Will Reese Weight Distribution Shank # RP63971 Provide 6-Inches of Drop to Keep Trailer Level

Question:

Hitch bar help! I purchased a new truck and now my hitch bar 54970 does not have enough . i have calculated a 6 inch for my weight distribution hitch. will the 63971 work if you account for suspension squat? If not can you recommend a different hitch bar? Thank

asked by: Bob B

Expert Reply:

You certainly can change the shank for your weight distribution system if the hitch on your new truck is taller than your old one. If you need 6-inches of drop in order to keep your hitched trailer level then the Reese # RP63971 is a great choice. This shank shares the same 1500-lb tongue weight (TW) capacity as your current shank and it will work fine with your Reese WD system.

It is fine for your hitch ball to be up to 1-inch higher than the coupler on the level trailer, before they are hitched, to account for normal vehicle squat from trailer tongue weight.

Just for reference, all of our WD shanks are shown on the included link.

expert reply by: Adam R