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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!

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Camper leveler.

$ 44.99

Each kit includes 1 leveler and 1 chock.  We recommend 1 leveler per axle.

• Level your trailer on the first try!
• Precise leveling at any increment between 1/2 inch and 4 inches
• Lifts up to 4 inches
• Works great on trailers up to 30,000 lbs and with tires up to 32″ diameter
• Made in the USA
• Covered under a lifetime warranty
• Works great on trailers up to 30,000 lbs and with tires up to 32" diameter

Level your trailer on the

First try every time.

With the innovative Camper Leveler you can level your RV or trailer on the first try every single time. No more guesswork. No more hassle. Simply drive up until you are level and then chock—it’s that simple. The Andersen Camper Leveler provides ‘dead-on’ leveling at any increment from 1/2″ to 4″ – no other leveler is this precise – or this easy to use!

leveling in 3 steps

• Tightly place the Camper Levelers under each tire
• Drive up on the levelers until the trailer is level
• Place a Tuff Chock under each Camper Leveler

Weight rating & Specs

• Works great on trailers up to 30,000 lbs and with tires up to 32” diameter • Each Camper Leveler comes with a Tuff Chock • Precise leveling at any increment between 1/2” and 4” • Made in the USA • Covered under lifetime warranty

level your camper

Ultimate Trailer Gear Duffel - Bag Only

This sturdy carry bag with Handles is the same one featured in our popular Ultimate Trailer Gear duffel bag (part #3600). This high-quality black bag is great for carrying a variety of Andersen products or almost anything else!

Super EZ Block Duffel Kit

All the trailer accessories you need in one tool bag • Making life a little easier for the avid traveler, sportsman, and camper • With this duffel you have all the gear you need to stabilize and level your trailer, change a flat tire (multi-axle vehicles), and keep 90% of the dirt outside. • Made in the USA • Covered under lifetime warranty

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8 Best Stabilizer Hitches for Travel Trailers in 2024: Find the Perfect Weight Distribution Hitch

• Last Updated: August 25, 2024
• 40 minutes read

As someone who has rigorously tested numerous stabilizing solutions for travel trailers, I understand the importance of having a reliable weight distribution hitch to ensure safety and comfort on the road.

The right hitch can significantly alleviate the swaying and instability that often plagues trailers, making your journey smoother and worry-free.

Among the variety of options I’ve evaluated, focusing on anti sway hitch and spring bar technology specifically designed for travel trailers, one product stood out distinctly.

After testing 8 top contenders in the market, the Blue Ox BXW1000 SWAYPRO Weight Distributing Hitch earned its place as my best overall recommendation.

This hitch excels in providing superior sway control and weight distribution, ensuring your trailer remains steady in various driving conditions.

Based on my experience, the top stabilizer hitches for travel trailers are:

• Blue Ox BXW1000 SWAYPRO Weight Distributing Hitch : Best overall for its exceptional sway control and weight distribution.
• EAZ LIFT 48053 Elite Bent Bar Weight Distributing Hitch : Great for its bent bar design that enhances stability.
• Husky 32218 Center Line TS with Spring Bars : Excellent for integrating weight distribution and sway control in a robust design.
• Reese Pro 49903 Weight Distributing Hitch : Ideal for its versatility and ease of use.
• CURT 17063 MV Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control : Top choice for those seeking a durable and reliable option with integrated sway control.
• Camco Eaz-Lift ReCurve R6 Weight Distributing Hitch Kit with Sway Control : Perfect for those who prioritize easy setup and effective sway control.
• Andersen Hitches 3350 No Sway Weight Distribution Hitch : Best for its no-sway technology and lightweight design.
• Fastway 10K RB Fastway e2 2-point Sway Control Distribution Hitch : Good for its straightforward installation and efficient sway control mechanism.

IN THIS ARTICLE

8 Best RV Weight Distribution Hitches for Safe and Stable Towing

1. best overall: blue ox bxw1000 swaypro weight distributing hitch.

The Blue Ox BXW1000 SWAYPRO is our pick for the best overall weight distribution hitch because it comes with a pre-adjusted hitch head that doesn’t require any further fine-tuning once it’s installed.

That’s not always the case with these hitches and it makes this a great choice if you don’t have a ton of experience using them. 

This trunnion-style hitch has excellent sway control which allows you to tow at faster speeds without worrying about your trailer fishtailing behind you.

Trunnions on either side of the hitch head work together with the hitch’s spring bars to create a caster effect. This effect continuously pushes inward to keep everything in line. 

You’ll also be able to navigate easier when you arrive at a new campground. Some locations have tight turns and others require you to back up to get into your site.

With this hitch, you won’t have to disconnect in order to back up. But when you do want to disconnect, it’s super easy to do so.

It takes just minutes to connect and disconnect to this hitch, which gives you the freedom to drop your trailer or vehicle without any added headaches. 

If the tongue of your trailer already boasts a coupler welded to the top of the frame and it doesn’t have any cross-members on the tongue, you’ll be able to utilize this hitch out-of-the-box.

It is compatible with other trailer tongues, however. You just may need to purchase additional bolt-on latches or an optional hitch head to ensure safe towing. 

The Blue Ox BXW1000 has a maximum tongue weight rating of 1,000 pounds and a maximum gross weight rating of 10,000 pounds.

It also boasts spring steel construction that adds durability and strength to the entire unit and you won’t have to disconnect this hitch when you need to back your trailer up.

Things We Like

• Sway Control: Keeps everything in line so you avoid fishtailing.
• Pre-Adjusted Hitch Head: Requires no additional fine-tuning after installation.
• Easy Connection: The spring bars on this hitch are self-locking.
• Clamp-On Latches: Don’t require the use of any additional hardware for installation.

Things We Don’t Like

• Compatibility: Works best with trailer tongues with coupler welded to the top of the frame and without cross-members on the tongue.
• Price: You’ll pay a little extra for the quality of this hitch.

2. Best Budget-Friendly: EAZ LIFT 48053 Elite Bent Bar Weight Distributing Hitch

The EAZ LIFT 48053 weight distribution hitch is the most budget-friendly round bar hitch we could find on the market today.

The good news is that you won’t have to severely sacrifice quality to get a hitch that fits your budget.

EAZ LIFT is actually made by Camco, which is one of the more reliable brands in the industry. 

It comes with an adjustable ball mount but does not include the hitch ball itself. So you’ll have to grab this accessory separately to make this hitch work for you.

The bars on this hitch, however, are actually interchangeable. This is uncommon amongst this type of hitch but it serves to provide a smoother ride. 

The bars use positive latching action to attach to your trailer tongue and the round spring bars on this hitch are machine tapered and forged longer for added strength and durability.

These spring bars can actually be removed if you chose to operate it as a more standard weight distributing hitch. Doing so, however, significantly reduces the hitch’s tongue weight and gross weight ratings. 

The hitch is adjustable to fit many different trailer-vehicle combinations and it comes with clips and bolt package for easy installation.

The shank size is 2” x 2” with a 10-inch length, a 2.5-inch drop, and a 5.5-inch rise.

The entire package is also backed by the manufacturer’s 5-year warranty, which is always a good sign when it comes to your safety and the safety of your vehicle/trailer investments. 

The EAZ LIFT 48053 also has a maximum tongue weight of 1,000 pounds and a maximum gross weight rating of 10,000 pounds. If you remove the spring bars, however, those ratings drop down to 600 pounds and 6,000 pounds, respectively.

• Price: It’s the most budget-friendly hitch on our list.
• Versatility: Spring bars can be removed to use it as a more standard hitch.
• 5-Year Manufacturer’s Warranty: Camco stands behind the quality of their product.
• Adjustable Hitch: Can adapt to fit a variety of trailer-vehicle combinations.
• Hitch Ball Not Included: You’ll have to purchase a compatible hitch ball separately.

3. Best For Quiet Use: Husky 32218 Center Line TS with Spring Bars

If you’re looking for a trunnion-style hitch that doesn’t cause a bunch of extra noise while you’re driving down the highway, check out the Husky 32218 Center Line TS.

