Trailer Will Not Uncouple from Ball on Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System

Question:

I just had a Steadi Flex installed on my 2017 Chev silverado yesterday at the RV World camper store in Ramsey Mn. I was proud to ask for the Steadiflex since reading about it on line. The problem is, when I got home with our New camper, I could not unhook from the trailer. Now my driveway is at a slope, but the ball would not disengage from the trailer. I had to pull the pin from the receiver and drive forward to pull the Receiver out of the truck then pull the ball out of the trailer. The large unit the ball is installed in, hits the front of the trailer frame where the saftey chains are attached and would not let the ball move freely to disengage.. What up?

asked by: Gary S

Expert Reply:

If you are parked on a hill, even a slight hill, and the coupler will not release the ball (any set up, not just with weight distribution) that means it is bound up. Gravity is putting tension on the ball which makes it very difficult to uncouple from the ball. Relieving the tension normally involves moving the tow vehicle and trailer ever so slightly so as to relieve the tension. On a hill though that isn't possible.

The trailer jack can also be used to relieve tension on the ball and on the spring bars. But again if you are on a hill then changing the angle by raising the tow vehicle and trailer with the jack could put more tension on the ball.

Regarding the head, which is the part the ball installs in, I would have to see what you mean with the safety chain attachment to determine the best course of action. If you could email me some pictures that will be a great help.

expert reply by: Michael H