How Many Chain Links Are Necessary With Reese Dual Cam Weight Distribution?

Question:

I was always told to leave 5 chain links below the snap up on my WD hitch. This was never an issue until I installed the dual cam sway control. The way it is designed the hanger bracket extends the length from the snap up bracket to the trunnion bar by approximately 3”. No matter how I raise, tilt the hitch itself, there is no way to get the proper tension without leaving either 2 or 3 lengths below the snap up bracket. This brings the bar back up nearly parallel with the trailer frame and levels my tow vehicle perfectly. Are there any other tricks I can try or am I ok?

asked by: Rod V

Expert Reply:

According to the directions, you will not want any less than 4 chain links. With regards to your issue, the first thing that comes to mind is you may not have the properly rated weight distribution system; the correct system is going to be one in which your total tongue weight (the tongue weight of your fully loaded and ready to go trailer plus the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your tow vehicle) falls in the middle of the system's tongue weight capacity. To make sure you have the properly rated system, you will first need to find your trailer's tongue weight with a scale such as # e99044 or by one of the methods in the help article on determining tongue weight I've added for you.

The other thing that may work for you is a shank with more drop; the Curt # C17123 has a maximum drop of 8-1/4" with trunnion bar systems and maximum tongue weight capacity of 1,500 lbs. I've added a link below to our selection of shanks for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Kyle S