Annoying noise can be an issue with other sway bars and weight distribution products, but that’s not the case with this hitch. 

One of the reasons for this noise reduction is the fact that this hitch doesn’t use chains to attach to the tongue of your trailer.

Those chains jangling around are primarily what causes the noise in other models. But you’ll be able to hear (and feel) the difference when you drive with this hitch. 

The unit combines sway control and weight distribution to provide quiet performance without the need for any additional hardware. This makes it super easy to install.

The handles on the bars further aid in securing them to (and removing them from) your trailer and the frame brackets are easily adjustable to mount on a variety of trailer tongues.  

The Husky 32218 Center Line TS has a maximum tongue weight rating of 1,200 pounds and a maximum gross weight rating of 12,000 pounds.

The hitch itself weighs a total of 116 pounds, which is lighter than many. This lighter weight makes it easier to install and remove as needed.

• Quiet Operation: No noisy chains like other hitches.
• Built-in Sway Control: Doesn’t require installation of any additional hardware or accessories.
• Lightweight: This is a relatively lightweight hitch compared to similar models.
• Easy Installation: Handles on the frame brackets make it easier to install.
• Compatibility: This hitch is built for a 2 and 5/16” hitch ball.

4. Best With Preinstalled Hitch Ball: Reese Pro 49903 Weight Distributing Hitch

The Reese 49913 Wd Rb Pro round bar hitch is a great option if you’re looking for a weight distribution hitch with a preinstalled hitch ball.

This means you won’t have to worry about finding a hitch ball separately and risk picking one that’s not compatible. With a preinstalled hitch ball, compatibility is a non-issue.

The hitch ball is 2 and 5/16ths of an inch in diameter and it arrives already torqued to the hitch head.

The spring bars on this hitch are tapered to provide more even weight distribution over your trailer axles.

This provides an even smoother ride and the include friction sway control prevents fishtailing at high speeds.

For an RV accessory that’s consistently exposed to dirt, debris, rain, and other elements, it’s important to know it’s going to last.

That’s why I like the fact that all the metal components of this hitch are finished with powder coating.

This finish improves the overall corrosion resistance and durability of the hitch over its lifetime.

In addition, the clamp-on brackets that come with this hitch are designed to fit trailer frames up to seven inches in diameter.

While this hitch won’t be compatible with larger trailer frames, the brackets don’t require any drilling to be installed properly.

This hitch also fits taller trucks with a two-inch shank size and an 8.5-inch drop.

The Reese 49913 Wd Rb Pro has a maximum tongue weight rating of 1,150 pounds and a maximum gross weight rating of 11,500 pounds.

It is also backed by the manufacturer’s 10-year limited warranty if certain components require repairs or replacement.

• Preinstalled Hitch Ball: Comes with a 2 and 5/16” hitch ball preinstalled.
• Powder Coat Finish: Improves corrosion resistance over the life of the hitch.
• 10 Year Warranty: The manufacturer offers a 10-year limited warranty on this hitch.
• Tapered Spring Bars: Provide more even weight distribution over the axles.
• Compatibility: Made to fit only bottom mount couplers.
• Specific Clamp Brackets: These brackets are designed to fit trailer frames only up to seven inches.

5. Best Gross Trailer Weight Rating: CURT 17063 MV Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control

If you’re in search of a weight distribution hitch with a high gross trailer weight rating, look no further than the CURT 17063 MV Round Bar hitch.

This hitch is the best option for anyone that needs to tow a longer trailer and it has a lot of great features to keep that extra length in line with your towing vehicle. 

For starters, it provides more level towing by more evenly distributing the tongue weight of your trailer across the area of the vehicle-trailer combination.

In conjunction with the included sway control bar, your trailer will stay more level while you’re driving than with many other distribution hitches. 

In order to improve sound on the road, this hitch includes an integrated lubrication system.

This system provides continuous lubrication through the use of two easy-access grease zerk fittings on the hitch head.

These fittings are built directly into the head and provide lubrication at the spring bar mounting location. 

Speaking of the spring bars, they are each 31 and 1/16th of an inch long and made of forged steel.

The pre-torqued hitch ball is 2 and 5/16th of an inch in diameter and the shank size is 2” x 2”.

This shank size makes it compatible with class 3, class 4, and even the heaviest of class 5 trailer hitches. 

The CURT 17063 MV Round Bar has a maximum tongue weight rating of 1,400 pounds and a maximum gross weight rating of 14,000 pounds.

It also boasts a durable black carbide powder coat finish to add durability and corrosion resistance to the components.

• Adaptability: Standard shank size fits class 3, 4, and 5 trailer hitches.
• Continuous Lubrication: Lubrication at the spring bar mounting location ensures a smoother ride.
• Level Towing: More even weight distribution at the tongue makes your trailer ride more level.
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: This hitch is rated a maximum gross weight of 14,000 pounds.
• Performance in Tight Spaces: Some users reported the need to disconnect the sway control bar when making tight turns, especially to the right.

6. Extra Ground Clearance: Camco Eaz-Lift ReCurve R6 Weight Distributing Hitch Kit with Sway Control

If you consistently take your trailer to locations that require a little extra clearance, the Camco Eaz-Lift ReCurve R6 top-loading round bar hitch is one of the best in the business.

It’s specifically designed to provide more ground clearance than other hitches and the model’s sway control can temporarily be disengaged to provide better performance in icy or dangerous road conditions. 

Unlike many hitches, the spring bars on this one are top-loading. This design feature creates more ground clearance and also makes them much easier to install.

This feature is aided by the fact that the shank itself only has a maximum drop of ¾”. It does provide a maximum rise, however, of seven inches. 

Camco specifically designed this hitch to be one of the most user-friendly models in their fleet.

In doing so, they created a system that automatically disengages the sway control function when you turn.

With other hitches, the sway control function can essentially “lock” your trailer straight and it must be manually disengaged for tight turns or navigating into a campsite. 

That isn’t the case with the ReCurve, which makes it much easier and efficient to navigate tight campgrounds or get your trailer into position in trickier spots.

This model comes with a 2 and 5/16” hitch ball and a 2” square hitch bar with a length of 12 inches. The spring bars themselves are 30 inches long. 

The Camco Eaz-Lift ReCurve R6 has a maximum tongue weight rating of 1,000 pounds and a maximum gross weight rating of 10,000 pounds.

Like other good hitch models, the metallic components of this one are finished with powder coating to length their lifespan and provide added corrosion resistance.

• Ground Clearance: This hitch has a maximum rise of seven inches and a drop of only three-quarters of an inch.
• Top-Loading Spring Bars: This design further improves this hitch’s ground clearance.
• Sway Control Function: Automatically disengages on tight turns to make it easier to navigate.
• Adaptability: The sway control can also be completed turned off for better control in icy or otherwise dangerous road conditions.
• Price: This is definitely not the cheapest hitch on our list.
• Pin Design: Some users reported issues removing pins to re-position frame brackets after initial installation.

7. Best Anti-Sway and Anti-Bounce: Andersen Hitches 3350 No Sway Weight Distribution Hitch

If you’re looking for a true pioneer in the weight distribution hitch industry, check out the first-in-its-industry features of the Andersen Hitches 3350.

This Andersen hitch is the first to include both anti-sway features and a motion dampening system that keeps your trailer from bouncing up and down at higher speeds. 

The sway control functionality of this model is self-adjusting. This means it won’t lock you up on tight turns or when you’re navigating into a tricky campsite.

You’ll also be able to back your trailer up with this hitch still attached. So it can allow for more efficient trailer travel when compared to some other hitches. 

The hitch ball that comes with this unit is 2 and 5/16ths of an inch in diameter.

It can actually double as a standard hitch ball if you ever need to tow anything without concern for weight distribution.

The hitch bar itself fits a two or 2.5-inch receiver and secures in place with a single pin. This guarantees easy installation and removal as needed. 

This model has a maximum drop and rise of four inches, but you can purchase an eight-inch adjustable rack if you need additional drop or rise.

You also won’t need to worry about lubricating the ball and coupler regularly. They move as one as part of Andersen’s unique grease-free system. 

