Why Won't a Hitch Ball with Built-In Scale Work with a Weight Distribution System

Question:

Looking at the 2 5/16” Weigh Safe hitch ball built in scale and this weight distribution system. Reason being is that I have Ram 4 corner air ride with auto level. The ram will level out after this hitch is installed lifting the rear, transferring additional weight back to the real axel due to taking weight off the spring bars want to see how much it transfers to see if I need to make additional adjustments to the weight distribution system. Would this hitch ball fit with the scale going directly out the back vs sideways? The scale would be between the spring bars. How much weight do u expect to transfer back to the RAM after it levels the rear assuming the weight distribution system levels out the front axel? Is this expensive hitch ball necessary due to the RAM air ride system?

asked by: Jake

Expert Reply:

There are three reasons as to why a hitch ball with a built-in scale like the Weigh Safe 2-5/16" Hitch Ball w/ Built-In Scale part # WSUN-3 will not work in the head of a weight distribution system like the Strait-Line Weight Distribution System w Sway Control part # RP66084.

1. Clearance - The face of the scale on the hitch ball would contact the arms in the head of the weight distribution system while turning no matter the orientation of the scale.

2. Shank Diameter - The hitch ball has a 1" diameter shank and the weight distribution system requires a hitch ball with a 1-1/4" diameter shank.

3. Shank Depth - The hitch ball requires a ball mount with a 3/4" thick platform and the head of the weight distribution system has a platform much larger than this.

In regards to the auto-level air ride system on your Ram, you will want to couple the trailer and let the auto-level system adjust and once the system has adjusted you can then set the spring bars to help further distribute the weight of the trailer.

expert reply by: Conner L