Reese Weight Distribution System w Shank - Trunnion Bar - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW
(70 reviews)
Price: $620.28
In Stock
Reese Weight Distribution System w Shank - Trunnion Bar - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW
Item # RP66542
Retail:$932.13
Our Price: $620.28
You Save: $311.85
In Stock
Thank you! Your comment has been submitted successfully. You should be able to view your question/comment here within a few days.
Error submitting comment. Please try again momentarily.
- All Info
- Reviews (70)
- Q & A (0)
- Photos
Reese Weight Distribution Hitch - RP66542
- 1000 lbs
- 1100 lbs
- 700 lbs
- 800 lbs
- 900 lbs
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- WD Only
- Reese
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- No Sway
High-performance system is designed to offer the best in weight distribution with an easy-to-adjust, forged head; a raised ball platform; and flexible, powder coated steel, trunnion spring bars. Adjustable shank included. Hitch ball sold separately.
Features:
- Evenly distributes weight over axles of tow vehicle and trailer for stability and control
- Creates a more level ride for both tow vehicle and trailer
- Trunnion spring bars are hot rolled and tapered for superior strength and flexibility
- Bars flex appropriately over uneven terrain for a controlled, even ride
- Curved ends are designed for use with dual-cam sway control (RP26002 - sold separately)
- Adjustable spring-bar tension - just switch links in lift chains to fine-tune
- Desired tilt is easily achieved with serrated-washer design - no more piling on washer after washer
- Forged, raised ball platform on head eliminates need for raised hitch ball
- Solid steel shank has corrosion-resistant powder coat
- System includes head assembly, adjustable shank, lift brackets, trunnion spring bars, lift chains, pin and clip, and all necessary hardware
- Hitch ball sold separately - requires 1-1/4" diameter shank
Specs:
- Tongue weight: 600 lbs - 1,200 lbs
- Gross towing weight: 12,000 lbs
- Fits: 2" x 2" trailer hitch receivers rated for use with weight-distribution systems
- Lift-bracket positioning: mount about 30" back from hitch ball
- Requires approximately 5-1/2" of space along trailer frame
- Optional mounts (sold separately) that take up less space on a trailer frame are available
- Will not fit trailer frames wider than 2-1/2"
- Requires approximately 5-1/2" of space along trailer frame
- Shank length: 14" from center of hitch pin hole to center of ball hole
- Total height adjustment along shank: 5-1/4"
- Maximum rise: 6-1/2" from top of hitch receiver opening
- Maximum drop: 1-1/4" from top of hitch receiver opening
- Limited lifetime warranty
| Included w/ RP66542 | Required - Sold Separately | Optional Add-Ons |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
Create a stable ride for your tow vehicle and trailer with a weight-distribution hitch. Adding spring bars to your towing system applies leverage, which transfers the load that is pushing down on the rear of your vehicle to all the axles on both your tow vehicle and your trailer, resulting in an even distribution of weight throughout. The result is a smooth, level ride, as well as the ability to tow the maximum capacity of your hitch.
Selecting a Weight-Distribution System
The tongue weight rating is the most important factor in determining which size weight-distribution system you should use. If the bars of the system you choose are rated too high for your setup, they will create a rigid ride, which can result in a bouncing trailer. If, on the other hand, the bars are not rated high enough, the system will be unable to properly distribute the weight, rendering it virtually useless.
To determine the proper weight rating for a weight-distribution system, you must first determine your trailer's tongue weight. Then add to that the weight of the cargo behind the rear axle of your tow vehicle. These two measurements make up the tongue weight rating for a weight-distribution system.
Unique Features of Reese Trunnion-Bar Weight Distribution
The easy-to-use, serrated washers on the Reese system make adjusting the tilt of the weight-distribution head a snap. This is a huge improvement over the standard pin-and-washer method, which involves piling washers - one on top of another - onto a difficult-to-access pin. The serrated-washer system lets you easily loosen, adjust and tighten a single washer and nut on either side of the head for simple, secure positioning.