The Andersen Hitches 3350 has a maximum tongue weight rating of 1,400 pounds and a maximum gross weight rating of 14,000 pounds when installed with the standard two-inch rack.

But it can actually handle a gross weight up to 16,000 pounds when installed with the 2.5-inch rack.

• Better Control: This is the first hitch of its kind to reduce both trailer sway and trailer bounce.
• Frame Bracket Adaptability: Brackets adjust to fit 3”, 4”, 5”, and 6” trailer frames.
• Grease-Free System: The ball and coupler actually move as one unit so no extra lubrication is required.
• Easy Installation: No pry bars needed!
• No Spring Bars: It relies, instead, on chains that can produce more noise on the road.
• Customer Service: Some users have reported trouble getting in touch with Andersen customer service.

8. Best Lightweight: Fastway 10K RB Fastway e2 2-point Sway Control Distribution Hitch

The most lightweight round bar hitch on our list is the Fastway 10K RB e2 hitch.

It weighs a total of just 33 pounds, which is lighter than the nearest competitor by a wide margin.

This lighter weight makes the hitch and accompanying spring bars much easier to install and remove as a single person, whereas others might require at least two people for easier installation. 

Despite its lightweight design, the rigid steel brackets on this unit mount directly to your trailer frame to prevent sway.

They do so by creating steel-on-steel friction and consistently applying pressure inward.

The sway control on this hitch is also completely built-in, which means you won’t have to install or connect any additional parts or hardware. 

The hitch is designed to be back-up friendly, which means you won’t have to disconnect it every time you need to back into a new campsite. This can be an issue with other hitches, but not with the e2. 

It also has the added advantage of being very adaptable ot many trailer types because the brackets are easily installed around gas tanks and battery boxes that are sometimes mounted on the trailer tongue. 

The Fastway 10K RB e2 has a maximum tongue weight rating of 1,000 pounds and a maximum gross weight rating of 10,000 pounds.

The Fastway e2 hitch is also available in at trunnion-style if you require additional ground clearance. Or you can pop back up and check out the ReCurve R6.

• Product Weight: This distribution hitch weighs just 33 pounds.
• Built-in Sway Control: Keeps your trailer in line in without requiring any add-ons.
• Rigid Brackets: Create steel-on-steel friction to prevent sway.
• 10 Year Warranty: Covers repairs or replacements on most parts and components.
• No Hitch Ball Included: This unit works with a 2 and 5/16ths of an inch ball, but it doesn’t come with one.

How To Pick The Perfect Weight Distribution Hitch?

The right hitch for your situation will largely depend on compatibility with both your RV and your towed vehicle.

In this Buying Guide, we’ll cover the main factors that will help you determine whether a certain hitch will work for your RV-vehicle combination.

Types of Weight Distribution Hitches

There are three main types of weight distribution hitches. We’ve included at least one of each in our reviews above, so it’s important that we take some time to understand a little more about each type. 

Round Bar Hitches

This type of hitch features round sway bars that attach to the bottom of the trailer ball mount. Their main advantage is compatibility with many different vehicle-trailer combinations.

But they have less ground clearance than other hitch types, so potholes or bumps can present problems. 

Trunnion-Style Hitches

Trunnion-style hitches have much more ground clearance than a round bar or Andersen hitch.

The sway bars on this style of hitch also don’t require clips, but the downside of this hitch type is that it can be difficult to adjust the height of the hitch head. 

Andersen Hitches

Andersen hitches completely ditch solid sways bars in favor of chains and dampers.

This hitch design does very well to reduce both swaying and bouncing, which is nice if you frequent rough roads or like to take your trailer off-road. 

Gross Trailer Weight

The gross weight of your trailer includes the factory weight as well as the weight of any additional cargo or modifications.

Many new trailer owners forget to take these additional weights into account when they purchase a new hitch system, which can result in buying a hitch that isn’t rated highly enough. 

To put it very simply, you need a weight distribution hitch that’s rated for more weight than the total weight of your trailer and all of its cargo.

If your trailer is too heavy for the hitch, it won’t be capable of properly distributing the weight. It will essentially be rendered useless and your trailer will still be more likely to sway or bounce. 

Tongue Weight

Tongue weight is the percentage of the load that rests directly on the hitch. It is actually a combination of the weights of the front end of your trailer and the back end of your towing vehicle.

As a general rule of thumb, the tongue weight is typically about 10 to 15 percent of the gross trailer weight. 

You should always choose a hitch that’s rated to handle more than the actual tongue weight of your trailer-vehicle combination.

If you can’t perfectly calculate the exact weights of the front end of your trailer and the back end of your towing vehicle, using the 10 to 15 percent rule of thumb is a great way to determine how much tongue weight your ideal weight distribution should be rated to handle. 

Installation Process

Some hitches are much easier to install than others. But all of them will require a little bit of time and effort.

When selecting a weight distribution hitch, make sure to choose one with a relatively simple install process.

It should also come with a clear instruction manual that’s written precisely in the language you’re most comfortable with. 

Most manuals should provide instructions in multiple languages, but this is indeed something to check on before buying.

And one great way to do that is by reading into user reviews of the specific hitches you’re interested in. 

If you can find a hitch that users are continuously reporting to be easy to install, you can rest assured that your own process won’t become a tedious headache.

In general, the installation process for these hitches shouldn’t take more than one hour.

If you’re finding reviews that state it took multiple hours to install a certain hitch, you might be well served avoiding that product. 

But you always need to be careful not to judge a hitch based on a single user review. Look for patterns and identify the experience that the majority of users are reporting.

A weight distribution hitch with a simple installation process should require between 30 minutes and one hour to set in place properly. 

Types Of Sway Control

Almost all weight distribution hitches have some form of sway control. But the way they work can be drastically different.

One type of sway control is designed to reduce sway once it has begun. The other is designed to prevent swaying from starting in the first place. We’ll go over each type in more detail. 

Sway Controls To Reduce Sway

Hitches that serve this purpose either rely on independent friction sway control or dependent sway control.

Independent friction control devices on weight distribution hitches typically look like a bar that attaches to the frame of your trailer. 

Because the bar is attached to both the hitch and your trailer, it can provide tension to keep your trailer straighter behind your vehicle.

The bar is usually telescoping so that it can extend or retract as your trailer moves.

If your trailer starts to move out of line, the friction pads within the telescoping arm of the bar keep it from extending too far, which cuts down the side-to-side movement of your trailer. 

Dependent sway controls are actually built right into a weight distribution hitch.

When your trailer begins to swing, the downward force created by the hitch’s spring bars creates frictional resistance on the brackets connected to your trailer frame. 

Some dependent sway control devices rely on steel-to-steel resistance. Others include a material that is similar to the brake pads on a vehicle.

Either way, the resistance created is designed to keep your trailer in a straight line.  

Sway Controls To Prevent Sway From Starting

There are various types of weight distribution hitches with sway controls designed to prevent sway from beginning in the first place.

One such device relies on sliding devices called ‘cams.’ These ‘cams’ suspend the spring bars and lock into position. 

With one end of the cam aligned to the lift bracket and the other to your trailer frame, the springs bars are set in place. This placement of the spring bars is what keeps your trailer aligned. 

Some hitches have four points of sway control built-in. This entails a secure connection between the hitch head and the spring bars.

Through these connections, the spring bars are held tightly in place and the amount of tension and resistance in the system is enough to keep your trailer in line. 

Still other hitches rely solely on tension to keep the spring bars tightly in place. And there are also systems with active sway control that rely on spring-loaded ball bearings.

These bearings apply pressure inside the detents in order to keep the trailer straight. 

Product Weight

The weight of the weight distribution hitch you choose should be taken into account when you’re making sure that the total weight you’re hauling doesn’t exceed your vehicle’s specifications.

While these hitches help to more evenly distribute the weight of your trailer and rear axle of your tow vehicle, they can’t actually increase the maximum towing capacity of your vehicle. 

But the weight of the hitch you choose also comes into play when you have to install or remove it.

Most of these hitches weight at least 100 pounds, but some are considerably heavier while others are noticeably lighter.

