution hitch does just what the name says — it evenly distributes the weight of your payload. It works by using adjustable spring bars and tension to distribute the load of the trailer tongue to the trailer and the tow vehicle axles. In most cases, weight distribution hitches allow you to back up without disconnecting from your camper.   Shop our weight-distributing hitches for towing campers and RVs: from SwayPro ™, TrackPro ™, and 2-Point ™

What Does Trailer Tongue Weight Mean?

The tongue weight is the static force the trailer tongue exerts on the hitch ball. For instance, if a 2,000-pound conventional trailer is loaded with 1,000 pounds of cargo, the proper tongue weight of the loaded trailer should be between 300 and 450 pounds or 10-15 percent of the loaded 3,000-pound total. A tongue scale will confirm actual tongue weight.

Weight Distributing Hitches

Select the hitch that is right for you.

Premium Sway Prevention

• Evenly distributes weight over axles of the tow vehicle and trailer
• Noise-free sway prevention never stops working, even in rain or snow
• Caster in the hitch head constantly centers the trailer
• Spring bars augment the suspensions of the tow vehicle & trailer
• Rotating latches with clamp-on brackets for quick and easy setup
• Back up without disconnecting
• Powder coat over e-coat finish
• Steel construction

Specifications:

• Tongue weights available: 350, 550, 750, 1000, 1500 & 2000lbs
• Gross Towing Weight 20K maximum
• 2” receiver, 2-1/2” receiver shank available

Premium Sway Management

• Manages sway caused by bad roads, wind, and weather
• Rigid L-brackets provide additional points of sway-controlling friction
• Tongue weights available: 600, 800, 1000 & 1300lbs
• Gross towing weight: 13K maximum

Best Value Weight Distribution

• Steel-on-steel friction minimizes sway. Round spring bars flex for a controlled ride
• L-Brackets keep spring bars in place. Clamp-on brackets
• Tongue weights available: 600 (2-inch ball), 800, and 1200 lbs (2-5/16” ball).
• Gross towing weight: 12K maximum
• 2” receiver

All Weight Distribuition Products

Bx7420 avail tow bar (2″ receiver).

BX7425 Avail Tow Bar (2.5″ Receiver)

BX4370 Ascent Tow Bar (2″ Receiver)

BX4375 Ascent Tow Bar (2.5″ Receiver)

BX7475 Apollo Tow Bar 2″ Receiver

BX7470 Apollo Tow Bar (2.5″ Receiver)

BX7380 Alpha 2 Tow Bar (2″ Receiver)

BX4330 Acclaim Tow Bar (Ball Coupler)

BX7322 Adventurer Tow Bar (Ball Coupler)

BX7460P Allure Tow Bar (Pintle)

BX7520P Trion 20K Tow Bar (Pintle)

Weight Distribution Hitch FAQs

A weight distribution hitch is a towing system that evenly distributes the tongue weight of a trailer across the tow vehicle’s axles, preventing trailer sway and improving stability and control.

Read the installation instructions for your hitch thoroughly.  Set the hitch ball height of the hitch head per instructions.  Install the frame brackets per the installation instructions.  Attach the hitch head to the tow vehicle’s receiver. Connect spring bars to the hitch head. Attach the trailer to the hitch head and raise the trailer coupler with the tongue jack. Connect spring bars to trailer brackets.  Learn how to install the Trackpro Weight Distribution Hitch , and how to install the SwayPro Weight Distribution Hitch .

No, it doesn’t increase the towing capacity. It improves stability and control while towing within your vehicle’s limits.

A weight distribution hitch works by distributing the weight more evenly to the tow vehicle . It uses spring bars and brackets to spread the trailer’s tongue weight across both the trailer and tow vehicle’s axles, reducing sway and improving balance. Learn more about how a weight distribution hitch works .

No, it doesn’t reduce tongue weight; it redistributes it across the axles for better balance. Learn more on our guide to measuring tongue weight .

When towing anything 5,000 pounds or more, especially a travel trailer, installing a weight distribution hitch can make a massive difference in your towing experience by improving safety and stability. Most of the midsize and half-ton trucks out there will require a weight distribution hitch when towing something that is 5,000 pounds or more. Heavy duty trucks can vary a bit, ranging from 6,000 pounds to 8,500 pounds. Learn more about deciding whether you need a weight distributing hitch or not .

How Much Can You Tow?

If your receiver hitch is rated for use with weight distribution, the weight distribution system will allow you to tow at the maximum capacity of the receiver hitch. Weight distribution doesn’t “increase” your receiver’s capacity so much as it will enable the hitch to be used at its maximum capacity.

Generally, most people who choose to tow something try to keep the total weight at around 80 percent of their vehicle’s maximum towing capacity. This is the best way to make sure you don’t cause damage to your vehicle or increase the potential for accidents or difficulty hauling the trailer.

What Happens if You Tow More Than Capacity?

Max towing capacity should not be taken lightly. Exceeding what your vehicle is designed to tow can strain your engine and transmission, accelerate brake wear, damage your tires, and even warp your chassis. This could trigger catastrophic failure while driving and lead to property damage or severe injury.

Support Your Local Dealer

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Weight Distribution Hitch Setup

8 Easy-to-Follow Steps!

Weight distribution hitch installation involves leveling the trailer, measuring vehicle and trailer height, mounting the hitch head, shank, spring bars and hookup brackets, and adjusting the weight distribution hitch as needed.

In this guide, we will cover step by step how to set up a weight distribution hitch. Each hitch is unique, so make sure you follow the instructions included with your particular model.

Weight Distribution Hitch Installation Video

How to Install and Adjust Your Weight Distribution Hitch

Step 1: measure vehicle and trailer height.

Park your vehicle and trailer on a level surface and use the trailer tongue jack and a level to make sure your trailer is parallel with the ground.

Measure and record the height of your vehicle and trailer. You will need to know the distance from the ground to the top of the trailer coupler and the distances from the ground to the bottom of the rear bumper and front bumper on your tow vehicle. You can also use the distance from the ground to wheel well if you prefer.

Step 2: Attach the WD shank and hitch head

Insert the weight distribution shank into the receiver tube. Be sure that the shank is fully inserted in the receiver tube of your trailer hitch and secure it using a hitch pin & clip.

Position the head assembly on the adjustable shank. The head should be raised into position so that the top of the trailer ball is one to three inches above the coupler height. Use one mounting bolt at the bottom of the assembly to hold it in place, but do not tighten with a nut.

Need more drop or rise? Shop replacement shanks

Step 3: Set weight distribution hitch head angle

Pivoting the head downward, place two washers on the adjustment rod and insert the rod into the lower hole on the head. Some weight distribution hitches may not require this step, having a different adjustment mechanism. Remember to consult the instructions specific to your weight distribution hitch.

Rotate the  head up into the mounting position on the shank. It should be vertical or tilted slightly back. You may need to add or remove washers to achieve the proper angle.

Finally, insert the second bolt into the top hole in the hitch head and fasten both bolts with the provided nuts and washers. Tighten the bolts but only enough to hold the head in place.

Step 4: Install spring bars and couple the trailer

Mount the spring bars on the hitch head. If the spring bar chains have not yet been attached, attach them to the spring bars before mounting the bars to the head.

Raise the trailer coupler, and back the tow vehicle up to couple the trailer to the trailer ball.

Step 5: Raise the trailer jack

With the coupler latched onto the trailer ball, lift up the coupling point using the trailer jack. The coupler should be raised about three inches above the level position.

Step 6: Engage the hookup brackets

Position the spring bar hookup brackets on the trailer frame using the spring bar chains as a guide. Mount the brackets onto the trailer frame using the provided bolts.

Then, attach the spring bar chains to the brackets. Make sure both sides are spaced the same vertically, with number of chain links between the spring bars and the hookup brackets. Then pry the brackets into the locked position using the provided lift handle.

Note: There must be a minimum of five chain links between the bracket and the spring bar.

Step 7: How to adjust weight distribution hitch

Retract the trailer jack so that the full weight of the trailer is resting on the hitch. Then, re-measure the distances between the ground and the front and rear bumpers. Each distance should be within 1/2" of the original measurement. If the distances have changed too drastically, you can adjust the number of links on the spring bar chains to increase or decrease tension. You can also adjust the tilt of the head unit.

Step 8: Fully tighten the bolts

Uncouple the trailer and torque all hardware to the values specified in the instructions.

Weight distribution setup differs across various models. With your weight distribution hitch, always follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer, and remember to take your time.

Weight distribution and sway control in one product!

The TruTrack™ weight distribution hitch features an innovative design that levels the vehicle-trailer combination, while actively keeping the trailer from swaying.

No need for a separate sway control unit!

The Savvy Campers

What is the Best Weight Distribution Hitch? 2023 Guide

We had heard of weight distribution hitches way before we decided to purchase our RV. We came across them when researching travel trailers, as well as used one the first time when we rented a travel trailer. On the trailer we rented, there was a bar type hitch installed. It worked great, but the squeal whenever we turned and lack of being able to take it off or put it on at an angle was hard and even impossible for us.  We later found out that all you have to do is hitch up, then pull the trailer straight then put the weight distribution bars on. Or vise versa, take the weight distribution bars off before you pull into your site. Just a little tip that would have saved us a lot of headache.

This experience gave us just a bad enough taste in our mouth to never want a bar style. After reading many reviews and doing the research ourselves, this may have been a cheaper brand, or not lubricated properly, but I do not recall the actual brand which was installed. If you are questioning if your travel trailer needs to be level while towing, our post about leveling your travel trailer while towing explains all of the answers you would ever need to know.

We have found many brands of the bar style hitch to have glowing reviews and happy users throughout the country, we just had a bad experience with an unremembered brand.

Our favorite hitch we found through our research and purchased and constantly use on our travel trailer, is the Andersen Weight Distribution No Sway Hitch . We like it because it is lighter, has the ability to adjust with a simple socket wrench while attached to the trailer, as well as the ability to hook and unhook at any angle. Just because we like this chain style, doesn’t mean the bar styles are inferior. The bar style hitches have been around for decades and provide great user experience as well as work just as well.

Many travel trailer users will find that they need a weight distribution hitch for their tow vehicle. They may determine this before they even own a travel trailer, or may determine this from a white knuckle driving experience. We never leave home without using our weight distribution hitch. Even if your trailer does not give you extensive squatting on your truck, a weight distribution hitch with sway control will give you the added security of reducing sway and increasing vehicle control. We have done our research and found four of the best weight distribution and sway control hitches on the market today based on actual user data.

