A weight distribution hitch is there to save you from trouble when the trailer starts swaying and to ensure you don’t lose control of the vehicle especially when you’re carrying heavy load. CareYourCars.com presumes you must have had at least one experience of a heart-pounding moment and hence, here’s why you need to install a weight distribution hitch today!
Buying a new weight-distributing hitch isn’t often a spur of the moment purchase. First of all, the hitches run from $200 to nearly $1,000. So make sure you buy the right one for the load you plan on towing since the range in capacity will affect the performance. Next, there are styles that clamp on and ones that screw in, as well as ones that come with sway bars. Then there are ones that don’t allow backing up and ones that do. So take help of a professional and make the right choice.
Why do you need to install a weight distribution hitch today? Simple, to improve your safety. If you precisely set up the weight-distributing hitch, your load will evenly distribute over the axles on the trailer which will give you more stability and control while driving.
It also gives your tow vehicle and trailer a more level ride. A squatting truck and trailer hookup doesn’t just look bad; it can also be dangerous. When your tow vehicle and trailer squat, your brakes and steering won’t react quite as well nor will your headlights illuminate the road right in front of you as they will point higher into the sky. Also, minor bumps and dips are amplified and you can more easily bottom out.
While weight-distributing hitch usage is pretty well known to be low, the reality is it should be much higher. Just because you think your truck can “handle it” doesn’t mean it will when you need it most like in bad weather or in an emergency situation. If you are still not convinced, here’s a concise check-list for you to see if you need one or not (We know you do). You would likely benefit from a weight distribution system if:
- Your trailer weight (GTW) is more than 50 percent of your vehicle’s weight (GVWR)
- The rear of your tow vehicle sags when the trailer is hooked up
- You experience trailer sway
- Your tow vehicle’s headlights point upward
- You find it difficult to steer or stop your rig
- You want to tow to the highest capacity allowed by your vehicle’s trailer hitch
Weight distribution systems are available in many styles that differ based on features such as the spring bars, the head assembly, and the sway control. A standard weight distribution system which can be used when trailer sway is not an issue, has the following features:
- Sway Control
- Compatible with add-on, bar-style friction sway controls
- Many Reese systems have bends integrated into the ends of the spring bars so you can upgrade to dual-cam sway control any time
- Trailer Brake Compatibility
- Electric brakes
- Surge or hydraulic brakes (only when used without any sway-control device)
- Head Adjustment Method
- Varies from manufacturer to manufacturer and the model
- Spring Bars
- Round and trunnion bars available
- Construction depends on manufacturer
These tips and tricks may vary from one system to another system. Some of them, like the ones that offer enhanced sway control, may have variations in terms of installation. So it is a good idea to get on board some professional to help you determine the right hitch for your vehicle based on the additional features and help with the set-up. You have CareYourCars.com at your perusal.
About Author: Thomas Vinh
Thomas Vinh is founder of http://autoizipro.com/, a personal blog where he share his hobbies: off-roading and competitive programming. Autoizipro’s mission is to become a number one destination for automotive and garage gear enthusiasts.