Simply make sure that you’re comfortable handling the weight of the hitch you choose when it comes to installing it between your tow vehicle and your trailer. 

Pre-Installed Components

The best weight distribution hitch models come ready-to-use right out of the box. They include all of the pre-installed components necessary for easy installation and safe operation.

Many also include a package of clips and pins to secure the hitch bar, brackets, and other elements in place. 

But other hitches don’t come with everything you need to start using them immediately. Some don’t include a hitch ball and you’ll have to buy that separately.

Others might require additional hardware to be compatible with your specific trailer-vehicle combination. 

If this becomes the case for you, you’ll have to incur an added expense to make the hitch you’ve already bought work with your trailer. And that’s not always the easiest task to complete. 

So we recommend looking for a hitch that comes with pre-installed components.

Taking this route will also reduce the likelihood that anything happens during the installation process that causes the entire weight distribution system to be dangerous or ineffective. 

As you might expect, these hitches are subject to the elements. Roadways can be harsh environments for any exterior components of your trailer and vehicle, but your hitch rests firmly in between the two.

And this positioning can place even more stress on the hitch and its components. That’s why you need to consider the durability of a given hitch in your buying process. 

The most durable hitches on the market include a powder-coated finish to whatever metal is used in their construction.

This powder coating provides an added degree of corrosion-resistance that extends the longevity of your hitch and its components. 

If you live or frequently travel to locations close to the ocean, you probably already know the effect that salt in the air can have on metal parts.

So a hitch with a powder-coated finish is essential for these areas. 

But the durability of a weight distribution hitch extends a little bit beyond whether or not it has a corrosion-resistant finish.

The quality of the metal used in the hitch’s construction also comes into play. 

Perhaps the easiest way to ensure that your final hitch choice is going to last is to consult a host of consumer reviews.

You can be confident that any product with a durability issue is going to have plenty of reviews in which that issue is well documented. 

Again, be careful to trust the “law of averages” when it comes to consulting these reviews.

But they can still be a very helpful tool in determining whether or not a hitch will actually hold up as well as its manufacturer claims.

How much does a weight distribution hitch cost?

When it really comes down to making a final decision on a hitch, we know that its price is going to come into play. And we recognize that these hitch systems aren’t always super affordable. 

But we also think it’s important to point out that what we’re really talking about here is an investment into your personal safety, your family’s safety, and the safety of the investments you’ve made in your trailer and your tow vehicle. 

We know that some of those things are hard to put a price on, and there are ways to reduce trailer sway without purchasing a weight distribution hitch.

But the best ways to ensure safer towing are to purchase a quality weight distribution hitch and apply some of those safe driving techniques. 

In the process of setting your budget for a weight distribution hitch, it’s good to get a sense of the high and low ends of the market.

This will give you a range in which most hitches will fall, and then you can more easily decide which end of that range you’d like to select from.  

So, What is the Best Weight Distribution Hitch for 2020?

As we stated in our initial reviews, we stand by the Blue Ox BXW1000 as the best overall weight distribution hitch.

It gets our vote here because it’s super user-friendly if you’re new to the world of towing a trailer.

The latches that attach to your trailer frame don’t require any additional hardware and the entire hitch can be installed or removed in just a few minutes. 

But, coming in a close second, we’d also highly recommend the Camco Eaz-Lift ReCurve R6 hitch.

This is because it offers more ground clearance than the majority of weight distribution hitches on the market.

This extra clearance will definitely come in handy if you like to travel off the beaten path. 

Frequently Asked Questions About WDH

While these hitches aren’t overly complicated, there’s still quite a bit to learn if you’re buying your first one.

So let’s briefly address the most frequently asked questions about weight distribution hitches. 

What size hitch do I need?

The main factor that will determine your hitch size is the weight of your trailer (or towed vehicle).

A hitch’s size is usually determined using two ratings: one for maximum gross trailer weight and the other for maximum tongue weight.

These two ratings are very commonly advertised when you’re shopping for weight distribution hitches.

If it’s hard to find these ratings for a particular model, that’s an automatic red flag. 

To pick the right size hitch for you, make sure that these ratings are both higher than the gross weight of your trailer and its tongue weight.

These weights should be relatively easy to find in the specifications for your trailer, whether that’s online or in the owner’s manual. 

But you should also be careful not to choose a hitch that’s rated too high. If your actual tongue weight is much less than what your hitch is rated for, it can actually make towing unpredictable and more dangerous.

On the other hand, a hitch that’s rated for less than the actual tongue weight of your trailer won’t be able to adequately distribute the load and, in that case, there’s not much point in having it. 

How does weight distribution really work?

These hitches work by distributing weight away from the tongue of your trailer and onto the other axles of your vehicle.

Without weight distribution, all of the weight of your trailer gets concentrated on the rear axles of your towing vehicle. 

With weight distribution, that weight gets spread to the front axle of your towing vehicle and the axles of your trailer itself.

This effect becomes really helpful for not exceeding the gross vehicle axle weight limit of your towing vehicle.

As a general rule-of-thumb, you should consider a weight distribution hitch if the weight of your trailer is more than half of the weight of your towing vehicle. 

Can you further explain sway control?

Sure! Breaking it down briefly, there are devices that reduce sway once it has begun and others that are designed to prevent sway from starting in the first place.

Most of the best weight distribution hitches have one of these two forms of sway control built-in. 

How do I know how much my vehicle can tow?

It’s important to note that none of these hitches boast the ability to increase the amount of weight that your vehicle can tow.

It safely makes towing a trailer safer and makes your trailer less likely to fishtail or bounce at higher speeds. 

Your vehicle’s rating for the maximum amount of weight it can tow safely and legally should be in your owner’s manual.

Otherwise, you can most likely find the specifications online as long as you know the exact year, make, and model of your vehicle. 

If you can’t find the information online and you’ve misplaced your owner’s manual, you can always call the dealership that you bought your vehicle from.

This, of course, only works if you bought from a dealership and not a private seller.

But going directly to the manufacturer can still be a good way to find your vehicle’s towing specifications if you did purchase from a private party. 

What are the main problems with towing a trailer without a weight distribution hitch?

The two main problems that occur when towing a trailer are called ‘dive’ and ‘sway’. If the tongue weight is too large in comparison to your gross trailer weight, the trailer will ‘dive’.

This basically occurs when there is too much weight placed on the hitch junction between your vehicle and your trailer. 

This excessive weight causes the tongue of the trailer and the rear axle of your tow vehicle to dive down together.

This creates a sort of ‘taco effect’ that will be visible to the naked eye if it’s occurring. The back of your trailer will be noticeably higher than the front once it’s loaded onto your trailer hitch. 

You’ll also be able to see the nose of your tow vehicle visibly higher than the rear bumper. The danger of a ‘dive’ comes when you try to brake quickly.

The added downward force placed on the hitch junction can cause the nose of your tow vehicle to lift up.

This can cause you to lose braking traction and steering control through the front axle of your vehicle. 

The other main problem with towing without a weight distribution system is ‘sway’. It happens when the tongue weight is too low and the back end of your trailer is too heavy.

The excess weight in the rear can cause the tail end of your trailer to swing one way and then forcibly back in the other direction. In mild cases, sway can cause you to lose control of your tow vehicle. 

In more extreme cases, it can actually cause your trailer to flip over and, when this happens, it often takes your tow vehicle with it. 

This poses a serious risk to passengers onboard as well as other drivers on the road.

Are there ways to reduce ‘sway’ without a weight distribution hitch? 

The short answer is yes. But before we get into a few brief recommendations, it’s important to definitively state that we think a weight distribution hitch is the best way to reduce trailer sway.

Our true recommendation would be to use these techniques along with (rather than in place of) one of the best weight distribution hitch options we reviewed above.  

But one good way to reduce sway is to avoid crosswinds. If you keep an eye on the weather forecast and know that heavy winds are expected on your route, it may be best to delay your trip until winds subside.

If you have to travel when winds are high, it’s best to drive significantly slower than normal. 

Another way to reduce sway is to make sure the weight inside your trailer is distributed evenly.

If you have a trailer with a single axle, it’s a good practice to align about 60 percent of the weight in front of, or on, the axle.