The trunnion spring bars of this system slide into the weight-distribution head for quick, easy installation. With a tapered design and hot rolled steel construction, these bars offer superior flex, ensuring a smooth, controlled ride for both your tow vehicle and your trailer. In addition, these specially designed bars have rounded, hooked ends, making them the only kind of spring bars that can function with Reese's active-style, dual-cam sway control (sold separately).
66542 Reese Trunnion Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with Hitch Bar
Installation Details
California residents: click here
Customer Satisfaction Score:
97% were satisfied with this product
3% of customers were not satisfied
- Wrong item was ordered
Customer Reviews
Reese Weight Distribution System w Shank - Trunnion Bar - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW - RP66542
Average Customer Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars (70 Customer Reviews)
High-performance system is designed to offer the best in weight distribution with an easy-to-adjust, forged head; a raised ball platform; and flexible, powder coated steel, trunnion spring bars. Adjustable shank included. Hitch ball sold separately.by: James08/02/2023
This worked great. I gained about 2 1/2 inches on the rear lift , both the front and rear wheel well are at 36 1/2 off the ground . what a difference . Trailer is a little higher then level, not much, but with a quick adjustment that can be rectified. Delivery was on time and working with Briana was a pleasure. I emailed all the specs and the correct unit was recommended to me which is the one I purchased.
by: Dave 04/10/2024
I've been looking for this Reese hitch and was having trouble finding at with all the parts, I got all the hardware to make this hitch work and at a lower price. It was delivered to my house 3 days later and Lauren A answered all my questions and took my order, Thank you
by: Larry08/05/2020
Excellent customer service, Steve was knowledgeable and courteous. Fast delivery. Great quality. Adjustable chains work well for varying loads on my 10K car hauler.
by: Daniel 02/06/2024
The folks at etrailer were very helpful on selecting this Reese hitch. Great people there. Thank you for all your help.
by: Bob N.08/17/2013
Excellent delivery speed, unfortunately we had to wait until last week to have the trailer delivered. Used the hitch 3 times and are very pleased with the ease of installation. Enjoyed the heavy duty bar to over center the distribution bar. Used the same trick I used on previous hitches - place a bicycle handlebar grip on one end of the bar - much more comfortable. First time with trunnion bars - I'll never go back to the bent bar type with the snap pins and flexible clips - I've had to replace them several times - a real pain to drill out the rivets and find new ones. Very satisfied with hitch. Pulling a 24' Outdoor RV - "Timber Ridge" - 8000 GVW with 900 lb tongue weight with a Ford F250 Diesel. Pulls like a dream!
by: Steve12/13/2014
I am very happy with the Reese Weight Distribution System that
I purchased from E-Trailer.
Even more... I got exceptional customer serviced from the staff and Technical Experts that I contracted.
I have included some installation tips in the attachments & a photo of what it is all about!
by: ImagineTravelsGD10/21/2020
After our third trip with this hitch it has performed great. This is almost exactly the same hitch that we have had for over 20 years so hopefully we will get 20 plus out of this one. Our only dissatisfaction is that the hold pins are very difficult to insert. As always the service of etrailer has been terrific.
Kimble W.
10/22/2021
After a year of use its still performing great.
by: Mark08/17/2021
One of the nuts supplied to attach chain to trunion bar was not self locking. Otherwise this was bought because I have next larger version for a different trailer and have been pleased with it. The service was great in that the ball I ordered was out of stock and they notified me immediately and suggested an alternative ball that met my needs.
