How to Set up a Weight Distribution Hitch? Tow with Stability!

In the past, hitches were used that had no weight distribution feature – making it awful for the drivers to control the trucks due to instability and swaying. Since the weight distribution feature has come, life has become easier. 

But many people don’t know how to set up a weight distribution hitch. But don’t worry as I am going to take you over the step-by-step process of setting up a weight distribution hitch. After reading this guide, you’ll be able to easily install the weight distribution hitch by yourself.

Related Article: Common Trailer Hitch Coupler Problems

Introduction to Weight Distribution Hitch

A weight distribution hitch helps distribute the weight of the trailer evenly across the tow vehicle and the trailer’s axles which ultimately improves the towing and driving. It has become a key component for towing a trailer safely and efficiently.

It not only improves the stability, but also helps in reducing the sway, and allows the driver to drive with control. Although it is slightly more expensive, the slightly higher price worth it as it offers more safety when it comes to hauling heavier trailers.

Important Component of Weight Distribution Hitch

A weight distribution hitch typically consists of the following components:

• Hitch head: This is the part that attaches to the tow vehicle’s hitch receiver. It’s usually a ball mount that holds the weight distribution shank.
• Shank: The shank is part of the hitch head that extends into the weight distribution head assembly.
• Weight distribution head assembly: This is probably the main component of the weight distribution hitch that distributes the weight of the trailer to the tow vehicle’s axles. It typically consists of a head, spring bars, and chains or cables.
• Spring bars: These are the bars that connect the weight distribution head assembly to the hitch head. They distribute the weight of the trailer to the tow vehicle’s axles. It is a sub-component of weight distribution head assembly
• Chains or cables: These are used to connect the spring bars to the weight distribution head assembly.
• Sway control: Some weight distribution hitches come with sway control built-in or are available as an add-on. Sway control helps prevent the trailer from swaying back and forth. Make sure to check if your weight distribution hitch has sway control or not.

Also Read: Top weight distribution hitches for F-150

Things to Do Before Setting up the Weight Distribution Hitch

Before installing a weight distribution hitch, there are two steps that you must follow that are mentioned as follow:

• You should determine the weight of the trailer and the tow vehicle. You’ll need to know the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and the gross trailer weight rating (GTWR) to choose the right weight distribution hitch for your setup.
• Once you have the weight ratings, then make sure to determine the proper tongue weight. Tongue weight is the weight of the trailer’s tongue that rests on the hitch ball. It’s usually between 10% and 15% of the total trailer weight.

The above two steps are very important to follow before you begin installing the weight distribution hitch. The reason is that with the weight ratings and tongue weight in mind, you can now choose the right weight distribution hitch for your setup.

If you don’t know the weight ratings and tongue weight, you will end up choosing the wrong weight distribution hitch that would do more bad than good. You will have to make sure that your chosen weight distribution hitch’s capacity is greater than the weight of the trailer and tongue weight combined.

Step-by-Step Guide: Setting up Weight Distribution Hitch

In the above section, I’ve provided you with all the basic information that you need about the weight distribution hitch. I hope that you are now ready to go into more in-depth information as I am going to take you toward the exact step-by-step process for setting up the hitch.

1- Setting up the Hitch Head on the Tow Vehicle

The first step in installing a weight distribution hitch is to set up the hitch head on the tow vehicle. This usually involves installing the shank into the hitch receiver and securing it with a pin and clip. Make sure the hitch head is level and in the correct position before moving on to the next step.

2- Installing the Spring Bars

Once you’ve set up the hitch head, then the next step is to install the spring bars on the weight distribution head assembly. This usually involves connecting the chains or cables to the spring bars and attaching them to the weight distribution head assembly. Make sure the spring bars are properly aligned and securely fastened before moving on to the next step.

3- Adjusting the Tension on the Spring Bars

The tension on the spring bars needs to be adjusted correctly to ensure the weight of the trailer is distributed evenly. The tension should be adjusted so that the tow vehicle sits level when the trailer is attached. It’s essential to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for proper tension adjustment.

4- Checking the Level of the Tow Vehicle and Trailer

The final step in installing a weight distribution hitch is to check the level of the tow vehicle and trailer. This is essential to ensure that the weight is distributed correctly and that the tow vehicle and trailer are stable while on the road.

The tow vehicle should sit level when the trailer is attached, and the trailer’s axles should be level as well. If the tow vehicle or trailer is not level, readjust the tension on the spring bars until it is.

Proper Use and Guidelines of Weight Distribution Hitch

To ensure the safety and longevity of your weight distribution hitch, it’s essential to use it correctly and maintain it regularly.

• When using a weight distribution hitch, adhere to the weight ratings and tongue weight specifications. Never exceed the weight capacity of the hitch.
• Regular maintenance is also essential for the weight distribution hitch. This includes checking the hitch head, shank, spring bars, and chains or cables for any signs of wear or damage. 
• The hitch head and shank should be lubricated with grease to prevent rust and corrosion. Spring bars should be inspected for any signs of bending or damage and replaced if necessary. Ignoring it can have bad consequences.

How High Should My Weight Distribution Hitch Be?

The height of a weight distribution hitch must be set for a level setup, which can be determined by measuring the height of the trailer’s coupler and the height of the hitch ball on the tow vehicle. 

The height at which a weight distribution hitch should be set is a critical factor for safe towing. When determining the height of a weight distribution hitch, it is essential to keep in mind that the aim is to achieve a level and balanced setup.

A well-balanced setup will help distribute the weight of the trailer evenly between the tow vehicle and the trailer’s axle, promoting stability, control, and safety while towing. 

The height of the hitch should be adjusted by measuring the height of the trailer’s coupler and the height of the hitch ball on the tow vehicle. A hitch set too high or too low can result in poor weight distribution and reduced stability on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

A weight distribution hitch is an essential component for towing a trailer safely and efficiently. But many people don’t have much knowledge about setting it up. In this guide, I’ve gone into complete detail and given you a step-by-step process to ensure that you don’t remain confused anymore. I hope that this guide will be helpful to you.