This helps to avoid a low tongue weight, but you also need to make sure the load is balanced from side-to-side and everything inside your trailer is secured down adequately so that it doesn’t shift while you’re driving. 

Additionally, the air pressure of your tires can have an impact on trailer sway. Tires that aren’t properly inflated can cause the trailer to sway more than normal, so be sure to check your tire pressure if you’re experiencing irregular sway when towing your trailer. 

Attempting to tow a trailer that is far too long for your towing vehicle is also a surefire way to experience more sway.

For example, towing a trailer with an SUV that’s less than one-third of the trailer’s length is just asking for trouble.

Make sure your trailer-vehicle combination is appropriate to avoid unnecessary towing issues like sway. 

Finally, your driving practices can cause your trailer to sway even if you’ve done everything else right.

Driving too fast and braking too suddenly are two easy ways to cause your trailer to sway. Sudden turns of your steering wheel should also be avoided. 

If your trailer does begin to sway, it’s really important that you don’t try to steer out of it or speed up.

The only good way to reduce sway and regain control of your trailer at this point is to keep the wheel straight and gradually apply your brakes. 

As someone who has moved to a new city in an RV and spent the first several weeks commuting to and from work in that RV, I highly recommend a weight distribution hitch for towing an additional vehicle behind your rig. 

This is an essential RV accessory for full-time RVers or those that like to spend an entire season in their rig.

The ease and convenience of not having to go through the process of prepping your RV to roll every time you need to make a trip into town will make the cost of a weight distribution hitch worth it every single time.

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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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 Travel Trailer Hitches for Your Camper Vehicles

Writen by Tom Hank

Fact checked by Joseph Varney

A receiver hitch for travel trailer helps provide an anchor to secure towed loads. Installing a reliable travel trailer towing hitch can help prevent many on-road vehicle-pulling accidents. But what is the best travel trailer hitch on the market?

Buyers should know that no ‘end-all’ model is classified as the one-and-only best tow hitch. Instead, it is important to take a look and think about the different factors associated with searching for an ideal travel trailer hitch system for specific demands.

Some of the things to consider are:

• Unloaded Vehicle Weight: The weight of the towing vehicle from its manufacturing. This reading does not include the weight of any add-ons after the vehicle’s initial purchase development.
• Trailer Towing Capacity: The maximum towing limit of the pulling trailer’s tongue. The pulled load should not exceed the maximum trailer tongue weight. Otherwise, the hitch may fail and release the towed vehicle, even while on the road.
• Towing components: A standard hitch setup for a travel trailer generally uses the following parts: ball mount, trailer ball, safety cables (or chains), a pin, and clip. A reliable RV hitch kit should come with these components. However, these items might also be available as aftermarket purchases.

Remember that the factors mentioned above are not the only elements to consider when shopping for the right travel trailer towing hitch. Keep reading to gain more insight about these elements in greater detail.

First, here is a look at different yet excellent choices for travel trailer hitches.

Table of Contents

Top 11 Travel Trailer Hitch Reviews

1. eaz lift 48059 weight distribution elite kit.

Although travel trailer hitches usually have prices that can break banks, I was content to see this particular model’s costs to be at a mid-range point. Thankfully, the manufacturer did not sacrifice the durability and strength of this model.

It has a 1,200-lb maximum tongue weight with a maximum gross trailer weight rating of 12,000 lbs. I find it surprising that this weight distribution hitch kit can achieve such a feat while maintaining a relatively compact design. That reasonably small frame also made it convenient during removal and storage.

Moreover, the high-quality engineering on the steel construction made this hitch more rugged than other options, especially when compared to the low-quality units I tried.

I would also like to mention that this steel build is a top-notch chrome-molybdenum-grade variant. It means that this kit’s construction can withstand high heat without the significant risk of breaking. It also means that it ensures passengers in the towed motorhome or trailer experience a stable and comfortable ride.

The next feature I adored is the built-in U-bolts. Coupled with the safety chains, I am relieved that this kit has the necessary hardware for a proper and safe installation.

• The mid-range price tag should fit many budget allowances
• Tongue weight capacity and Gross trailer weight rating limit are fairly high
• High-quality chrome-molybdenum-grade steel construction
• Built-in U-bolts enhances convenience and safety during and after installation
• May not be compatible with some travel trailers without modifications

2. Husky 32218 Center Line TS Hitch

While other trailer hitches only provide secure couplings between towing and towed vehicles, this Husky Center Line TS with spring bars brings weight distribution and built-in sway control in one device.

Furthermore, just about everything I needed for the installation to work is in the kit. In turn, it did not require me to spend time going back to the store.

I also like to mention that this hitch maintained a secure connection after many trips. I tested it for about 17 days while making 26 total camping and road trips. This model performed as intended. I would even go as far as to say it provided me with flying colors for its overall performance.

Initial installation was also a breeze. It took me less than an hour to install it to a 2015 Ford Expedition. But additional testing presented me with some problems with certain towing vehicles possessing uniquely designed pulling tongues. Modifying the kit slightly solved this concern.

• Weight distribution and anti-sway control in one travel trailer hitch
• Complete hardware included in the kit
• Able to withstand strong winds
• Quiet and secure performance for short- to medium-length trips
• Only takes less than an hour to install
• May creak or squeak during long road trips
• Might not fit some towing tongues well without modifications

3. Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Kit

I can safely say that this Equal-i-zer hitch is one of the top-rated weight distribution hitches I have tried. It presented my camper with many benefits, such as the lack of the need to disconnect or disassemble the hitch assembly when backing up my vehicle.

Moreover, this model is also an anti-sway hitch for camper vehicles. It uses a 4-point stabilizing system to help reduce friction and sway during tows. This model also has linear friction at two points, allowing it to provide similar stability as compared to using an add-on 8-point sway control accessory.

Its stability was also on point, seeing that the friction sway control feature also provided a proper weight distribution across my vehicle’s towing tongue. The result is a more convenient and safe ride, including improved steering and braking.

One shortcoming I noticed is that this kit is not the quietest setup in my books. This hitch setup for travel trailer makes a creaking sound while towing a trailer. Additionally, it is not advisable to lubricate the contact area. Doing so will reduce the anti-sway function, increasing on-road risks of accidents.

• No need to disconnect or disassemble the kit while reversing the vehicle
• A 4-point sway weight distribution hitch that removes most side-to-side motions
• Excellent weight distribution to the towing vehicle’s tongue
• Top-notch compatibility for it can fit many vehicles, including utility trailers
• The immutable creaking sound might be an issue for some users

4. Fastway e2 Weight Distribution Kit

Although the price of this model falls within the average cost of many trailer hitch receivers, it has features that I found to provide me with more value than its overhead. For instance, the traditional spring arms provided my towing setup with an optimal distribution of the weight of both the towing and towed vehicle.

Take note that this setup uses a round bar and a trunnion. The latter component provides towing vehicle users like me with better ground clearance than many other choices on the market.

I also approve that the manufacturer decided to develop a hitch design that does not require disassembly while backing up my vehicle. However, I should mention that this setup that does not require a disconnection should be on a flat surface. Otherwise, attempting it on a steep uphill will still require me to take the system apart.

The install process is also unique as compared to other similar products. I can set this kit up as a front-mounted hitch or connect it to my vehicle’s rear axle. This design also supplies vehicle-pulling options for many users.

Also, this unit has a cohesive anti-sway system. This feature uses friction within the brackets and spring arms to reduce trailer sway from the trailer during tows. It does fairly well in removing unwanted side-to-side motions. But I wish that it does better in eliminating up-and-down movements as well.

• Traditional spring arm design offers optimal weight delivery
• Excellent ground clearance, thanks to a trunnion
• Does not require disassembly when backing up a vehicle on a flat surface
• Can be installed in either the front or back of a towing vehicle
• Anti-sway system efficiently removes side-to-side movements
• 10-year limited warranty
• Might still demand taking the kit apart if the vehicle backs up on a steep hill

5. Andersen Hitches Weight Distribution Hitch

While many hitches with weight-distributing features focus on using the traditional spring bar setup, this Andersen weight distribution hitch revolutionized how these components work. The company removed the conventional spring bar design and created a relatively simpler chain system.

