Will Longer Shank Reduce Effectiveness of Weight Distribution System
Question:
2012 F150 towing a 7,000 lb GVWR travel trailer with a tongue weight of 980 lbs. I would like to use a longer shank than the stock shank so I can open the tailgate of the tow vehicle while it is attached to the trailer. Will using a shank which is 4inch longer than the stock shank reduce the effectiveness of the weight distribution system I.e. Its ability to transfer weight to the trailer axles and the font axle of the tow vehicle? If so, is there a way to determine how much it will reduce the effectiveness? Thanks
asked by: Chris Q
Expert Reply:
A longer shank for your weight distribution system will not reduce the system's effectiveness so long as you get a shank rated for the correct total tongue weight.
For example the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Shank # EQ90-02-4600 is 18 inches long, offers up to 8 inches of rise or 4 inches of drop and is for total tongue weights between 600 lbs and 1,400 lbs.
This is the longest weight distribution shank we offer and so long as the shank has the correct ratings for tongue weight and rise or drop it will work without detriment to your system. If you need a different length or rise/drop let me know and I will be happy to find the best option for you.
Products Referenced in This Question
Equal-i-zer Weight Dist Shank - 18" Long - 8" Rise, 4" Drop - 600 to 1,400 lbs TW
- Accessories and Parts
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- Shanks
- 1600 lbs TW
- 16000 lbs GTW
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Equal-i-zer
- Square - 4 Inch Drop
- Square - 8 Inch Rise
- Equal-i-zer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 1000 lbs
- 1100 lbs
- Equal-i-zer
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Equal-i-zer Weight Dist Shank - 18" Long - 8" Rise, 4" Drop - 600 to 1,400 lbs TW
- Shop: Equal-i-zer Weight Dist Shank - 18" Long - 7" Rise, 3" Drop - 600 to 1,400 lbs TW
- Shop: Reese Weight Distribution Shank for 2" Hitches - 9 Hole Adjustment - 1,200 lb TW
- Q&A: Can I Tow with the Tailgate Down Using the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Shank EQ90-02-4600
- Q&A: Longer Weight Distribution Shank Recommendation for Clearance to Open Tailgate
- Q&A: Will 18 Long Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Shank Affect Trailer Hitch Weight Rating
- Q&A: Does Longer Weight Distribution Shank Change Ride Quality or Handling Characteristics
- Q&A: How To Tow With the Tailgate Down Using Equal-i-zer System
- Video: Reese Strait-Line Weight Distribution System Review RP66082
- Video: Review of Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Hitch - Shank - EQ90-02-4600
- Shop: Hitch Extender For 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver 14" Long
- Q&A: Can a Hitch Extender be Used With Weight Distribution System
- Q&A: Extended Shank for a Weight Distribution System
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Search Results: 44649
- Video: Choosing the Right Trailer Wiring
- Shop: Dust Cap for Kodiak Disc Brake Kit
- Search Results: 68149
- Shop: Grease Seals 10-36 (pair)
- Video: Lippert Electric Travel Trailer Leveling System Installation - 2018 Forest River Flagstaff V-Lite Tr
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Shop: Cam-Action Lockable Door Latch w/ 36" Pipe for Enclosed Trailers - Zinc Plated Steel
- Search Results: 25580
- Article: 5 Things to Know About Weight Distribution Hitches
- Search Results: dust caps
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Shop: Fifth Wheel Hitch
on Weight Distribution Hitch
