Comparison of Weight Distribution Systems That Do and Do Not Allow Backing Up

Question:

Wondering what it means in the description when it says does not allow backing on your weight distrubution hitches. Interested in a couple of your items but not sure what that means. Thanks!

asked by: Allen K

Expert Reply:

Some weight distribution (WD) systems do not allow you to back up the trailer with their friction control bars connected; these simply require you to first release the sway control. Other systems that use different methods for sway control do allow you to back up the trailer without having to do this.

As examples, Pro Series system # 49570 does NOT allow backing up when you add the friction sway control # 83660 while Reese Strait-Line system # RP66083 does.

The key to choosing a WD system is to know your setup's fully loaded ready-to-tow effective tongue weight (TW). This will allow you to choose a system that is stiff enough to move some trailer TW forward onto the front axle without being so stiff that it creates weird handling from the trailer. The linked article explains how to determine this; and we offer a dedicated scale from etrailer # e99044 to make this easier. An article with general WD information is also included for you.

expert reply by: Adam R