This chain design results in a lighter and quieter towing hitch for campers. In comparison, many other hitches generally weigh more than double what this model has to offer. Its lightweight construction also made it possible to make the install and removal setup easier than others.

Installation is also a reasonably straightforward task, thanks to the detailed instructions. But individuals that wish to purchase this kit should heed my warning: it can be easy to bend the triangle plate and ruin the urethane springs. Therefore, make sure to pay extra care when setting up these parts.

Additionally, I liked that this hitch has two ways to attach and detach from a tow vehicle. First is the use of the provided ¼-in. nut; tightening it will secure the connection, whereas loosening this component undoes the attachment. I can also use an electric trailer tongue jack to do this process faster and with less hassle than before.

• Uses a chain design to make the system lighter and quieter than others
• Straightforward installation, thanks to the detailed instruction manual
• Two options to attach and detach the tow vehicle through this hitch
• Self-lubricating system that does not require extra grease or lubricant
• Requires care not to break some parts during installation

6. CURT 17500 TruTrack Weight Distributing Kit

I find this CURT adjustable RV trailer hitch to be one of the more expensive units on the market. But the bump in its price tag is justifiable because it offers a myriad of functional features. One example is its weight rating.

With a 10,000-lb. maximum tow weight rating, along with a 1,000-lb maximum tongue weight rating, this vehicle’s towing capacity exceeds most of its competitors. However, its compatibility limits this tow vehicle weight rating because this unit only fits 2×2-in. trailer hitch receivers.

Moving forward, another feature that I liked about this weight-distributing hitch kit is its five adjustable locations. With it, I can tow multiple vehicles, provided that the maximum trailer weight of all pulled objects does not exceed the system’s allowable load.

I should also mention that distributing the weight is customizable on this kit. This adjustable hitch has a movable shank. Coupled with spring bars that move 30 to 70 degrees, this model can fit many tow vehicle tongues, as long as they have 2×2-inch receivers.

• Maximum tongue weight rating and tow weight rating exceeds many competitors
• Five adjustable locations for towing multiple vehicles
• Adjustable shank to enhance compatibility and flexibility
• Carbide black powder coating provides weather resistance to the system
• Might not be compatible with hitch receivers that are not 2×2-in. in size

7. Ultra-Fab 35-946403 Travel Trailer Hitch Receiver

The 53-lb weight of this trailer hitch receiver triggered my skepticism. But this lightweight model is a solid performer on and off the road. Its performance can even outshine some of its heavier competitors.

Starting with the installation, it only took less than 2 hours to complete. The installation process could be faster, but I was chatting with my friend at that time. I should mention that some welding might be necessary to enhance the hitch’s stability and strength.

Furthermore, this trailer hitch is a good choice for towing fairly light objects. I tested it on pulling things like generators and bike carriers. However, anything heavier than about 3,000-lbs will compromise this hitch’s structural integrity.

Still, it can be quite difficult to complain about its shortcomings after seeing its price tag. It is one of the least expensive models on the market for a product of its class. I tried searching for even more inexpensive hitches. The outcome of my search is that I mostly found options that are lacking in quality features.

• Lightweight 53-lb. construction without sacrificing overall performance
• Installation is reasonably quick and easy to complete
• Ideal for towing sufficiently light objects, such as generators and bike racks
• Available at an inexpensive price
• Might not be good for towing anything with a weight heavier than 3,000 lbs.
• Some welding might be necessary to achieve a stable finish

8. CURT 17063 Weight Distribution Hitch

Perhaps the most likable aspects of this weight-distributing trailer hitch are its installation and removal. These procedures did not demand a significant amount of time and effort from my experience.

First, I would like to go about the install process; it starts by mounting the ball and plate onto the trailer frame. Then, I secured these parts using the included self-tapping screws. As for the sway control ball, this component came pre-installed, thus cutting the installation time by quite a bit. Finally, attach its bar to the balls and install the clips.

The removal process is also reasonably straightforward. It only required me to unclip the bar. Then, I followed the install process but in reverse. When I found myself getting stuck with the setup, I can consult the detailed instruction manual for help.

This kit also includes a snap-up lever, which provided my tow vehicle with extra leverage. This feature, it adds extra security for the setup’s assembly.

I should also mention that if I had the hitch head at the highest setting, the maximum extended length is going to be 7 in. At that point, it is a reasonable height to give the tow hitch’s tongue extra ground clearance.

Moreover, I like the build quality on this trailer hitch. Its construction has a corrosion-resistant carbide black powder coating that can also protect the system from harsh weather.

• Installation and removal are reasonably quick to complete
• Snap-up lever provides the setup with extra leverage
• Hitch head offers additional clearance at the highest setting
• Superb corrosion-resistant build quality
• Customers may need to buy compatible sockets for the assembly

9. Husky 30849 Weight Distribution Hitch

This weight distribution hitch does not only provide optimal balance and stability to tow and towed vehicles; it is also a workhorse. With a weight rating of 1,200 lbs, and a gross trailer weight of 12,000 lbs., this hitch can help pull many objects without the worry of them detaching in the middle of a road trip.

I would also like to circle back to this kit’s stability because this trait is one of this product’s highlights. Using a 2-point anti-sway mechanism, it manages to even out significant rocks or sways that might otherwise come from pulling a heavy load. The manufacturer also gives the option to buy two more sway control balls for extra stability.

After taking the items from its box, the next step was to install this hitch onto my tow vehicle. The installation was reasonably easy because it only took about three major steps to finish the process. First, I ensured that both vehicles were level. Then, I attached the ball. The final step was to secure the chains.

This kit also shines from its built-in pivoting. I managed to pivot the hitch to about eight inch vertically. That pivot range is generally more than what the typical weight distribution hitch can usually offer.

• Above-average 12,000-lb. gross trailer weight and 1,200-lb. tow weight rating
• 2-point anti-sway system for optimal stability
• Option to purchase additional sway control balls for additional stability
• Fairly easy installation
• Able to pivot with an 8-in. range
• The retainer pin might need to be sturdier

10. CURT 13703 Adjustable Trailer Hitch

I found this adjustable trailer hitch to be quite the contender in the midrange category. It has a 3,500-lb gross trailer weight and a 350-lb tongue weight. It contends well with other similar products in its class with those measurements.

That vehicle pulling prowess resonates with the kit’s durable steel build. I found the construction to have a black powder-coated finish to help prevent the unit from corrosion and rust. This coating also aids in preventing damage to the system from the elements, especially from the sun’s UV rays.

Next, I admire this hitch’s versatility. It can accommodate trailer tongues with widths between 22 and 72 in. At that range, this product’s compatibility is reasonably excellent across the board. It can even work on different frame applications, including box, C channel, and I-beam variants.

I also found out that this particular hitch passes the Detroit engineering facility SAE J684 standards. In turn, I am at peace, knowing that this hitch system supplies me with top-rated performance and longevity.

Moving forward, the installation is also fairly easy to finish. One of my test vehicles for this product is the 2008 Jayco fifth-wheel trailer. Installing this hitch onto that RV was not a laborious ordeal.

• Competitive gross trailer and tongue weight
• Durable steel built with black powder coating is resistant to damage
• Versatile hitch that can fit different applications like a box frame
• Easy to install on many compatible vehicles
• May need to buy the hitch clip, pin and lock to complete the installation

11. PSAUTO Adjustable Trailer Hitch

Although it seems that weight distribution hitches dominate the market heavily, I found this model with a trailer ball hitch design can compete with other similar products. I can safely say that previous statement because of this hitch’s many top-notch features, especially its 20,000-lb tow weight capacity.

With this trailer hitch, a compatible towing vehicle can pull more objects than a typical weight-distributing hitch. It even has a distinct channel-style shank, allowing the setup to appear or disappear for convenient use and storage. Also, this system’s weight limit allowed me to say that there might be no such thing as too much weight for towing.

That durable nature also comes with a weather-resistant construction. I left this hitch outdoors for a while to expose it to the elements. Its build withstood the harshness of rain, sleet, and dirt. Even dirt and road grime were not enough to damage the kit’s rugged parts.