Mark
8/19/2022
Works well. I like the easy adjustability of the chains for different loads as the trailer is used for many different items.
by: Donald09/26/2021
Super hitch easy to set up and install. Easy and very informative instructions. Hooked up took a test drive worked so well I thought this can’t be true. Made an adjustment on the chain link and OMG what a big difference, not for the good though. Went back to the instructed set up perfect. Love it.
by: mark o06/02/2016
We ordered the the weight distribution kit and hitch for a new camper on May 20th. We were going camping on the 26th of may and still had not received confirmation of shipping on the 23rd. My wife called and spoke to Sandy who advised that the online order dept was very backlogged but that she would check into getting it shipped right out for us. We received the hitch on the 25th and were able to get it hooked up and ready to go for the memorial weekend camping trip. Excellent product but more importantly to us was the above and beyond customer service we received.
Mark O.
6/21/2017
Great product!!!Very well built.
by: Scott in AZ09/14/2016
Another great Reese Product.
Installed on a Tundra towing a Flagstaff Tent Trailer with a toy deck. I was having problems with the load sinking my truck and trailer. With the distribution system installed it is now towing very nicely. I had to increase the length of the chain by 1 link due to the way that the hitch on the trailer was built. I would buy and use another one with NO hesitation.
by: Chris V08/08/2017
The product, for how much steel it consists of came to my front door step completely unscathed. The packaging was flawless. After the cursory inspection, I began laying out the parts readying myself for assembly. The instructions were thoughtfully crafted and easy to follow.
Once mounted and setup, I took the trailer for a test pull. My trailer is a 26' enclosed car hauler. I put my wife's car in the trailer (her car is relatively small and probably only ways 2500 lbs give or take) and pulled 5 miles of curvy roads and about 10 miles of freeway. The system is confidence inspiring! I would whole-heartily recommend this product. It arrived quickly mounted easily and inspires confidence. What more could you ask for?
by: Jeff11/10/2017
The hitch is plenty heavy duty and worth the money. Makes a big difference when driving with a heavier trailer when compared to a conventional hitch.
Delivery of the hitch was fast too!!
by: Glen08/27/2015
Great product instructions easy to follow, easy to install. It was a backordered product but came in a week earlier that expected. Packaged well though box was ripped in during shipping, watch out for the shim (optional shim Kit) that comes with the kit, almost threw it out was stuck loose in the bottom of the box.
by: Dave 12/26/2020
Very heavy-duty. Superior quality. etrailer's customer service is outstanding! They agreed to price match, shipped immediately, great communication, excellent follow-up. Love doing business with this company.
by: Ben G.03/20/2018
This has made hauling our trailer a lot easier.
The trailer is a 24 ft enclosed, used mainly for racing.
by: Cliff A.07/28/2016
Appears to be good quality and easy to install - just need some time and don't rush the process. Have only used it once on a short trip and seems to be good. I noticed that the ride seems stiffer than with the curve bar type that I had prior - the bars are bigger and at a different point and do not appear to flex much. Shipping was faster than I expected for a heavier package. I will know how it performs after taking a longer trip.
by: Jay M04/04/2015
purchased this to replace my old load leveler. when I bought a new bunkhouse w/ a tipout the old 8000# wouldn't handle it. it was easy to put together and the hook is a breeze. the price was excellent and delivery was very quick.
by: Dominick 02/02/2022
Great product and quick delivery. I had the same exact hitch for my travel trailer and it served us well.
by: Dave R.09/16/2013
Excellent quality, forged not cast. Quick shipping, knowledgeable sales staff. I would highly recommend e trailer.
by: Susan 09/13/2019
We're first time horse trailer owners and took the recommendation of EquiSpirit as to where to purchase the necessary equipment. We have been very satisfied with your service, your speedy delivery and no delivery charge on the heavy items.
by: Cory Mac01/15/2013
Product appears to be of top quality and is very well built. I am hoping that it will shift more of the weight to the front of the truck and level it out. I will find out this spring when the towing season starts.
by: Kim W.10/11/2012
I ordered a Reese Weight Distribution Hitch from etrailer and it was shipped the same day. It arrived in great shape, I'm very satisfied with my purchase. The online price at etrailer was substantially less than what it would of cost locally.
by: Merle01/24/2018
Very fast service and its just what I was looking for, Thank You
Merle
1/24/2019
Holds a load very well and keeps my truck on track going down the road!
by: Rance P.03/16/2011
Very fast shipping and excellent product. I will definitely do business with etrailer.com again. Thanks.
