Using Weight Distribution Shank to Place Trailer Ball at Correct Height for Vintage HiLo Trailer
Question:
Im considering putting a weight distribution hitch on my trailer. The problem I have found is, all that I have found are too tall for use on my trailer. Its a vintage HiLo, and was built to sit low. It has surge brakes, and when sitting level the distance from the center of the coupler ball socket to the ground is 11-1/2. the distance from the bottom of the frame to the ground is 10-1/2. I looked at a Curt 17330, but the assembly is too tall, at 7.3. That gives me two inches ground clearance. Do you have a hitch meant for such a low slung set-up?
asked by: Ron
Expert Reply:
By the phrase 'too tall for my trailer' I'm assuming you mean that the weight distributing shank won't place the trailer ball low enough for the trailer to be towed level (if not, please email me back and clarify).
There are weight distribution shanks available that should allow you to place the trailer ball at the perfect height for your trailer. To determine how much drop you'll need, measure the distance from the inside top of the hitch receiver on the vehicle to the ground. Then measure the distance between the ground and the underside of the trailer coupler. The difference between those two measurements will represent the approximate drop that your weight distribution shank should have.
If you click the provided link, you can see the different weight distribution shanks we offer.
As a final note, a chain suspended weight distribution system like the # C17330 can interfere with the operation of your surge brake coupler. I'd recommend a system like the Equal-I-zer # EQ37061ET which is compatible with surge brakes.
Products Referenced in This Question
Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution w/ 4-Point Sway Control - No Shank - 6,000 lbs GTW, 600 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Shank Not Included
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 400 lbs
- 500 lbs
- Equal-i-zer
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Can The Shank From One Weight Distribution System be Used on Another System
- Q&A: Recommended 2-5/16-Inch Hitch Ball for Use with Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System EQ37060ET
- Q&A: What's Needed to Attach Hitch Ball of Equal-i-zer to Head of System
- Shop: Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution w/ 4-Point Sway Control - No Shank - 6,000 lbs GTW, 600 lbs TW
- Shop: 2-5/16" Hitch Ball for Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Systems - 10,000 lbs
- Shop: Rear View Safety Universal Backup Camera System - 7" Mirror Monitor
- Shop: RV Camera
- Shop: Tekonsha Custom Wiring Adapter for Trailer Brake Controllers - Dual Plug In
- Shop: Ultra-Fab Hitch Mounted Skid Wheels for RVs up to 30' Long - 4" Diameter - Qty 2
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Search Results: hitch
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Shop: etrailer Hitch Pin Alignment Collar for Hitch Accessories - 2" Hitches
- Video: Choosing the Right Trailer Wiring
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Search Results: 90160
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Video: Choosing the Right Brake Controller
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Video: B&W Continuum Weight Distribution System Review
- Article: My Trailer Hitch Doesn't Fit
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Search Results: weight distribution hitch
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Video: Review of Reese Weight Distribution Hitch - 6K WD With Sway Control - RE34FR
- Shop: Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
on Weight Distribution Hitch