We have scoured several forums, reviews, YouTube videos, and had first hand experience and have produced the top 4 you should consider when you are purchasing your next weight distribution hitch.There are two types of hitches on our list, Andersen’s No Sway chain style, as well as three other bar style hitches.

Do I need a weight distribution hitch?

To determine if you need a weight distribution hitch, read and answer these questions below with a yes or no .

• Does your trailer weigh over 50% of what your tow vehicle weighs?
• Does the rear of your tow vehicle lower when your trailer is hitched?
• Does your trailer wander, or get erratic when a semi drives by or large truck?
• Does your vehicle manufacturer recommend a weight distribution hitch for higher towing capacity or higher tongue weight?
• Do you worry about horror stories of trailers swaying and causing an accident?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions, you will need a weight distribution hitch. All of the hitches we recommend include sway control. A sway control hitch may just be a bit more money than a non sway control hitch, but this hitch provides with an extra layer of security while towing your trailer and the piece of mind with the safety of your loved ones in your tow vehicle.

What is a weight distribution hitch?

A weight distribution hitch is a hitch which connects your vehicle to your travel trailer. This style of hitch reduces the weight from the tongue of the travel trailer on the rear of the vehicle and transfers it to the front wheels.

Without a weight distribution hitch, the rear of the vehicle may sag lifting the front wheels. With front wheels lifted, you will encounter reduced braking and steering capabilities. A weight distribution hitch solves this problem as well as can provide sway control if you find your trailer sways back and forth when passing a large vehicle or when you are cornering.

What is trailer sway?

Trailer sway is no joke. We have encountered it once in our travels, and luckily our hitch solved the problem before it became a disaster. Trailer sway is a very dangerous thing that can happen when your trailer starts to sway back and forth.

Unless you have sway control and know how to stop sway, this can lead to a very dangerous situation that can cause an accident if your trailer sways into the next lane or even causes your tow vehicle to lose control.

It is recommended to lift your foot off the accelerator and not try to counter steer in case of sway. Sway can be prevented with properly loading your trailer as well as installing a weight distribution hitch that provides anti sway control.

Top 4 Weight Distribution Hitches

Now lets get into the top 4 weight distribution hitches we recommend that include sway control.

Andersen No Sway WD Hitch

The Andersen No Sway hitch is our favorite hitch we have found on the market today and is the one we currently use and are very fond of. We have used one other bar style hitch, but found that we did not like the added weight of the bars as well as springing them up. With the Andersen, you can hitch up or unhitch in any direction as well as use the hitch without weight distribution for short periods. The Andersen hitch is also about half the weight of other styles while providing great sway control.

Weight distribution on the Andersen is provided by the chain mechanism which transfers weight from the rear of the truck to the front tires. This chain mechanism can be instantly adjusted by tightening the bolts at the end of the chain for additional weight distribution. Andersen has also been successful at making this hitch provide no bounce by utilizing poly bushings when going over curbs or speed bumps. Sway control is established by a brake pad like material which holds the ball in place. This ball needs no grease as it moves with the trailer. The heavier the tongue weight, the more sway control you will have.

• Half the weight of others
• Can hook up in any orientation
• Can unhitch in any orientation
• Provides great sway control
• Makes no noise
• Hitch ball included
• Costs a bit more than others

Husky Centerline

The Husky Centerline hitch was our number 2 pick when we researched hitches as it had good reviews as well as available locally at our trailer dealer. It made it to the number 2 position from great reviews and the price point was a bit less than the Andersen at the time.

This is a traditional bar type hitch which will need grease on the hitch bars as well as the ball mount. This hitch provides weight distribution by using the metal bars as springs to transfer weight from the rear of the vehicle to the front wheels. These highly tensioned springs also act as sway bars from the friction they are under that they use to slow the trailer from swaying. This hitch will begin to squeel when making turns due to the high friction. Greasing these connections can help, but will not create a silent hitch.

• Washer style tilt head to provide many adjustments
• Provides weight distribution
• Provides sway control
• Has been in production many years
• Will need hitch ball grease
• Will need tension bar grease
• Will require bars to be stored when not in use
• Can be noisy
• Need to be straight to unhitch

Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Hitch

The Equal-i-zer hitch was another unit which was on our hit list due to the 4 point sway control. Equal-i-zer has been in business for over 70 years, and provides a lifetime warranty on their product.

This hitch is also a bar style hitch which provides 4 points of contact for sway control. The Equal-i-zer design has been around for several decades and is a proven concept. This unit has glowing reviews from several trailer users. This hitch uses spring loaded bars to transfer weight through the hitch to the front of the vehicle. The Equal-i-zer Hitch is easy to install in four steps: Back up trailer, couple hitch ball, raise trailer with the tongue jack, swing the weight distribution bars and lock in place.

• 4 point sway control
• Weight Distribution
• Lifetime Warranty
• Proven Design
• Allows for tight turns
• Hitch Ball must be purchased separately
• Will require lubrication
• Will require tow bars to be stored when not in use

Blue Ox SwayPro

The Blue Ox SwayPro hitch is another bar style hitch. We have a pattern with these hitches on our list. Actually the bar style is a proven style that has worked successfully for decades. The only difference is this hitch uses chains to attach the spring loaded bars to the travel trailer frame. This design helps center your trailer and actually prevent sway from happening.

The Blue Ox evenly distributes weight from the rear of the vehicle to the front of the vehicle helping provide control to the front tires. This unit is made in the USA and requires no pins or clips for using.

• Backup without disconnecting
• Interchangeable Spring Bars
• Limited Lifetime Warranty
• Low noise as does not use friction bars
• 2 Grease zerks installed
• Hitch ball sold separately
• Need to store bars when not in use
• Cost is higher than others

Must Have Hitch Accessories

When purchasing your trailer hitch, you may want some accessories to go with it. We have some great reccomended accessories below, but if you are looking for more, read our post on towing must haves .

You want to lock your hitch to your vehicle so someone doesn’t have a simple way to walk up, remove a pin and walk away with your expensive weight distribution hitch. We have found this simple hitch lock to be one of our favorites.

Weight Distribution Hitch Carrier

A hitch carrier makes it easy to carry your hitch around by providing a handle as well as preventing any grease or debris from getting on your clothes. We prefer this hitch carrier as it is one of the top as reviewed by users as well as makes carrying your hitch much easier.

Trailer Coupler Lock

A coupler lock is good accessory to have to prevent your trailer from getting stolen, we use this model and have had good luck. Not only do we use this lock while our trailer is in storage, but we install it while in our driveway as well as at the campground. We have it on us at all times, so why not install it.

Weight Distribution Hitch Storage

If you do not want to store your hitch in your trailer or have extra storage in your tow vehicle, consider this storage method to be one of the best as it allows the hitch to be stored on the tongue of the vehicle out of the way.

Safety Chain Storage

Keep your chains from hitting the ground while towing by using this nifty holder which will keep them off of the asphalt and out of the mud.

Weight Distribution hitches explained

The tow vehicle as well as your travel trailer (boat trailer, horse trailer, or any other trailer) need to be level with each other to provide equal weight distribution on the tow vehicle and trailer.

A weight distribution hitch applies upwards pressure to the receiver which moves weight to the front vehicle wheels and takes weight off the rear. This gives greater steering response as well as better vehicle weight distribution as not to overload your rear axle or cause erratic vehicle handling. Breaking on your vehicle as well as steering response can suffer if you do not have proper weight distribution on your travel trailer and tow vehicle.

Can I add Sway Control to my Current Hitch?

Sway control can be added to travel trailers with normal hitches or hitches with weight distribution and no sway control. This added sway control will work to prevent sway, but does not help bring back your trailer to center like in some of the hitches above. These are also prone to making lots of noise.

These sway controllers attach to the frame of the trailer and the hitch. There is a knob that is tightened to provide lots of friction that keeps the trailer from swaying. It also holds that friction when your trailer is out of line making it harder to come centered but when you tow forward the unit straightens out.

This style is better than nothing, but it is best to have a hitch designed with sway control in mind to work together with the design of the weight distribution qualities.

How Much can my Vehicle Tow?

To find out how much your vehicle can tow, check out these tow guides over at trailerlife.com . This is the most comprehensive list we have found on tow ratings to date. Always use your trailers gross weight when determining the amount of weight you can tow and you should have 20% extra capacity as well.

When determining the weight of your trailer, always remember to take your dry weight, add the dealer accessories, propane, clothes, food, water, waste, bedding, and anything you have added to the trailer to come up with the weight.

Typically I figure that we add about 500 pounds to our trailer from clothing to chairs to our bbq, etc. A tank of water can weigh 250 pounds for a 30 gallon tank that is full. If you have any weight tanks full, that can add additional weight depending on their usage.

To find out your exact weight, you can fill your trailer and bring it down to the local dump or weigh station, weigh with your vehicle, then unhook it in a parking lot and run back by with your tow vehicle. It will probably be surprising on the actual weight of your trailer from what the dry weight is stated on the sticker on your trailer.

How to Pack your Trailer for best Weight Distribution

You will want to make sure your trailer is always tongue heavy. A trailer that is heavier in the rear will sway and cause an accident. This weight distribution can even lift the tongue and cause less weight to be placed on the vehicle and damage an axle if it is over capacity.

Pack items in your trailer with heavy items towards the front, but make sure to not put too many heavy items in the front as not to increase your tongue weight over the capacity of what your vehicle can handle. To properly figure out your weight distribution, you can visit the scale once again and weigh each axle separately and adjust cargo appropriately.

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9 Best Weight Distribution Hitches – Sway Control for Trailers

Reducing trailer sway, a major cause of road travel trailer accidents, is one of the main reasons to invest in a weight distribution hitch.

Aside from potentially saving your life, they can also reduce wear and tear on your tow vehicle, as well as improving your traction and braking power.

Let’s take a look at how to find the best weight distribution hitch for your trailer, with our buying guide and top weight distribution hitch reviews.