25
70
Show More Reviews
See what our Experts say about this Reese Weight Distribution Hitch
- Weight Distribution System Recommendation for Towing Multiple TrailersFinding the correct weight distribution system for multiple trailers can be a difficult task because weight distributions systems must be chosen based on the fully loaded tongue weight of the trailer. For your situation, I would recommend Weight Distribution System, # RP66542, that you referenced. This system will be more effective on trailers with heavier tongue weights which is where sway and weight distribution will be more of an issue. One thing that you should keep in mind when using...
view full answer... - Can 2019 Ram 1500 Tow Trailer that Weighs 6,100 lbI looked up the towing capacity of your 2019 Ram 1500 and based on it's very impressive capacities it would easily be able to tow a trailer that weighs 6,100 lbs. A weight distribution system like the part # RP66542 that you referenced wouldn't be a terrible idea though as it would help reduce suspension sag as well as improve handling and braking.
view full answer... - How to Pick Out a Weight Distribution System for a 2012 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing a 7,000 lb CamperThe best way to pick out a weight distribution system is to based on the loaded tongue weight of your setup when it is fully loaded and ready to go. I would recommend loading your trailer up camper like you are going on a trip and then determining the tongue weight. Check out the FAQ article I attached that details how to do this. Most likely the Reese Weight Distribution System # RP66542 would work since it has a tongue weight range that should work well with your setup. I attached an...
view full answer... - Is a GMC Sierra 2500 HD a 3/4 or 1 Ton TruckGreat question! Ford, GM and Ram use a similar nomenclature for their full-size trucks. • For GM and Ram, 1500 is a 1/2 ton, 2500 is a 3/4 ton and 3500 is a 1 ton. • For Ford trucks, the F-150 is a 1/2 ton, the F-250 is a 3/4 ton and the F-350 is a 1 ton truck. You have a 3/4 ton truck.
view full answer... - Weight Distribution System for Towing 7,000 lb TrailerWhen picking out a weight distribution system you'd want to aim for the weight range needed for how your trailer is loaded to the heaviest you'll be at. I recommend a system with a wide range like the Reese Weight Distribution System part # RP66542 which has a range of 600-1,200 lbs which would be ideal for you since you'll have a few different tongue weights depending on how you load it.
view full answer... - Weight Distribution for Trailer Tongue Weight of 1,000 lbsSince your tongue weight is right at 1,000 lbs the Reese Trunnion system part # RP66542 would be a great option with a tongue weight range of 600-1,200 lbs.
view full answer... - Installing the Chain Hangers for the Reese # RP66542 Weight DistributionTypically a Weight Distribution (WD) system will recommend that the brackets for the chain hangers be installed somewhere between 26" - 30" from the hitch ball. Although the instructions for the Reese # RP says differently you can take a guess since the bars are 31-1/4" long. I do recommend setting up the head and the arms first and then using them to determine the placement of the chain hangers. These guidelines can be found on page 3 of the instructions.
view full answer...
- What is the Torque Rating for the Bolts on the Head of Reese Trunnion Bar Weight Distribution 66542The Reese weight distribution system # RP66542 uses 3/4 inch bolts to hold the head to the shank. The instructions, linked for reference, state the torque rating. The instructions that are linked are always going to be the most updated version so even if the manufacturer changes something in them you will still be able to see the latest version using that link. Torque specs are currently on page 2 of the linked instructions.
