How To Determine a Weight Distribution System to Replace System with Sway Control
Question:
Hello, I have a draw tite 3220 series weight distribution bar and sway control set up. The head and shank are gone. Do you offer a replacement for these bars. Hate to buy a new system over the head and shank.
asked by: Jeff H
Expert Reply:
I do have some solutions for you however I just checked with Draw-Tite, and the heads for your weight distribution system are no longer available.
You said you'd rather not buy a brand new system but without all the pieces to your current one that's going to be your best bet and you can do it fairly inexpensively. Since you already have one, you may already know the weight capacity you need, but if you don't I can help you figure that out.
The main thing you'll need to know when choosing a weight distribution system is the total tongue weight of your fully loaded trailer and vehicle as they will be when you're towing. The tongue weight of your trailer is approximately 10-15 percent of the weight of your loaded trailer. Your total tongue weight will add that number to the amount of weight you have stored in your tow vehicle behind the rear axle.
You will want to choose a system that is rated appropriately based on the total tongue weight figure. If it's not rated high enough, then it won't help you and if it's rated too high it will cause a rough rigid ride.
I recommend replacing your current setup with the Blue Ox 2-Point Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - 6-Hole Shank - 10K GTW, 600 TW # BLU45FR. It has sway control for a much smoother ride and comes with a 2" hitch ball included.
I've attached a couple of help articles about weight distribution and tongue weight you may be interested in as well.