Table of Contents

• 1.1 Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distributing Hitch
• 1.2 Camco Eaz-Lift Elite Weight Distributing Hitch Kit
• 1.3 Andersen Hitches No Sway Weight Distribution Hitch
• 1.4 Husky Center Line TS with Spring Bars
• 1.5 Camco Eaz-Lift ReCurve R6 Weight Distributing Hitch Kit
• 1.6 Reese Steadi-Flex Trunnion Weight-Distributing Hitch Kit with Shank
• 1.7 Husky Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control
• 1.8 Equal-i-zer 4-point Sway Control Hitch
• 1.9 CURT TruTrack Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control
• 2 Compare the Best Weight Distribution Hitches
• 3.2 Weight Capacity
• 3.3 Size of Hitch
• 3.4 Easy to Install
• 3.5 Sway Control
• 3.6 Pre-installed Parts
• 3.7 Durability & Build Quality
• 4.1 Trailer hitch receiver
• 4.2 Weight distribution shank
• 4.3 Weight distribution head assembly
• 4.4 Spring bars
• 4.5 Frame brackets
• 5 How a Weight Distribution Hitch Works
• 6 Sway Control
• 7 Top Weight Distribution Hitches Video
• 8 Frequently Asked Questions about Weight Distribution Hitches
• 9 Final Thoughts

Best Weight Distribution Hitches

Here’s our selection of nine of the very best, top-rated weight distribution hitches for motorhomes.

If you are looking for a new weight distribution hitch, you’re sure to find your ideal model right here.

Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distributing Hitch

Buy from Amazon

Suitable for heavy travel trailers, complete with its 1500lb tongue weight rating, the BXW1500 SwayPro Weight Distributing Hitch includes a standard hitch head and clamp-on latches. Provided your coupler is welded to the top of its frame and you have no equipment or cross members blocking the tongue, this model will work for you.

Easy to use, with no clips or pins, the pre-adjusted hitch head means you won’t have to spend time messing about fine-tuning your tow set up. It’s fast and easy to hookup and disconnect, plus you can even backup without having to undo the chains. The spring steel construction makes for a smoother, noise-free ride, while the spring bars are interchangeable for easy replacement.

This weight distribution hitch is renowned for its excellent sway prevention. The spring bars keep your trailer centered and in-line with your tow vehicle. Employing a caster effect, its bars constantly push inwards. Should you begin to sway one of the sway bars would simply have a greater load which in turn would straighten up your trailer.

Compatible with a wide variety of RV trailers and tow vehicles, the SwayPro hitch also comes with a limited lifetime warranty. It is, however, on the expensive side, costing twice as much as some standard versions.

Camco Eaz-Lift Elite Weight Distributing Hitch Kit

Eaz-Lift hitches come with a pedigree, being the first patented weight distribution system in the US over 50 years ago. Designed to provide a smoother ride thanks to its positive-latching-action interchangeable bars, this redesigned classic comes as a ready-to-install complete kit.

With a maximum tongue weight of 1,200lbs, the Eaz-Lift Elite Weight Distributing Hitch Kit includes round bars, distributing hitch, hitch ball, sway control, and all necessary hardware. For ease of installation, it is fully assembled. The 2-5/16” hitch ball and sway control ball are both pre-installed and torqued to specification, while the chains and U-bolts come fixed to the spring bars.

The hitch is manufactured from engineered steels, precision drilled, and forged bent, while the spring bars are made from high temperature treated chrome molybdenum grade steel. This provides high-temperature and high-corrosion resistance, as well as tensile strength, for greater security and durability.

Thanks to its superior design and manufacturing process, this weight distribution system won’t create noise issues or reduce road clearance. What’s more, you can easily release the sway controls when needed, unlike cam action type models.

This is important when driving in icy or oily conditions where an in-line trailer could cause you to lose control. Importantly, Eaz-Lift sway control does not lose its effectiveness in turns for safe towing wherever you are RVing.

Complete with a five-year manufacturer’s warranty the Camco Eaz-Lift Elite Weight Distributing Hitch Kit is a comprehensive model that will save you time on installation. It is available at a reasonable, affordable price given its superior performance levels.

Andersen Hitches No Sway Weight Distribution Hitch

For an extra-smooth, quiet ride, invest in an Andersen Hitches No Sway Weight Distribution Hitch.

Complete with anti-bounce technology and a self-adjusting sway control system this WD hitch is a popular choice with RVers throughout the country. Lightweight yet heavy-duty, weighing just 60lbs with a maximum 1,400lb tongue weight, it is proudly made in the USA.

No pry bars are needed, making installation quick and easy. The package includes your hitch, plus a 4” drop/rise, 1-5/16” ball, and universal frame brackets (3”,4”, 5”, and 6”) – so there are no extras to buy.

Very simple to use, there is just a one-pin removal from the tow vehicle, as the included ball doubles as a standard ball mount for towing without weight distribution. This also means you’ll have no problems whatsoever backing up with this hitch.

Thanks to its patented True Motion Dampening System, you will notice a drastic reduction in the amount of bounce when towing your motorhome, for a much smoother, quieter ride. The anti-sway control system self-adjusts for one of the best sway control systems around.

Easy to install, hookup and detach, providing superior anti-sway control and effectively reducing bounce, little wonder this weight distribution hitch is one of the most popular models around.

While it’s priced well above the average model, its exceptional performance and ease of use, along with its limited lifetime warranty more than justify its higher price tag. Definitely one to go for if you frequently travel long distances with your RV.

Husky Center Line TS with Spring Bars

The Center Line TS by Husky is an improved and upgraded version of the award-winning Center Line HD. Lighter, more compact, and highly responsive, this system has been elaborated to give you the smoothest ride when towing your travel trailer.

Combining weight distribution and sway control in one unit, installation and adjustments are simplified thanks to the Universal EZ Adjust Frame Brackets, with no drilling required. The Hitch ball is pre-installed and torqued, plus you can use the handle to hook up and remove the bars for ease of use. Its maximum tongue weight is a generous 1,200lbs.

The top plate is made from forged 1035 steel for its high strength levels and outstanding fatigue properties, while the trunnions are engineered from hardened 1045 steel for excellent wear resistance, as well as strength. The tapered spring bars provide a great fit for sway control that really works. The combination of these components gives you an exceptionally smooth ride with more ground clearance and excellent control.

Quiet, lightweight, yet highly durable, this RV weight distribution hitch also comes with a limited lifetime warranty, so you can be sure that you’re getting a product that is going to last.

A great model for frequent use and long drives towing your RV all around the country. While this isn’t the cheapest around, it is still a good price with its single unit construction and excellent anti-sway control.

Camco Eaz-Lift ReCurve R6 Weight Distributing Hitch Kit

If you are looking for a weight distribution hitch with sway control that won’t hamper your driving, then you should definitely check out the ReCurve R6 Weight Distributing Hitch Kit by Camco Eaz-Lift . This highly driver-friendly model complete with premium sway control is an excellent choice for any RV for smoother and easier maneuvering.

With its heavy-duty, rust-resistant design, this unit has a 1,000lb tongue weight capacity. The 2-5/16” hitch ball is included and installation is easy, although you may find the instructions a little vague. The streamlined, all-in-one design enables your trailer and tow vehicle to move as one, as well as giving your setup a sleek look.

The main advantage of this particular weight distribution hitch for your RV is that it enables you to drive normally for easier driving, thanks to its adaptive sway control. With the R6, your sway control engages and disengages as needed depending upon real-time conditions, for exactly the right amount of control.

Sway is kept under control when you’re driving down the freeway, for example, but when you need to make a tight turn it automatically disengages. In dangerous or icy conditions you have the option to disable the sway control completely very easily. What’s more, the top-loaded spring bars also give you better ground clearance than many other weight distribution hitches on the market.

As you’d expect, the R6 Recurve, as a premium product, comes with a higher price tag than your basic weight distribution hitches. However, it still represents good value for money and if you regularly tow your motorhome long distances, we think it is well worth the extra dollars.

Reese Steadi-Flex Trunnion Weight-Distributing Hitch Kit with Shank

If your motorhome has a bottom mount coupler with a 4”-7” frame, then you may want to consider the Steadi-Flex Trunnion Weight-Distributing Hitch Kit by Reese . Its Steadi-Flex system combines weight distribution and sway-control for a smoother, more level ride with greater steering control.

Installation is fairly simple with the hook-up brackets providing increased frame clearance. You can mount them 27”-32” back from the coupler, although you should note that the hitch ball is not included, so you’ll need to pick up one separately with a 1¼” inch diameter if you don’t already have one. However, all assembly hardware and chains are included.

The forged bolt-together, trunnion-style head means you won’t have to mess about with any retention clips, while the powder-coated black finish is highly weather-resistant. The system relies upon an integrated friction sway control with material similar to that used on vehicle brakes. Replacement friction pads are readily available from the manufacturer.

Unlike old-style weight distribution hitches, you don’t have to disconnect this version before reversing your travel trailer, making it much easier to use. When driving, once you have correctly installed and configured it, this WD hitch will make towing your RV trailer much quieter and easier with minimal sway even in strong winds.

This is a fairly expensive model, plus you will need to replace the friction pads over time and possibly get yourself another hitch ball. However, if your motorhome is compatible, then it is a highly reliable choice that will make towing your RV easier than ever before.

Husky Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control

If you are looking for a good value RV weight distribution hitch with built-in sway control, this model by Husky could be perfect for your needs. With a tongue weight capacity of 1,200 lbs this hitch has the option to add two sway control balls for trailers over 24 feet long for extra sway control.

With its classic round bar design, the trailer ball is pre-assembled to the hitch for easier installation. You’ll need a 1¼” shank on your trailer ball for assembly. The bracket pivot and locking pin locations make for a safe and easy hitch hook-up. Once installed, it’s secured with socket and spring clip connectors and is easily removed for storage.

Thanks to its dual friction brake pad system, windy weather and vehicles passing on the freeway won’t cause your travel trailer to sway all over the place. For better braking, reduced wear on your tow vehicle and a safer, more pleasant trip, the Husky Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch is definitely a good model to go for.

Priced a lot lower than some of the top of the range RV weight distribution hitches, this model performs very well without the huge price tag. In short, a simple, but effective choice.

For longer trailers, you will need to order an additional sway bar so you have one for both sides, so this extra cost is worth bearing in mind when deciding which WD hitch you’re going to go for.

Equal-i-zer 4-point Sway Control Hitch

Considered by many as one of the very best RV weight distribution hitches around, this model by Equal-i-zer features an integrated four-point sway control to ensure maximum sway control on the road.