view full answer... - Do Weight Distribution System Spring Bars get Installed Before Connecting to Trailer BallIt sounds like you may be attempting to install your weight distribution system in the wrong order. You want to set the coupler of the trailer on the hitch ball and attach it before you attach the spring bars of the system to your trailer. Typically people attach the trailer to the hitch ball, and then use the trailer jack to raise the rear of the vehicle high enough that they can attach the spring bars to the trailer, and then lower the jack so that the spring bars are engaged to the...
view full answer... - Are There Replacement Spring Bars Available For An Older Draw-Tite WDS?Since I do not know what weight distribution system you have, I cannot tell you what will/will not fit your system. The newer WDS are branded as Reese, so the odds of there being parts available for your older Draw-Tite system, is unlikely. I recommend upgrading your system with a newer WDS, like the Reese Weight Distribution System w Shank # RP66542. This system has a tongue weight capacity of 600lbs-1,200-lbs, and a gross towing weight of 12,000-lbs.
view full answer... - Weight Distribution Setup Final Measurements RecommendationSince they say to get the final measurements to settle evenly within about a 1/2 inch I would say you are pretty close but could stand to reduce the number of links between the hook and spring bar. I would try taking one more link out and see where that puts you. I attached an FAQ article on weight distribution systems for you to check out also.
view full answer... - Weight Distribution System Recommendation for a 2005 Toyota Sequoia Towing a 4800 lb Travel TrailerThe best way to pick out a weight distribution system is to base it off of the loaded tongue weight of the setup when it is loaded and ready to tow, this figure also includes the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. I attached an FAQ on determining tongue weight for you to check out as well. Typically tongue weight is 10-15 percent of the total trailer weight, so assuming the 4,800 lbs you listed is your loaded weight you are looking at potentially have tongue weight...
view full answer... - Weight Distribution Recommendation for a 2003 Ford Excursion Towing 6720lb Dry Weight TrailerAny time the weight of the trailer exceeds 50 percent of the weight of the tow vehicle a weight distribution system is recommended. When using a weight distribution system with your 2003 Ford Excursion you would have the towing capacities of 12,500 lbs total trailer weight and 1,250 lbs of tongue weight. Based on the dry weights you listed for your trailer you will need a WD system as your vehicle wouldn't have the rating for the trailer without it. The best way to pick out a weight...
view full answer...
- Install Weight Distribution System with Cargo Loaded in both Vehicle and TrailerYou will want to make adjustments to your Reeses Weight Distribution System # RP66542 with both your trailer and GMC Yukon loaded with your cargo. This allows you to only have to level your set up once. If you put your weight distribution system on your set up while both the vehicle and Yukon are empty, you will need to readjust your system once they have both been loaded. I have attached the installation details and an installation video for this weight distribution system for you.
view full answer... - How Can You Tell if a 2015 Silverado Z71 has a Factory Brake Controller?This will indeed be a factory brake controller. The slide lever will be the manual override and the plus and minus buttons will set the level of braking for the trailer brakes. I included a picture of this from the owners manual as well. From what I could find out, this should work with both electric brakes and electric over hydraulic brakes as well. With all that being said, if the controller has never been used, or even if it has, it is a good idea to check to make sure it is functioning...
view full answer...
- Should Weight Distribution Spring Bar Chains be Tight When the System is InstalledOn a weight distribution system that has spring bars hanging from chains, once you engage the spring bars and lower the jack the chains will be tight. It does sound like some adjustments need to be made though since you should have about 5 chain links from the hanger to the spring bar. You should be able to back up without remove the bars on a system like # RP66542 so it does sound like it is either a little too tight and needs to be adjusted or the system is not rated properly for the...
view full answer... - Troubleshooting Vehicle Suspension that Still Sags After Weight Distribution is InstalledIf a vehicle is still sagging in the rear after a weight distribution system has been installed that means that the system either wasn't set up properly with the correct amount of spring bar tension or that the system you are using isn't rated high enough for the tongue weight of the loaded trailer. You should note that any weight behind the rear axle of the vehicle will have to be considered as tongue weight. The best way to pick out a weight distribution system is to base it off of the...