But in case this hitch becomes damaged from natural causes, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty. The manufacturer also offers a money-back guarantee to its customers if this product proves to be defective upon purchase.

• Maximum tow weight capacity of 20,000-lbs.
• Unique channel-style shank allows convenient use and storage
• Weather-resistant construction repels damages from the elements
• Limited lifetime warranty and money-back guarantee
• Might do better in removing sways

Travel Trailer Hitches Buying Guide

Buying a travel trailer tow hitch without taking the time to research can lead to wrong purchasing decisions. Interested buyers should start their shopping journey by looking at a trailer hitch compatibility chart.

After that initial step, think about these factors while shopping for the most favorite trailer hitch on the market:

Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW)

Also known as a travel trailer’s real weight, the UVW represents the weight of the RV with only the load brought by the equipment installed from manufacturing. It does not take into account additional parts like extra hitch accessories.

A tow hitch for travel trailer should support the vehicle’s UVW. Otherwise, installing a mounted hitch with a low lifting capacity can put the trailer’s tongue and the towed vehicle to crash.

Trailer’s Towing Capacity

Trailer owners can find their vehicle’s maximum towing limit by checking their owner’s manuals. If that piece of information is missing, towing vehicle owners can figure out their RVs’ pulling limit by understanding certain elements.

First, it is important to know the different weight ratings of the vehicle. If these details are absent in the owner’s guide, it might be possible to search for the information online. Make sure to use the right key phrases if you need information for specific models, like a bumper pull trailer hitch for a particular vehicle.

Also, the weight ratings required for calculating the towing capacity are:

• Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)
• Gross Trailer Weight Ratings (GTW)
• Tongue Weight (TW)
• Curb Weight

Then, contact the trailer’s maker and give them those numbers. Aside from pulling up information about a travel trailer’s tow capacity from the weight ratings, the manufacturer may also disseminate the correct details about the vehicle’s precise pulling weight limit.

Tow Components

Ideally, the top-tier hitch for towing travel trailer comes as a complete kit. But some manufacturers also offer extra parts for reasonably inexpensive replacements.

A good tow hitch for travel trailer setup usually uses the following parts:

• Ball mount: Often comes with a hitch ball inserted into a trailer hitch receiver and secured with a pin-and-clip assembly.
• Trailer ball: Also called the hitch ball, this component is the attachment point for the trailer and the towing vehicle.
• Tow hitch pin and clip: A small metal bar or rod holding the ball mount and the tube for the hitch receiver.
• Safety cables or chains: Restrains the towed trailer from separating if the coupler or hitch fails.

Additional Features

When looking for the right hitch for travel trailer, it might be tempting to buy a unit with extra functionalities. However, make sure that these add-on items comply with safety regulations.

Some of the relatively common additional features included in some hitches are:

• Extra mirrors: Also called towing mirrors, these pieces of glass allow drivers to gain a better viewing angle than the built-in mirrors on their vehicles.
• Brake control: A feature that connects the towed vehicle’s brakes with the towing automobile’s brake system.
• Rearview camera: Helps drivers avoid obstacles while reversing their towing and towed vehicles.

Another extra feature that many towing vehicle owners often consider is a sway control bar. With it, the trailer can maintain a reasonably straight orientation despite hazards like bad weather or high winds.

What Kind Of Trailer Hitch Do I Need For A Travel Trailer?

Camper trailer towing hitches come in different types. Understanding the distinct features and traits of the various camper trailer hitch types will help buyers purchase the correct model for their specific needs.

A camper hitch can fall under one of the following categories:

• Front mount hitch: An ideal choice for towing travel trailers at their fronts. It has a similar design to a rear-mounted design, but for the front.
• Gooseneck hitch: Mainly designed for pickups only and has an average weight capacity of 30,000 lbs.
• 5th wheel hitch: Similar to a gooseneck hitch kit, a 5th wheel hitch mounts over or at a slightly forward location of the vehicle’s rear axle. But hitches for 5th wheels can often only hold up to 24,000 lbs.
• Bumper hitch: As its name implies, this camper receiver hitch attaches directly to the vehicle’s bumper.
• Pintle hitch: It can be easy to mistake a pintle hitch with a model with a ball mount design because of their designs. But a pintle trailer hitch for camper has a hook with the same name as this hitch category.
• Weight distribution hitch: It is possible to mount a weight distribution system to either the front or rear of the vehicle. As its name dictates, this type of tow hitch distributes the trailer’s tongue weight across the towed trailer and the towing vehicle.

Buyers may use specific keywords like Hensley weight distribution hitch to look at the different models on the market. Precise key phrases can also aid in filtering search results, streamlining the online shopping experience.

Which Is Better Class 2 Or Class 3 Trailer Hitch?

Class 2 and Class 3 trailer hitches supply users with benefits often unique to each travel trailer tow hitch class. The following list is a quick look for some of the relatively common characteristics of Class 2 and Class 3 trailer hitch accessories:

Class 2 Trailer Hitch Receiver

• 350-lb. maximum tongue weight capacity
• 3,500-lb. maximum gross travel trailer weight capacity
• Ideal for hauling a bike rack or a small boat
• Fairly inexpensive

Class 3 Trailer Hitch Receiver

• 800-lb. maximum tongue weight capacity
• 8,000-lb. maximum gross weight rating
• Ideal for pulling medium boats and campers
• Reasonably more expensive than Class 2s

What Is The Strongest Drop Hitch?

A steel drop hitch for travel trailer will generally outperform other hitch accessories, such as those made from aluminum, when talking about durability and maximum weight capacity. With steel, it can provide a sufficiently long serviceable life for its users, thanks to its rigidity.

This sturdiness generally also comes with optimal support. Steel weight distribution hitches work well in flat and uneven terrain, reducing unwanted movements from the trailer’s tongue.

Does Weight Distribution Hitch Help With Sway?

Some weight distribution hitches have sway controls to help reduce side-to-side motions. Certain models may also perform better than others by supplying towing and towed vehicles with up-and-down motion reduction features. In the case your hitch trailer happens to shake and cause an annoying rattle. I recommend owning an anti rattle hitch device. Click here to lean more an article about them.

How Do I Know If My Hitch Is Class 1 Or 2?

Aside from consulting the product’s owner’s manual or asking the manufacturer, figuring out if a towing hitch for a travel trailer is Class 1 or Class 2 is possible by understanding the distinct features of each class.

Here is a quick look at the fairly common traits in Class 1 and Class 2 travel trailer hitches:

Class 1 Travel Trailer Hitch

• Often designed for domestic and foreign passenger cars
• Typically has a gross vehicle weight rating of 2,000 lbs.
• It is generally a small trailer hitch made for towing light-duty trailers

Class 2 Travel Trailer Hitch

• Often designed for passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks
• Generally has a tongue weight capacity of 350 lbs.
• Usually built for towing a boat or camper and mounting a cargo carrier.

Using the best travel trailer hitch presents users with different benefits. Some of these advantages may include (but are not limited to) enhanced durability, stability, and long serviceable life.

It is possible to get the most out of a hitch if buyers choose my suggestion, which is the CURT 17063 Weight Distribution Hitch. This model is easy to install and remove, provides great clearance, leverage and has a top-rated corrosion-resistant construction.

Hi, I am Joseph. Carpe diem! Seize the day! That’s always been my life motto. If you haven’t seen some of the most beautiful places in the country, you are missing out on incredible adventures.

Council Hitch

Load Levelers / Sway Control

_______________________________________________________________

What makes us so good?

Equal-i-zer® offers a unique two-in-one design that combines weight distribution with sway control in one easy to use unit. The simple design has a built-in sway control to help minimize risk of sway problems caused by passing vehicles, cross winds, and other towing hazards. Equal-i-zer® is safe, simple, and easy to use.

Towing a trailer doesn’t need to be a tense and fearful experience. It doesn’t have to be difficult. It doesn’t have to be filled with safety concerns and woes. The right hitch makes all the difference. It can turn a good trailer into a great trailer…and a great experience. Simply put—the Equal-i-zer® is the most affordable and best way to trailer.