With over 70 years experience in the industry, Equal-i-zer is a name that you can trust. What’s more, this hitch is proudly made in the USA with high-quality American steel.

Installation is easy, with all the necessary hardware and parts included, except for the 2-5/16” hitch ball which you’ll need to supply. This hitch is pretty heavy, but it does have a high 1,400lb tongue capacity, ideal for large travel trailers up to 14,000lbs with a maximum frame height of up to 6”.

The sway control provided by this hitch system is second to none, with the highest levels of resistance to any swaying. Your trailer’s weight is also effectively transferred to all axles, ensuring your tow vehicle is firmly on the road for better braking, performance, and handling.

Thanks to this hitch’s innovative design, you don’t have to stop and disconnect before reversing or making a tight turn as there is nothing extra to remove, unlike traditional RV weight distribution hitches.

For exceptional levels of sway control, it’s hard to find a better model than this one. Plus being made in the USA by a highly reputable brand, you really can’t go wrong. Although it does cost more than standard models, it is by no means the most expensive.

Complete with a lifetime warranty, this highly effective WD hitch is sure to help keep your family safe on the road for many years to come.

CURT TruTrack Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control

The Curt TruTrack Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control features two neutral spring bars making it compatible with almost all A-frame travel trailers. So, if you are having difficulty finding a weight distribution hitch for your motorhome, you may want to check out its specifics.

With a tongue weight rating between 800-1,000lbs, this hitch comes complete with a two-inch shank, trailer ball, head, spring bars, support brackets, and pin and clip, so you’ll have everything you need.

However, note that this product’s shipping packaging is not the most sturdy and some parts may go missing. For this reason, we don’t recommend ordering this particular model if you need to install it on a very tight deadline as you may need a couple of days extra to get spares sent out.

Fortunately, this WD hitch has a relatively simple setup and it’s also easy to adjust with its tilting head and hex nuts, plus its adjustable brackets. Constructed from cast steel pieces with a welded head, for tensile strength, the entire unit is finished with a durable powder coating to ensure maximum corrosion resistance.

Thanks to its spring and cam system, complete with fixed support brackets, this hitch prevents your trailer from swaying at four points for greater efficacy. The powerful trunnion spring bars leverage the trailer tongue weight, redistributing it across all of the tow vehicle and travel trailer’s axles. This not only gives you a smoother, safer ride, but also improves driver control and braking.

For its ease of installation, excellent weight redistribution and sway reduction, plus its compatibility with the majority of A-frame motorhomes, this WD hitch is well worth its fairly high price.

Compare the Best Weight Distribution Hitches

Buyer’s Guide to Buying the Best Weight Distribution Hitch

Trying to find the best weight distribution hitch for your RV can quickly get very confusing.

It’s all too easy to get bogged down with so many different models to consider. So, we put together this buyer’s guide to highlight the essential features and considerations that you need to be aware of before making your purchase.

Your safety on the road, and that of your family and other road users, is paramount. As a weight distribution hitch is essential to preventing accidents, it isn’t really a part of your RV setup that you should be tempted to economize on.

However, that said, nobody wants to pay over the odds and if you only use your trailer for short distances a handful of times a year then you are probably going to be focusing on the lower end of the market.

For long-distance journeys with your travel trailer and frequent use, you are going to get the most value out of a mid to high priced WD hitch that will also allow for more comfortable driving and maneuvering.

If you want some ballpark figures, expect to pay a minimum of between three and four hundred dollars, with mid-range models coming around five-hundred, and top of the range RV weight distribution hatches starting around seven hundred.

Weight Capacity

Before you start out looking at weight distribution hitches, you need to find out how heavy your trailer is.

Take a look inside your owner’s manual, then add on the weights of your contents. Alternatively, you could stop by at your nearest truck stop and use their CAT scales for a fee.

Size of Hitch

Once you have a figure for your GTW (gross trailer weight), you can then calculate your TW (tongue weight). Your tongue weight is the amount of downward force exerted by your trailer on its hitch. It is usually calculated as being 10-15% of your GTW.

If you get a hitch that is rated higher, then you risk having a bumpier ride, one that is too low, risks being ineffective. Say for example, that your trailer’s gross weight is approximately 10,000lbs.

This gives you a TW of 1,000. The best size hitch for your travel trailer would be one that has a rating from 800-1,200lbs, with your actual estimated TW right in the middle.

While you could go for a 1,000lb rated hitch, this gives you enough room for error or if you add extra cargo to your trailer.

Easy to Install

Some people pay a lot to get their weight distribution hitches fitted professionally.

If DIY isn’t your thing, then this may be the better option for you. However, most RV weight distribution hitches are fairly easy to fit, with some models having a relatively simple installation process.

All of the major brands have good online documentation and you’ll find a wealth of how-to videos online. If you are planning on installing your WD hitch yourself, it does no harm to plan ahead and read up on the installation process, as well as closely looking over how the system actually works.

Sway Control

Sway control is generally built-in as standard to any good RV weight distribution hitch. Essential for keeping control of your vehicle when you’re caught in crosswinds or heavy passing traffic, sway control can literally be a life-saver.

There are different systems favored by different manufacturers. We’ll take a closer look at the ins and outs of the different types of travel trailer sway control later in this article.

Pre-installed Parts

Whenever possible, opt for a weight distribution hitch with pre-installed parts. Not only does this make your installation much easier, it also ensures that these elements are correctly fixed to your hitch, and if necessary, pre-configured.

If you take a look at a weight distribution with no pre-installed parts and another that features mainly pre-installed ones, you’ll see there is quite a lot of extra work to do, plus a lot more little pieces that can easily get misplaced or lost in transit.

Durability & Build Quality

A good travel trailer weight distribution hitch should last for many years.

To ensure that you get a good quality product for your money, we recommend buying a reputable brand name with a good warranty. You need to be able to have confidence in your weight distribution hitch manufacturer, as any issues or faults could cause a serious accident.

Aside from manufacturers, you should also take a closer look at what your hitch is made from, as well as the finish. Rain, mud, grit, and sand can all take their toll. Look for a hatch with a good protective finish that will minimize corrosion, improving your hitch’s durability.

What is a Weight Distribution Hitch?

When you attach your trailer to your tow vehicle, your trailer’s weight presses down on the hitch, transferring the load to your tow vehicle’s rear axle.

This causes your vehicle’s front axle to raise slightly, reducing traction, braking performance and control. A weight distribution hitch works like a lever and better distributes the weight across all axles for more control and safer driving.

To better understand your weight distribution hitch, here are the main components of a standard model.

Trailer hitch receiver

The trailer hitch receiver attaches to your tow vehicle. Hitch receivers are available in various sizes and classes, with class III being most common on trucks.

If your tow vehicle does not have the right type of hitch receiver for your weight distribution hitch, you can install one or have one professionally installed.

Weight distribution shank

The shank holds the assembly head and connects directly to your hitch receiver. Shanks are height adjustable and generally included with your weight distribution hitch, but it’s worth double-checking.

Weight distribution head assembly

The weight distribution head assembly is where your trailer and spring bars attach to your hitch. There are a variety of different styles with the head assembly generally accommodating a ball mount and attachment points for your spring bars.

Spring bars

Spring bars provide the leverage that evenly distributes the weight, counteracting the downward force on your trailer and tow vehicle connection.

There are three main types with some minor variations depending on the model and style of your weight distribution hitch.

Round bar springs – best for lighter loads, round bar springs dip under your trailer and clip on. They are simple in design, have few parts and are inexpensive, although they tend to have poor ground clearance.

Trunnion bar springs – a better choice for heavy trailers, trunnion bar springs are the most popular version. They have a straight bar design that allows for better ground clearance, however, they do require some regular maintenance.

Specialty bar springs – generally variations on trunnion style spring bars, specialized weight distribution hitch manufacturers have come up with their own style of specialty spring bars that provide extra support, reduce sway or improve ground clearance.

Frame brackets

Frame brackets are used to attach your spring bars to your trailer. Just like spring bars, they are also available in several different types.

Snap-up brackets – the fastest to adjust and very easy to connect, snap-up brackets connect to your spring bar with a chain which is “snapped” inside of your bracket and locked securely into place.

Bolt-on brackets – just like snap-on brackets, they also use chains, however, as they are bolted on, it’s harder to adjust the chain lengths if necessary.

Sway control brackets – a must for a smoother, more comfortable ride, sway control brackets don’t use chains. They allow for horizontal movement to prevent sway. Most models use pry bars and pins to connect, although there are some variations on installation.

How a Weight Distribution Hitch Works

A weight distribution hitch works by using spring bars and tension to redistribute the weight exerted on your tow vehicle’s back axle.

Thanks to its leverage it spreads the weight from your trailer tongue evenly over your trailer, rear and front tow vehicle’s axles.

When you install a new weight distribution hitch, it makes sense to choose a model with good sway control built-in.

Here are some popular ways designs that will ensure you experience a minimal amount of trailer sway for safer driving and a more comfortable ride.

Friction sway control tools – some weight distribution hitches use friction sway control tools to keep your trailer under control. They work a little like the brakes on a vehicle. Friction between your trailer and tow vehicle applies resistance to your trailer’s motion, causing it to slow down and stabilize.

Dual cam sway control – dual cams suspend your spring bars resulting in straight-line movement that can lock the spring bars into place in crosswinds or whenever your trailer needs stabilizing. The cams are able to lock, adjust, and center depending on the amount of force present.

Four-point sway control – this system utilizes four friction points between your trailer and tow vehicle to ensure that your trailer stabilizes. Tight connections at the head of the system prevent the spring bar from moving freely, creating friction and stopping sway from occurring.

Top Weight Distribution Hitches Video

Frequently Asked Questions about Weight Distribution Hitches

If you’re new to the world of towing, weight distribution hitches may seem like a complex topic. However, understanding the basics of these essential towing devices is crucial for safe and stable RV towing. To help you navigate through the common queries and concerns surrounding weight distribution hitches, we have compiled this FAQ section. Whether you’re curious about how they work, which one is right for your RV, or how to properly maintain them, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive into the frequently asked questions about weight distribution hitches and find the answers you need to make informed decisions for your towing adventures.

What is a weight distribution hitch?

