Is it OK for Weight Distribution System Chains to be Installed at an Angle Because of Interference

Question:

Hi i just bought a 2005 26 forest river camper and it came with husky weight distribution hitch. I am in the process of leveling it to my truck but notice the chains are at an angle to the lift brackets and you can not slide them back because of propane braces on trailer is it ok for them to be at angle i could slide them back past braces then they would be at angle other direction any advice would be appreciated

asked by: Ronnie

Expert Reply:

Typically a weight distribution system is going to perform the best and be easier to setup properly if the chains are at a right angle to the trailer frame and the trailer frame is as level as possible when the vehicle and trailer are parked on fairly level ground.

A slight forward or rearward angle to the chains is not typically a problem with the chain style weight distribution systems we carry, see link, but you should check with Husky, just to be sure.

If your chains are at a hard angle, you might want to take a look at a bolt on style chain hanger, part # RP58305 as an alternative to traditional lift brackets, these bolt-on chain hangers provide an attachment point for your weight-distribution spring bar chains without interfering with trailer-frame-mounted items.

To hook the chains up on this type of hanger you will need to use the trailer mounted jack to lift the trailer and the back of the vehicle. Once the trailer and vehicle are high enough to get the proper link in the chain over the chain hanger stud you then lower the vehicle and trailer to apply pressure to the spring bars. This bolt on style chain hanger is acceptable for use with spring bars rated up to 1,400 lbs tongue weight and 14,000 lbs gross trailer weight.

expert reply by: Robert G