view full answer... - Can Reese Weight Distribution Brackets be Bolted to a Trailer FrameYes, you can bolt on the weight distribution brackets from system # RP66542. They can also be welded on. If you do bolt them on you will need to provide your own hardware; grade 5 or better carriage bolts. Also one important tip I can offer is to make sure the brackets are in exactly the right place before drilling holes.
view full answer... - Solution for Older Reese Weight Distribution System with Lost Spring Bar for 6k TrailerReese got rid of a lot of the older weight distribution replacement parts a few years back when they went and updated most of the lines that they offered so there isn't going to be the replacement parts you are looking for. So it would be best to replace the entire system Bob. A system like the Reese part # RP66542 would work great as it has a tongue weight range of 600-1,200 lbs which should match what your camper has well.
view full answer... - How to Determine the Towing Capacity of a 2019 Jeep Cherokee LimitedFrom what I could find out, the 2019 Jeep Cherokee is limited to 2,000 pounds towing. That being said, to confirm your max capacity, you can look at the inside door jamb of the driver door. There will be a sticker/label with all the capacities the vehicle can handle.
view full answer... - Would Reese Weight Distribution System RP66542 Work on 2016 Dutchmen Aerolite 204ESThe best way to pick out a weight distribution system is to base it off of the loaded tongue weight of the setup when it is loaded and ready to tow. This figure also includes the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. I attached a help article on determining tongue weight for you to check out as well. You will want the loaded tongue weight of your setup to fall right in the middle of the tongue weight range of the system you use. Based on the numbers you listed if...
view full answer... - Can a Weight Distribution System Install onto a Standard Ball MountThe head of a weight distribution system will need to bolt to a weight distribution shank. It would have no way of installing to a standard ball mount. The reason we sell some systems without shanks is for people who need a shank with more drop than the standard shank that comes with the systems, this way they can pick out the amount of rise/drop they need. Since you do not have a shank you will need one to install a WD system. I attached a page that has all of the weight distribution...
view full answer... - How to Pick Out a Weight Distribution System for a 1997 Prowler TrailerIf your trailer weighs more than 50 percent of the total weight of your tow vehicle we recommend the use of a weight distribution system. The best way to pick out a weight distribution system is to base it off of the loaded tongue weight of the setup when it is loaded and ready to tow. This figure also includes the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. I attached an FAQ on determining tongue weight for you to check out. The Reese Weight Distribution System part...
view full answer... - Weight Distribution Installation on a Cadillac Escalade EXT with Auto Leveling SuspensionYou would need to basically just follow the procedure listed in the instructions for whichever weight distribution system you go with. Once you allow the auto-leveling of the vehicle do it's thing you would then just go through the setup procedure as it is outlined in the instructions. Since the procedure is a little different for each WD system and I am not entirely sure which system you have that's as specific as I can be. If you check out the install video I attached for the # RP66542...
view full answer...
Do you have a question about this Weight Distribution Hitch?
Info for this part was:
Test Fit:
Joe V
Expert Research:
Mike L
Expert Research:
Michael H
Expert Research:
Jameson C
Expert Research:
Adam R
Expert Research:
Victoria B
Video by:
Zack K
Written by:
Lindsey S
Updated by:
Kathleen M
Updated by:
Laura H
Updated by:
Wilson B
Updated by:
Alexander C
Updated by:
Amanda M
Updated by:
Mike S
Updated by:
Isabelle B
Video Edited:
Dustin K
Installed by:
Cole B
Installed by:
Hayden R
At etrailer.com we provide the best information available about the products we sell. We take the quality of our information seriously so that you can get the right part the first time. Let us know if anything is missing or if you have any questions.
Larry
9/7/2021
Hitch is working great on my 10,000 lb. car hauler. Have hauled loads ranging from a tractor, loader, and tiller to an SUV with no issues.