A weight distribution hitch is a device designed to evenly distribute the weight between the towing vehicle and the trailer, improving stability and handling while towing. It helps to ensure that the trailer’s weight is properly distributed over the axles of both the towing vehicle and the trailer.

Why do I need a weight distribution hitch for my RV?

Using a weight distribution hitch is essential for safe and stable towing of your RV. It helps to prevent various issues such as trailer sway, uneven tire wear, poor braking, and excessive strain on the towing vehicle’s suspension. Additionally, some states and provinces have regulations that require the use of weight distribution hitches when towing trailers above a certain weight.

How does a weight distribution hitch work?

A weight distribution hitch works by using spring bars or torsion bars to redistribute the weight from the rear axle of the towing vehicle to the front axle and the trailer’s axles. This helps to level the towing vehicle and bring it back to its proper height, ensuring a more balanced weight distribution and reducing the strain on the rear suspension.

What factors should I consider when choosing a weight distribution hitch?

When selecting a weight distribution hitch for your RV, you should consider factors such as the weight rating of your trailer, the tongue weight of your RV, the towing vehicle’s receiver size, and the type of towing system you prefer (e.g., round bar, trunnion, or sway control). It’s also important to choose a weight distribution hitch that is compatible with your specific towing setup and provides adequate sway control if needed.

How do I determine the correct weight distribution hitch for my RV?

To determine the appropriate weight distribution hitch for your RV, you need to know the total weight of your trailer and the tongue weight (typically 10-15% of the trailer’s total weight). Consider the weight ratings of various hitches available and choose one that can handle your RV’s weight range while accommodating the tongue weight properly.

Can I install a weight distribution hitch myself?

While it’s possible to install a weight distribution hitch yourself, it’s recommended to have it installed by a professional or an experienced RV technician. Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance and safety. A professional will ensure that the hitch is correctly adjusted, and all components are properly aligned and tightened.

Are weight distribution hitches compatible with all types of RVs and towing vehicles?

Weight distribution hitches are generally compatible with various types of RVs and towing vehicles. However, it’s important to ensure that the weight distribution hitch you choose is compatible with your specific setup. Consider factors such as trailer tongue weight, trailer weight rating, and the receiver size on your towing vehicle to ensure compatibility.

Can a weight distribution hitch eliminate trailer sway completely?

While weight distribution hitches can significantly reduce trailer sway, they may not completely eliminate it. However, some weight distribution hitches come with integrated sway control mechanisms or offer separate sway control options that help to minimize sway to a great extent. Proper weight distribution, careful loading of the trailer, and appropriate driving techniques also contribute to reducing trailer sway.

How often should I maintain my weight distribution hitch?

Regular maintenance is essential to keep your weight distribution hitch in good working condition. It’s recommended to inspect the hitch before each trip and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for lubrication, cleaning, and adjustment. If you notice any signs of wear or damage, it’s important to address them promptly or seek professional assistance.

Can I use a weight distribution hitch with a weight distribution system?

Yes, weight distribution hitches are designed to work in conjunction with weight distribution systems. The weight distribution system includes the weight distribution hitch and other components like spring bars, torsion bars, or sway control devices. These systems work together to provide a safe and stable towing experience by redistributing weight and reducing sway.

Final Thoughts

There are a lot of excellent weight distribution hitches on the market.

If you don’t own one already, or are looking to upgrade, you can’t go wrong with any of the models in our top RV weight distribution hitch reviews. Acquiring such an important safety item shouldn’t be delayed, so make sure you check out our recommendations straight away, to get your RV ready in time for your next trip.

For a superior, self-adjusting anti-sway system that is easy to hook-up and detach, take another look at the No-Sway Weight Distribution Hitch by Anderson Hitches . Extra smooth and extra quiet, its patented True Motion Dampening System is one of a kind. It’s also proudly made in the USA.

Worried that a weight distribution hitch will hamper your driving? Check out the Camco Eaz-Lift ReCurve R6 . Combining premium sway control with a driver-friendly setup, this self-adjusting model engages and disengages as necessary so you get maximum sway control when you need it, without any interference when turning.

If you need a value weight distribution hitch, the classic Husky Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control makes a good budget choice, without compromising on safety and performance.

Whatever your travel trailer type and needs, you’re sure to find the best weight distribution hitch for your RV right here in our top selection.

About The Author

Karan Riley

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No-Sway, no-bounce We didn’t just raise the bar, but we eliminated the need for sway bars entirely. The design of the Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch eliminates the sway and bounce in your trailer, using our interconnected motion-dampening chains and sway-control ball housing system. Each WD Hitch Kit includes: an adjustable steel rack, grease-free ball and silent friction cone, anti-sway plate, 2 motion-dampening tension chains and urethane springs, two sets of tongue brackets.

No-Sway, no-bounce

We didn’t just raise the bar, but we eliminated the need for sway bars entirely. The design of the Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch eliminates the sway and bounce in your trailer, using our interconnected motion-dampening chains and sway-control ball housing system. 

Weight Distribution Hitch Features: 

• Rated up to 16,000 lbs GTWR & 1,600 lbs Tongue Weight
• Grease-free system ball turns with trailer
• Easy installation – no leverage bars needed
• Sway-control automatically adjusts to load
• Patented shock absorbers prevent bouncing like traditional weight distribution hitches
• Weighs less than 60 lbs

Find the right hitch

To determine which Weight Distribution Hitch kit you need, choose from the following:

• Adjustable Rack Length (4″, 6″ and 8″ Drop) • Receiver / Shank Size (2″, 2-1/2″ or 3″) • Ball Size (2″ or 2-5/16”) • Bracket Size (Available in 3″, 4″, 4-3/8″, 5″, 6″, 7″, & 8″)

We also have special brackets for underslung couplers and low trailer frames.

*Important: Currently the Atwood 88007, 88010, 88555 and 88600 couplers are not compatible with the Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch (all other Atwood couplers are fine.

Which Weight Distribution HItch do I need?

Not sure which version for the Weight Distribution Hitch you need for your truck and trailer? Answer a few questions about your truck and trailer, and we will tell you which version is compatible.

Weight Rating

4" drop/rise wd hitches.

8" Drop/Rise WD Hitches

Weight Distribution Hitch Warranty

1 Year Warranty Lifetime warranty on friction cone

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8 Best Weight Distribution Hitches with Sway Control

Sure, your pickup truck has a sufficient tow rating for that travel trailer you have your sights on, but is that all you should be concerned about?

A weight distribution hitch with sway control is not always a requirement, but there are few better ways of protecting that brand new (to you) Silverado 1500, and your (future) cozy camper. The additional stability could mean the difference between a long white-knuckled trip and the family camping vacation of a lifetime.

A weight distribution hitch is essentially a contraption that reduces the weight being applied to the tongue of the tow vehicle through the power of leverage. This is desirable to level the trailer and truck, and required when nearing or exceeding (not recommended) the truck’s rated tongue capacity.

Sway control is typically a device added to a weight distribution system that uses friction to increase the amount of force required for the trailer to pivot around the attachment point. This helps to prevent lane wandering and control sway back and forth (hence the name). It can be especially helpful in high winds and when navigating mountainous roads.

Table of Contents

Top Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control in 2024

1. eaz lift 48058 : best elite trailer equalizer hitch.

The assembly comes with the typical-diameter (2-5/16-inch) hitch ball, a perfect anti sway appliance with U-bolts, as well as the chains beneficially pre-installed. That’s why, the sway prevention set is easy to mount and pretty flexible, providing a 6-inch height setting .

Interesting information

The weight distribution system is produced by the famous Camco Manufacturing, Inc. that is an experienced company, producing various automotive accessories, including towing products since 1966 . It’s a US-based producer, with the headquarter in North Carolina . Having got 5 manufacturing facilities in the USA and one in China, the company is proud of its top-quality products, superior service, and competitive pricing .

Thus, the hitch is really durable. The shank is made of the strongest steel. It has 4 holes, so no drilling is required anymore. The weight distribution hitch is hefty and heavy-weight. Meanwhile, it may require some adjustments, as only the basic parts, including the sway ball, but not the hardware, are made of steel. The bolts, washers, and nuts are a bit flimsy, as usual, so you may use them or buy and utilize the most reliable ones.

The sway prevention hitch is covered by a 5-year warranty , that is quite moderate for the industry. It works quietly and pretty forcibly, being virtually the best equalizer hitch, meeting the basic towing needs and requirements.

• adjustable;
• no-drill installation;
• made of steel.
• some flimsy parts or hardware are included.

2. Blue Ox BXW1500 : Best High-Capacity Sway Control Hitch

The weight leveling kit is proudly produced in the USA (in Pender, NE state), in a factory with a longtime experience that started working since the early 1980s as Automatic Equipment Co. This prominent producer stands out by the top quality and sophisticated, open design hauling products. Consisting of spring bars, latches, brackets and pre-adjusted, easy-to-use heads, they are geometrically optimized, well-built.

Features and Specifications

Any additional adjustments are not necessary. The heads are open, providing easy access to the ball to tighten it. The torsion bars are beneficially made of top-grade steel, being able to flex and rotate 90 degrees. They are self-locking, including no extra pins or clips, able to back up, requiring no stops to fix the chains.

Thus, being virtually the best weight distribution and impactful sway control hitch, the device is intuitive to setup . Very good instructional videos can be watched on the manufacturer’s website. Additionally, the system enables the best possible usability, driving stability and handling improvement .

It completely eliminates sway, even in strong winds , providing amazingly smooth, safe, quiet rides. Generally, I guess, it’s the best self-adjusting weight distribution hitch with reliable sway control, high-capacity, long-lasting and noiseless.

The sway prevention system keeps the caravan perfectly centered. It fits minivans and pickups up to ¾ tons rating, like F150 or Chevy 2500 HD.

• fast to setup, hook and disconnect;
• lifetime warranty;
• all-weather no-sway results;
• inter-changeable torsion bars.
• you can get grease from the hitch while putting it on;
• the U-bolts may wear out during heavy use and require replacement.

3. Andersen Mfg 3350 : Best Universal Anti Sway Hitch

Andersen Hitches is a US-based, family-owned company that has 50+ years of faultless experience. Having got an innovative and spacious fabrication complex in Idaho Falls , the brand is famous for its top-quality products and unique technologies.