The engineering behind the idea

1. Sway Control Brackets:

Rigid trailer attachments work with friction sway control to combat trailer sway. Brackets are height adjustable to control the amount of weight distribution tension on the spring arms.

2. Spring Arms:

The spring arms serve two purposes. When raised onto the sway control brackets they transfer trailer tongue weight evenly to the tow vehicle. They also work with the friction sway control to reduce trailer sway.

3. Downward Pressure:

Downward pressure from trailer tongue increases friction sway control. Trailer hitch ball mounts here.

4. Upward Pressure:

Sway control brackets distribute weight by maintaining upward pressure on spring arms. The amount of pressure on the spring arms is a factor of trailer tongue weight and vehicle suspension. The friction sway control utilizes this pressure to control trailer sway.

5. Friction sway control:

Friction is enhanced by downward pressure from trailer tongue and upward pressure on spring arms. These opposing pressures come together to create an unequaled sway control system.

____________________________________________________________________________________

Load Leveler

Weight-distributing system, a weight-distributing system includes:.

• Hook-up bracket kits
• Spring bars
• Sway control (optional)
• Safety chains
• Pin and clip
• Receiver hitch

Draw-Tite Friction Sway Control

Maximum Rated Capacity: 3,500 lbs. GTW / 300 lbs. TW

• Easy installation
• No complicated adjustments or attachments
• Friction adjustment for different towing situations
• Easy to hook up and remove

For trailers exceeding 26 ft. use two Sway Control units

• RV Parts & Accessories
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• Jacks & Stabilizers

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ANDERSEN HITCHES | RV Accessories | 4-Pack EZ Jack Blocks Leveling System | RV Stabilizer Stands | Heavy Duty Camper Level for RVs | 3621

EZ-Block - 1 Pack

EZ-Block - 2 Pack

EZ-Block - 4 Pack

EZ-Block - 5 Pack

Purchase options and add-ons

• 🛻 [DURABLE]: The Andersen EZ Block is an extremely strong and durable jack block that is perfect for all bumper-tow trailers. It works with scissor jacks, post jacks, pad jacks, and more. Rated at 2, 000 lbs (single or double stacked).
• 🛻[CONVENIENCE]: The blocks feature a recessed post hole that helps prevent post jacks from slipping. The EZ Block is designed to resist dirt and oil. Finger holes on each side for easy moving.
• 🛻[VERSATILITY]: These camper wheel chock stabilizer stands are designed to be stacked to adjust for all terrains. Understanding that you have different needs for trailer tongue support types, and trailer stand capacities. We offer these rv wheel stabilizer leveling blocks in sets of 1, 2, 4, and 5 RV EZ blocks so you'll always have as many as you need.
• 🛻[BUILT IN USA]: As a US-based company, we are here to create premier towing products that improve the journey from point A to point B. That’s why we don’t just make hitches for trailers, we make hitches for people like you--the recreational travelers, hard workers, and avid sportsmen.
• 🛻 [LIFETIME WARRANTY]: Andersen Hitches Plastic Towing Accessories are built to last. If you have any trouble for any reason at all, we will refund or replace this item for you. We hope that you enjoy using our products! These products are 100% made in the USA and come with a LIFETIME WARRANTY!

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LIFETIME WARRANTY

Product Description

The EZ Block from Andersen Hitches is made right here in the USA and comes with a LIFETIME . Like all our plastic products, it's built tough and built to last! FEATURES: - Resists dirt, grime and oil - Lifetime (just pay shipping) - Finger Holes on each side for easy moving - Rated at 2, 000 lbs (single or double stacked) - Dimensions: 12" x 8. 5" base, 8" x 4. 5" pad rest, 8" tall (14" tall when double-stacked) - Recessed post-hole is 2-1/2" diameter - Each block weighs 3. 1 lbs

Product information

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Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the sturdiness, quality, weight and ease of storage of the auto accessory. For example, they mention it's a solid reinforced plastic, works great and is fairly light. They appreciate the ease of use and say it'll make setting up more easier. That said, opinions are mixed on the value.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers are satisfied with the sturdiness of the auto accessory. They mention that it's well-made, sturdy, and provides stability and additional height for their travel trailer. The material is thick and sturdy, making it a quality piece. Some say that the blocks are perfect to keep their stabilizer jack from over extending.

" Sturdy and light weight. Holds my trailer's 1000 pound tongue weight without complaint and is much lighter/cleaner than a stack of wood blocks." Read more

"...It also helps the trailers stability because you don’t have to lower the jacks as far as if you had wood/plastic boards on the ground!..." Read more

" Very solid . We use them for our little camper." Read more

"...Light weight, but built tough . Very much worth the cost." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the stabilizer blocks. They mention that they are durable, effective, and have a nice construction. Some say that the product is good for a specific purpose and works well for their uses.

"...They are very sturdy and work great on scissor jack’s on camper" Read more

"...Bought four of these blocks and they are fantastic ...." Read more

"... They work nicely and made set up much quicker and easier...." Read more

"I had purchased 4 for my stabilizer jacks and they worked great ...." Read more

Customers find the weight of the blocks to be fairly light, sturdy, and durable. They also say it's easy to carry, and that it'll do the job. Some mention that the blocks are lightweight wide enough to have great stability. Overall, most are happy with the weight and durability of the product.

"Sturdy and light weight . Holds my trailer's 1000 pound tongue weight without complaint and is much lighter/cleaner than a stack of wood blocks." Read more

"We love this product! It is very strong and lightweight and easy to store in our camper storage...." Read more

"... Light weight , but built tough. Very much worth the cost." Read more

" Light and easy to use" Read more

Customers like the ease of storage of the auto accessory. They say the blocks are just the right size, sturdy, and lightweight. They also say the accompanying bag does not take up much space. Customers also mention that the blocks nest together to make a fairly compact stack. They are a perfect fit and give a solid footprint in all types of soil. They love that they are 8" tall and they are stackable.

"...It is very strong and lightweight and easy to store in our camper storage ...." Read more

"...The blocks nest together to make a fairly compact stack , and they are lighter than wood...." Read more

"I like the stability and additional height they give my camper." Read more

"...Super strong, just a pain to store , they don’t stack too small. I’ve used it a dozen times and still looks new, I’ll buy again if I ever lose these." Read more

Customers find the auto accessory easy to use. They mention it's simple, convenient, and makes setting up more easier. Some say the finger holes make it easier to handle. Overall, most are happy with the product's ease of use and durability.

"Light and easy to use " Read more

"...less than halfway which I hope will prolong their life, saves time with setup too ...." Read more

"...They work nicely and made set up much quicker and easier ...." Read more

" Easier to use than wood blocks . Quality piece." Read more

Customers like the finger holes in the auto accessory. They say the resesed hole is perfect for a 2 1/4 inch or smaller tire.

"...I also like the finger holes which make it handy to hold them in place while you run the jack down." Read more

"...There are finger holes which provide ease in moving them from one location to another...." Read more

"...large square footprint which makes it very stable and the resessed hole is perfect for a 2 1/4 inch or smaller jack post." Read more

"Lightweight but well made. Nice finger holes for one handed carry . Height is perfect for travel trailer hitch." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the value of the auto accessory. Some find it well worth the price, while others say it's pricey but will last the life of the RV.

"... Great buy and great price!!!!" Read more

"...Light weight, but built tough. Very much worth the cost ." Read more

"I've been wanting these since I bought my camper. They are so expensive but I got tired of hauling around blocks...." Read more

"These blocks are fantastic and a great deal " Read more

Customers are mixed about the stackability of the auto accessory. Some mention that it's nice and heavy duty and can be stored in the, while others say that it doesn't stack in a way that saves much in the way of storage.

"...The benefit of using the orange blocks is that they stack nicely and can be stored in the accompanying bag, which does not take up much space...." Read more

" Love the stackability and easy to use. Can't wait to take all the wood blocks previously used and toss away." Read more

"... They don't stack well so they take up a lot of storage space." Read more

"Love that these are 8" tall and they are stackable ." Read more

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