Thus, the weight distribution hitch is revolutionary in terms of technologies and materials. The kit is sway eliminating, anti-bounce, providing really smooth and noiseless trailer’s towing. It’s based on motion-dampening mechanism, including the patented springs, made of urethane .

Useful information

The installation and handling are amazingly easy due to the light assembly’s weight. The complete setup may take no more than half an hour. The sway eliminating set includes the standard, 2-5/16 ball that moves with the coupler, requiring no grease. The brackets and essential hardware are enclosed.

The hitch fits the 5-6-inch frame caravan’s brackets , rising and setting the bars. A clear and complete fitment guide is provided on the manufacturer’s website. The system provides 4-inch drop/rise , following the situation on the road. Finally, to remove it, just pull the pin out.

• lightweight;
• simple, innovative design;
• intuitive to install and remove;
• anti-bounce.
• it can make an unpleasant sound when turning a tight corner;
• the plastic insert and bushings may require replacement in some years.

4. Reese 66559 : Best Trunnion, RV Weight Distribution Hitch

The sway control kit prevents wagging and pitching , being virtually quiet during the hauling. It improves the truck’s brake control and handling, evenly apportioning the load forces.

Useful accessories

The weight distribution appliance features the thick, 30-inch spring bars, the lifting brackets, a steady-flex trunnion head, being powder-coated, sleek and long-lasting. Even the hardware is solid and reliable that is not common for the sets of automobile parts and accessories. Lifetime warranty speaks for the system’s durability.

Standing out by significant weight that makes about 93 pounds , the sway control assembly is hefty. All your family members or several friends would come together to carry it to the garage. The distribution hitch is produced under Reese brand by the famous Horizon Global Corporation that started operation in 1952 in North America (Plymouth, MI) that is recognized as the premium towing systems’ manufacturer. So, I think, this weight apportioning kit is produced in the USA , being reliable and top-quality. I highlight it among the best sway control systems thanks to its usability and durability.

The weight distribution device accurately fits 2” receivers and (according to the producer’s website) 5”-7” frames when it does about top-mount couplers. Bottom-mount ones work also on the 4” frames perfectly well. The hitch is fast to install, easy to connect and uncouple. The installation video and the guide are freely accessible, helping with the mounting perfectly well.

However, the top-quality, highly-efficient hitch also has some drawbacks. The hitch ball isn’t sent with the parcel. The part is to fit the sway prevention system, being 1-1/4-inch in diameter. Additionally, the powder coating is thick and available inside the threads. It might eliminate corrosion completely, but inserting the bolts isn’t the easiest actually, requiring applying some physical strength and a suitable torque wrench (3/4”-drive or 1/2”-drive).

• thick powder coat;
• easy to connect;
• no-drill, intuitive installation.
• the hitch ball is offered at additional cost.

5. Pro Series 49903 : Best Welded Weight Distribution Trailer Hitch

The weight transferring set is ready-to-mount, pre-installed, including a hitch and a sway balls, the essential hardware. The torsion devices and rounded, welded, made of top-grade, solid steel. An instructional video is available and it can help you significantly with the setup. The user manual is a bit complicated, unfortunately.

Additional information

So, the hitch is intuitive to collect and mount, easy to setup and use. The mounting commonly takes up to an hour. Just turn the washers and the rivet on the head, changing the tilt, according to the available trailer’s particularities. The shank’s height is also adjustable with the bolts easily.

Meanwhile, the weight distribution hitch is seemingly made in China, being delivered with a Reese label on it. I would say, it’s top-quality, well-designed and user-friendly, but it still may require frequent lubricating , for example, using a grease gun. The hitch can make some noise, especially by turning or backup.

• adjustable hitch’s head and bars;
• made of thick steel;
• 10-year manufacturer’s warranty;
• a bit noisy without lubrication;
• heavy-weight.

6. Curt Manufacturing 17007 : Best Load Leveling Hitch

The hitch is really well-designed, high-capacity and reliable. It’s not too heavy in terms of the weight, but able to handle up to 14,000 lbs . of weight totally. The sway prevention assembly includes 2” * 2” hitch heads, round bars, attachment tabs, an adjustable shank, the hardware. Additionally, it’s beneficially covered by limited lifetime manufacturer warranty (one-year on the finish and parts).

The bars are beneficially produced from steel, forged, powder-coated, to ensure the premium corrosion resistance, durability, and anti-scratch protection. It’s easy to setup and disconnect, as it requires only removing of the pin and clip.

More information

However, the hitch ball is absent in the parcel, and it’s necessary to buy a 2-5/16-inch one separately, preferably made by Curt Manufacturing , obtaining the best compatibility. A receiver lock can be bought optionally to protect the pin from being removed, making the hitch theft-proof.

As to the installation, it’s quite intuitive. But the manual is not completely clear for the beginners or the drivers, going to deal with towing for the first time. I would suggest putting the bottom adjustment bolt in at about 3 quarters and using 5 washers. The parts require some lubrication . Adjustment is pretty simple, taking only a couple of minutes and it can be performed on the road.

• simple-to-adjust;
• corrosion-resistant and durable;
• precise leveling abilities;
• heavy-duty heads included.
• a 2-5/16 ball is to be purchased additionally.

7. Camco Chem 48733 : Best Trailer Weight Distribution System

The hitch includes no chains, but it lets the trailer turn easily, performing flawlessly. The Recurve R6 sway control kit’s design is innovative, providing the premium ground clearance. It automatically disengages on tough corners or on the icy roads when you don’t need it. This way, it makes maneuvering much smoother than the similar weight distribution hitches allow.

Interesting benefits

The hitch looks subtle and sleek due to the black finish; it’s really massive and heavy-duty . The installation is not complicated or time-consuming. Only the instructions are a bit long and not too clear. The bar mounts are a bit flimsy, twisting excessively. Additionally, the lanyard pins are easy to lose. In this case, the manufacturer sends the replacement ones very fast.

• innovative design;
• highly efficient on the corners;
• heavy-weight;
• heavy-duty.
• common mounts and pins issues.

8. Equal-i-zer 90-00-1200 : Reliable Sway Control Hitch

75 years of dedication, make the company leading and reliable. Ed Hedgepeth founded it in 1945 in Utah. Initially, it worked as Mobile Manufacturing. Then moved from one city to another (Salt Lake City –Lindon – Provo). Nowadays, it gets special (reader’s choice) awards every year. It’s a reliable proof of the products’ quality and usability.

Having the hitch installed, you can drive safely. Any quick maneuver doesn’t cause lane wandering. Gusty winds don’t keep you from driving. 4-point hitch is unrivaled. It ensures the highest level of resistance to sway. It distributes the caravan’s weight to all axes. The accessory improves braking and steering.

Features and Benefits

The hitch consists of the strongest, high-grade American steel. It includes a pair of 12-inches long shanks and a head. Control brackets and 36”-long spring bars are its essential parts. Find a couple, two, three rivets, washers and installation hardware inside the parcel. Installation is intuitive. But the ball is not available. You’ll have to buy it additionally.

• heavy-duty;
• easy-to-use;
• intuitive to install;
• no ball included;
• might make some noise while turning.

Get more information by reading the recall forum users.

Buyer’s Guide

Is a weight leveling and distribution system an unnecessary gadget, recommended by obtrusive sellers or an essential towing accessory ? Let’s check it.

When Do You Require a Weight Distribution Hitch?

When you buy a caravan to go camping or sightseeing, you could mention that it’s quite large and heavy. Your pickup truck is definitely powerful and impressive, but its weight is significantly less (50%, at least) than the camper trailer’s tonnage. So, a towing device is commonly required by the vehicles’ manufacturers. It’s necessary to ensure all road users’ safety.

What Does a Weight Distribution Hitch Actually Do?

The set levels the caravan, transferring the weight to all axes, making the tongue be perfectly leveled. The advanced weight distribution kits stand out by the built-in sway reducing features . They provide the necessary towing safety, preventing lane wandering , making driving soft and quiet, improving the tow vehicle braking and steering.

Thus, selecting the best weight distribution and anti-sway hitch to haul the camper , consider:

• the necessary capacity;
• the kit’s ease of setting up and adjusting;
• the type of the torsion bar;
• the finish;
• availability of the basic parts.

The principal ratings, indicative of the weight distribution hitch’s performance are GTW and TW .

Gross (total) caravan’s weight or GTW shows the tonnage of the completely loaded trailer that is being towed.

TW (tongue caravan’s weight) designates the tongue mass, including the weight of the stuff delivered behind the rear tow vehicle’s axle, for example, in the pickup truck’s bed.

Tongue weight commonly makes from 9% to 11% (or up to 15%) of the trailer’s tonnage. Thus, before selecting the suitable system that performs weight carrying and distributing functions, it’s recommended to measure the loads delivered in the cargo area and inside the trailer. This way, you avoid raising or lowering the front truck’s end. The suitable-capacity weight distribution hitch provides level, well-controlled, smooth travel. The rating is to be indicated in your truck’s and the caravan’s owner manuals, and should never be exceeded.

Spring Bar Types For Weights

The weight distribution system commonly comes with one of 2 spring bar types , such as:

• round (intuitive to setup, providing better clearance);
• trunnion (standing out by higher load capacity).

The anti-sway option is essential to improve control and braking. Eliminating any risk of the trailer falling on harsh corners or bumps with the nearest vehicles due to abrupt wind or the trailer radius overbalance.

Carbide or black powder finish is preferable as it ensures great, sleek appearance and premium durability, making the hitch corrosion-resistant and high-performance.

All the weight distribution assemblies I recommend you are user-friendly and intuitive to setup. The installation takes up to half an hour, requiring only common tools and basic skills.

Finally, the pre-assembled kits that have all the essential parts included are preferable. Otherwise, compare the total weight distribution hitches’ costs, adding the optional components’ prices.

How to Properly Set Up the Delivered Weight Distribution Hitch?

The kit installed to the receiver commonly includes :

• a class 3,4 or 5 hitches (it should have a weight rating label attached);
• a head set;
• 2 bars with chains or without them;
• 2 lift brackets.

A hitch ball may be included or recommended to buy separately.

Thus, mounting the properly fitting weight distribution kit:

• level the caravan’s tongue, paralleling it with the parking field;
• mount the shank initially, then the hitch’s head and the ball;
• add the torsion bars.
• tighten the available bolts, connecting the weight distribution assembly.

How to Adjust the Pre-Installed Weight Distribution Hitch?

Level the tongue jack by tightening the ball or the brackets, either by lifting the chains and hooking them.

How to Prevent Bounces, Bumps, and Sway?

Being able to adjust a sway control bar (by connecting its end to your truck’s suspension) . Level both the caravan and the light truck and ensure the complete driving and towing safety. Above all, check the wagon’s weight. Using the scale of any kind. Subsequently, distribute the cargo weight correspondingly. All tires are to be equally inflated. Additionally, try to avoid abrupt winds.

Where to Buy a Hand-picked Weight Distribution Hitch?

How to buy a weight distributor and lifting device with the highest rating? First, you can visit the local auto parts store. Secondly, visit the nearest dealer of the manufacturer. And also to glance to the seller of the trailer or service center. The weight distribution set can be installed and adjusted there. But the prices on online shops or platforms like Amazon are more affordable. The information provided is complete and detailed.

Is a weight leveling and distribution system yet another unnecessary gadget or is it an essential towing accessory ? The answer is, of course: it depends. The single largest factor happens to be the weight being applied on the rear of the vehicle, and how that relates to the vehicle’s actual load capacity.

What Happens When Weight is Added to the Back of Your Pickup Truck?

Weight added to the truck bed at, or in front of the rear axle adds load to the front and rear axles that’s proportional to the distance it’s placed from the center of the two axles. Pickup trucks are designed to compensate for added load on the rear axle by being front-heavy (we discuss this in more detail in our Adding Weight to Your Truck Bed Buyer’s Guide). 

Adding weight behind the rear axle also adds load to the rear axle, but in contrast, reduces the load on the front axle. This is fine…until it’s taken too far.

As you add weight to the tongue of your truck, you will notice that the rear end of the truck begins to “squat” – this is the suspension compressing under the load. When it gets to a certain point, you may notice the front of the vehicle begin to rise. As this happens, the ride and the handling dynamics of the truck change significantly.

Technically, a weight distribution hitch is required when you’re towing a trailer and the tongue weight is nearing or exceeds that of your truck’s rated capacity. That said, you may not know the actual numbers, or your situation may just be more complex. 

What’s the simplest way to tell, visually? Hook up your trailer and look at your rig from the side. The truck should be sitting level, or with the rear slightly lower than the front, and the trailer should be sitting level. If the front of the truck is lifted significantly from its typical ride height, or if the truck and trailer form a “V,” you definitely need a weight distribution system (or you need to reevaluate your trailer).

The safest bet is to plan on using a weight distribution hitch if you’re towing a trailer or camper that is anywhere near your truck’s tow rating. It won’t hurt, and it can help ensure the safety of yourself and all those on the road around you.

A weight distribution hitch (or system) mechanically shifts some load from a truck’s rear axles to the front axles, and helps lift the front of the trailer being towed. For the mechanically inclined reader, the system is introducing a torque preload (in the vertical plane) at the hitch joint.

Properly distributing the load applied to the truck’s axles and leveling the whole rig greatly improves handling and helps prevent trailer sway or fishtailing, which can be catastrophic.

An anti-sway feature (might be built-in to the system you choose, or can be added) further dampens sway or lane wandering that can occur on the highway due to towing a large trailer or camper. This is accomplished by adding resistance to the left and right movement of the hitch joint (horizontal plane). This adds stability and increases driver comfort for long hauls on the highway, but likely must be removed for maneuvering in tight spaces. 

What should you look for when selecting the best weight distribution and anti-sway hitch to haul your camper or other heavy trailer?

A few things to consider:

• The required tow capacity;
• the type of torsion bar;
• availability of replacement parts.

Two of the most important numbers to understand are GTW and TW .

Gross Trailer Weight or GTW represents the weight of the completely loaded trailer that is being towed.

Tongue weight or TW specifies the portion of the weight applied at the point of attachment (hitch). When a trailer is loaded properly, the tongue weight is typically between 9% and 15% of the gross trailer weight (GTW). 

Before selecting a weight distribution system, it’s recommended that you determine your truck’s towing capacity and tongue weight rating, as well as the gross trailer weight and tongue weight of the trailer you wish to tow. These numbers will quickly narrow your product selection.

Spring Bar Types 

The weight distribution system commonly comes with one of 2 spring bar types : round, and trunnion.

Round spring bars tend to be used in systems with lower weight ratings, are a bit more difficult to install, but are less expensive.

Trunnion bars typically have a higher weight rating, are easier to install, and provide more ground clearance.

Anti-Sway Option

Many weight distribution systems have the option to add, or come with an anti-sway system. An anti-sway option is a great addition to improve stability and comfort for long hauls.

All the weight distribution assemblies I recommend here are user-friendly and intuitive to set up. Installation can take up to half an hour and requires only common tools and basic skills.

• a class 3,4 or 5 hitch (it should have a weight rating label attached);
• 2 spring bars, with or without chains;
• 2 lift brackets;
• a hitch ball may be included.

Mounting your new weight distribution kit:

• use the jack foot to level or lift the tongue of the trailer slightly beyond level;
• add the torsion bars;
• tighten the available bolts, connecting the weight distribution assembly;
• slowly lower the jack foot until all of the trailer’s weight is on the truck;
• step back and check your rig from the side – if it is sufficiently level, you’re ready to roll;

Where Can You Buy a Weight Distribution Hitch?

First, you can visit the local auto parts store. Second, you can visit the nearest dealer or manufacturer. Many trailer and camper dealers also sell systems, and they will likely even do the install and adjustment. But the prices on online shops or platforms like Amazon are typically more affordable, and have the advantage of numerous public reviews.

Final Verdict

In my opinion, BXW 1500 by Blue Ox is a great weight distribution hitch with sway control due to its extremely high loading capacity and durability. The anti-sway system 3350 from Andersen is lightweight, but it is equipped with some flimsy, plastic parts. The hitch kit 66559 by Reese is one of my favorite accessories as it helps to eliminate any pitching or wagging even in crosswinds.

Great video explainer on how this works and how to set it up: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGd7NSX9w_M

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The Best Protection for Your Journey

Whether you are passing a semi-truck, experiencing gusty wind, or making a quick maneuver, the Equal-i-zer hitch works to keep your trailer and family safe. Our Integrated 4-Point Sway Control™ resists more sway than any other hitch, providing safer, more comfortable towing, and our excellent weight distribution provides better steering, braking and vehicle control.

Superior Sway Control and Weight Distribution You Can Trust

4 Point Sway Control

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• Towing an Oliver

Which Weight Dist Hitch

By Pat Maundrell July 14, 2020 in Towing an Oliver

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Pat maundrell.

I've Towed RV Trailers for over 50 years all using WDH. We are considering an Oliver Elite 2 now and are curious about which Hitch to use.

We will either be using a Mercedes Benz SUV ML 350 Diesel or a GMC Yukon (Wheel Base Short/Long?)

I never heard of the Anderson Hitch until we started researching the Oliver Elite 2, not really sold on it. We prefer a more conventional WDH.

Does anyone use another WDH other than the Anderson on Oliver Trailers?

Please let me know if you do! Thanks Pat

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Welcome to the forum. My understanding is that the Andersen is the only WDH system recommended for use on the Oliver LEll due to the fiberglass cowling area covering the lower area of the  “dog house” aka propane tank housing. This is also what we were told by Oliver.  We tow with the Andersen WDH and so far it does what it’s suppose to do. 

2020 OLEII - Hull #634 aka-  “XPLOR”

2021 F350 6.7 liter Diesel Lariat Ultimate Tremor 

North Carolina 🇺🇸

John E Davies

The early versions of the Andersen had some issues, with excessive wear on the friction cone causing really nasty squealing and groaning when they got wet. Also, because of the coupler used (Bulldog forged), there is a tendency for excessive wear on the back of the ball because of the heavy forward thrust of the tension chains. I upgraded from the 2” size, which is rated for 7000 lbs and is marginal IMHO, to the 2  5/16” version which has a huge safety margin. This latest model has an effective moisture/ dust seal to protect the cone and it has been trouble free and effective. Ball wear is very minimal. I think the bigger ball should be standard equipment, but so far Oliver has resisted, but they will do the upgrade at delivery if you ask, for a price. Some buyers bring the bigger hitch and coupler and they simply swap the latter.

I much prefer towing the LE2 with a HD truck and a plain dead weight hitch, but for my Land Cruiser the Andersen works fine when adjusted correctly. It is highly effective at reducing jounce on undulating highways  but a little  less effective at actual weight distribution. The sway feature is a plus but it is not at all needed with an Ollie.

This might be of interest .....  https://olivertraveltrailers.com/forums/topic/3483-how-to-upgrade-the-bulldog-coupler-and-andersen-hitch-to-2-516quot/

Welcome to the forum.

John Davies

SOLD  07/23 "Mouse":  2017 Legacy Elite II Two Beds, Hull Number 218, See my HOW TO threads: 

Tow Vehicle: 2013 Land Cruiser 200, 32” LT tires, airbags, Safari snorkel, Maggiolina Grand Tour 360 Carbon RTT.

I wasn't a real fan of the Anderson, for what reasons I don't know, but after having one, it's great. Very easy to use and most of the work is done by the trailer tongue jack, I normally do not have to adjust the chains each time I hookup and unhook. If you don't want to deal with a WDH get a 3/4 ton pickup and you won't need one. 

2019 RAM 1500, 5.7 Hemi, 4X4, Crew Cab, 5'7" bed, Towing Package, 3.92 Gears. Oliver was sold.

9 hours ago, Pat Maundrell said: I've Towed RV Trailers for over 50 years all using WDH. We are considering an Oliver Elite 2 now and are curious about which Hitch to use. We will either be using a Mercedes Benz SUV ML 350 Diesel or a GMC Yukon (Wheel Base Short/Long?) I never heard of the Anderson Hitch until we started researching the Oliver Elite 2, not really sold on it. We prefer a more conventional WDH. Does anyone use another WDH other than the Anderson on Oliver Trailers? Please let me know if you do! Thanks Pat

Traditional WD hitches won't adapt to the Olivers due mainly to its composite tongue design, layout, dimensions, and geometry.  This "Y frame" setup leaves the Andersen No-Sway as the only viable solution, limited WD capabilities aside. I have looked into incorporating a pole tongue adapter but integration complexities were unacceptable and the additional weight counterproductive. 

Having "experience" with the Andersen since it was first introduced, I elected to forego one on my LEII even though it means being on the edge with certain tow vehicles.  Sway is a rarity with the LEII and bounce happens, both are easily manageable. These are two conditions where the No_Sway is supposed to excel, but I find most of Andersen's other claims overstated or questionable.

To my knowledge, no one has ever really tried to make a traditional WDH work.  I asked Raspy if he could get me a WD kit for my McHitch since he's the rep now, and told him I'd try to make it work, but he never replied so I guess he wasn't interested.

58 minutes ago, Overland said: I asked Raspy if he could get me a WD kit for my McHitch since he's the rep now, and told him I'd try to make it work, but he never replied so I guess he wasn't interested.

That is interesting, I messaged him about this and never heard back. I would like to try the McHitch but not without the WD function. My Land Cruiser is simply too bouncy without it, even with rear airbags. OTH it probably weighs twice as much as the Andersen, which is less than 60 pounds.

Another plus for the Andersen is how the chain brackets clamp onto the frame members. It is very solid and at the same time (almost) non-destructive. A typical steel WD chain hanger would absolutely wreck this frame if attached in the usual manner, which is simply hung over the top and the set bolt is tightened down. I never had any luck with those, on two trailers they always slipped. I ended up having them fully welded which completely fixed the problem, but that is simply not possible with an aluminum frame.

Mike and Carol

3 hours ago, Overland said: To my knowledge, no one has ever really tried to make a traditional WDH work.  I asked Raspy if he could get me a WD kit for my McHitch since he's the rep now, and told him I'd try to make it work, but he never replied so I guess he wasn't interested.

He is planning on attending the fall rally with his Black Series.

Texas Hill Country | 2016 Elite II #135 | 2020 Ram 2500 6.7L

Thanks, all good comments! 

I've seen only one Oliver Trailer and wish I had inspected the Front End of the Frame more to get more familiar with it's design. I would prefer a traditional WDH because I believe the Weight Distribution Characteristics (ability to transfer weight to the Front Axle of the Tow vehicle) of them are better, although the Swag Control maybe okay on the Anderson. I plan on having at least one and maybe two Honda Generators mounted on the front of the trailer, so the tongue weight would be higher than normal. Additionally, I hope to use a Mid Size SUV, so the ability to correctly balance the weight is very important to maintain Road Feel/safety!!  

I'll try to contact Oliver to get better pictures of their Frame etc.

This might help you:

https://olivertraveltrailers.com/travel-trailers/legacy-elite-2/photo-gallery/#&gid=1&pid=61

Thanks for the pictures, they were helpful! 

I have contact Oliver to ask them the question regarding WDH options. I would like to consider the Hensley Swift Cub ( light duty version of their Arrow Model) as well as the Equalizer WDH. Hopefully there will be options available. 

16 minutes ago, Pat Maundrell said: I have contact Oliver to ask them the question regarding WDH options. I would like to consider the Hensley Swift Cub ( light duty version of their Arrow Model) as well as the Equalizer WDH. Hopefully there will be options available. 

The Swift Cub is too light (6000 pound rating) for an LE2, but in looking at the Equalizer brackets, I think those could possibly be attached to the outer Oliver frame members, depending on how long the spring arms are.  

It would require removal of a portion of the fiberglass cover on each side. I have considered cutting off the entire section that covers the frame, leaving only the actual “doghouse”. I would rather look at that pretty frame than the cover.... for the same reason I removed the spare tire cover the day I got home from delivery. I prefer to see more of the trailers “bones”.

Please keep us updated on this, I am sure other owners are interested.

1 hour ago, John E Davies said: ...depending on how long the spring arms are.

I think that's the key, and unfortunately it's a difficult dimension to find for a lot of kits.

In my case, I have the added complication of the jockey wheel.  I have an idea that I could come up with something that would allow me to run the spring arms of any WD hitch just straight back, somehow attaching them to the tongue itself rather than the diagonals.  You'd lose much of the sway control that way, but I'm more interested in strict weight transfer personally.  Don't ask me how that attachment would work, but I'm certain that something could be designed.

22 hours ago, Pat Maundrell said: Thanks, all good comments!  I've seen only one Oliver Trailer and wish I had inspected the Front End of the Frame more to get more familiar with it's design. I would prefer a traditional WDH because I believe the Weight Distribution Characteristics (ability to transfer weight to the Front Axle of the Tow vehicle) of them are better, although the Swag Control maybe okay on the Anderson. I plan on having at least one and maybe two Honda Generators mounted on the front of the trailer, so the tongue weight would be higher than normal. Additionally, I hope to use a Mid Size SUV, so the ability to correctly balance the weight is very important to maintain Road Feel/safety!!   I'll try to contact Oliver to get better pictures of their Frame etc.

I think the key words here are, Mid Size SUV, now I see where all this is going. 

BackofBeyond

Make it simple, make it safe, and forget it - go buy an adequately sized TV.

Cindy,  Russell and  "Harley dog" . Home is our little farm near Winchester TN

2018 Oliver Legacy Elite II - 2018 GMC 2500 Duramax 

I remember Reed and Karen Lukens towing their Elite II with an ML350 for the first year or two. I don't know if they used a wdh. Theirs was a diesel.

What year is yours?

2008 Ram 1500 4 × 4

2008 Oliver Elite, Hull #12

Florida and Western North Carolina, or wherever the truck goes....

400 watts solar. DC compressor fridge. No inverter. 2 x 105 ah agm batteries .  Life is good.

Your ML should tow the Elite II quite well but you will have to pay close attention to your vehicle's carrying capacity.   You may not be able to carry as much as you think on the tongue.

Great ride, great brakes and great gas mileage!

If you have concerns, I would suggest you contact the towing experts at Can-Am RV Centre in Ontario, Canda.  

https://www.canamrv.ca/

The Andersen weigh distribution hitch has worked well for us.

2019 Legacy Elite II  2018 BMW x5 35d 

1 hour ago, SeaDawg said: I remember Reed and Karen Lukens towing their Elite II with an ML350 for the first year or two. I don't know if they used a wdh. Theirs was a diesel. What year is yours?

This picture is from the Oliver website and shows the Lukens towing with their MB and I don’t see a WDH.

Mike and Krunch   Lutz, FL   2017 LEII #193  “the dog house”

I don’t think they did but then they also bought a pickup shortly after so maybe send them a PM to ask how well their Merc towed and why they switched.  I do know that the issue with a lot of unibody vehicles is that they specifically say not to use WD hitches with them, so that can potentially be a problem.   

Mercs aside, I believe there are several Ollie owners who tow with the larger Audis without a WD hitch, and who seem to have uniformly good reviews about their towing performance with the OE2. 

Donthompson towed his LEII with a VW Touareg TDI and was really happy with it.

I realize the Hensley Swift Cub is rated at 6000lbs, I told the Hensley Rep that the Elite 2 had a GVWR of 7000lbs, but I doubt I'll ever Tow at that weight.

The cost of the Hensley is $1860.00 compared to an Equalizer at $860.00. Since I am considering a Mid Size SUV with a Towing capacity of I believe 7200LBS, Hensley seemed to say it would be okay. The alternative would to go up to their Arrow Model rated at 14,000lbs, and costing around $2700.00, way overkill. I've admired the Hensley Hitch's design for over 25 years, but they are very expensive, maybe a used hitch might work. However, in reality, the Equalizer may be the best reasonable choice from a cost/performance point of view as well has being able to adapt to the Oliver's Frame and LPG Tank Shrouding with the cleanest installation.

We had a 25 foot Airstream 15 years ago and I remember them stressing the important of the relationship between the Tow Vehicle's Wheel Base and the Overall Wheel Base to include the Tow Vehicle and the Trailer. In "Layman's Terms," that means that even though a Mid Size Short WB SUV-Tow Vehicle may have a 7200LBS Tow Spec, it doesn't automatically means it the best Choice. You can end up with a situation where the "Tail (Trailer) wags the Head (Tow Vehicle). This is why 1/2 ton vehicle SUVs and Pich Ups are so popular for TV.

The above is why I am considering  such a WDH in the first place! IMHO, the Hensley's characteristics take the "Tail wagging the Head" scenario out of the picture.  

I think you’ll find that with an Ollie, sway really isn’t the issue so much as just getting the weight back on the front wheels for better steering traction.   

• 2 weeks later...

I've discussed this topic with Oliver and the bottom line is that the Anderson Hitch is the only Hitch they would install, which I understand.  

• 6 months later...

It has been awhile since I started learning about Oliver Trailers and I can report I've learned about them! I am even more convinced than ever about their concepts!

I sold my ML 350 because it didn't have a Factory Hitch on it and I wasn't comfortable with an After-Market installation, along with the necessary extra Coolant/Oil/Auto Trans cooling etc. Enter the replacement Tow Vehicle which is a used Mercedes Benz GL450 with Tow Package. According to CanAm, this is one of the BEST "TV" out there!

I looked at several Olivers since I first started, a 2016, and 2020, but now I am seriously considering a new one. By the time we spent the money adding the options we wanted to the used trailers, it became obvious that we should consider a new trailer. Down-side is the Lead Time. Of course it would be more expensive, but it would have a Warranty that the 2020 doesn't and would be 1-2 years newer, not to mention the options that my wife wanted. We will sleep on this!

I have warmed up to the Andersen Hitch and have even bought a used Hitch and purchased the Update-Kit, saved $550.00 over a new Hitch. As a retired "Heavy Duty Truck Sales Engineer," and experienced RVer, I know the important of proper Weight Distribution as it relates to Safety and good TV Handing. I doubt Oliver would select anything that wasn't able to do the job.  

The Andersen WDH tends to get maligned here and elsewhere upon occasion, but, in my experience 95% of the time it is better than any other WDH I've seen or used.

I've never heard of an Oliver that really "needed" the anti-sway features but those red bushings on the Andersen really do help with dampening the "bounce" or "porpoiseing"  that can occur with large bumps like interstate bridge expansion joints.

Yes, life would be easier using a TV that didn't require a WDH in the first place.  But, these larger vehicles do have some distractions/features that make them not the best choice from an overall perspective for many people - like me.

2023 Ford F150 Lariat 3.5EB FX4 Max Towing, Max Payload, 2016 Oliver Elite II - Hull #117 " Twist "

Near Asheville, NC

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