Comparing Forged and Welded Weight Distribution Shanks

Question

Question:

I need to purchase a shank for my load distribution hitch. It came with a welded shank, and see there are forged shanks available. Is one better than the other? Thank you.

asked by: Jeff N

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

There are not many differences between a welded and forged weight distribution shank in regards to practicality. They both pass the same DOT standards and meet the maximum 15,000 lb weight capacity requirement. The forged shanks started to become popular to save weight with 2-1/2" hitch applications. I would be willing to bet the receiver tube on your motorhome is a 2" therefore you would be best to just stick with a welded shank. I recommend the Curt Adjustable Weight Distribution Shank part # C17100 as it has a good rise/drop range for a motorhome but have attached a list of other options for you as well.

expert reply by: Conner L

1

Answer 1

You can absolutely trust the manufacturer ratings for the ball mounts we have available, regardless of whether or not they feature a solid or hollow shank. Ball mounts and other towing products are typically tested well beyond their actual listed…

view full answer...

Answer 2

I spoke to a representative from Curt about this lock. It is rated for the weight of Curt's hitch receivers, that weight is 20,000 lbs. The Curt Hitch Lock - 2", 2-1/2", and 3" Hitches - Chrome, part #C23025, would also meet that…

view full answer...

Answer 3

I spoke with my contact at Curt and the Bolt-Together Adjustable Weight Distribution Shank - 12 Inch, #C17100, does take 3/4 inch diameter mounting bolts. The measurement between the bolt holes from center to center is 1-1/4 inches. I have attached a…

view full answer...

Answer 4

The reason why the Curt Adjustable Weight Distribution Shank #C17100 lists the maximum drop at 3 inches is because the maximum measurement in the drop position from the inside top edge of the receiver tip of your hitch to the top of the ball of a…

view full answer...

Answer 5

The Curt Hitch Adapter #C45405 will not reduce the tongue weight of your hitch. Many adapters that extend the length will reduce towing capacity based on tongue weight, but this adapter isn't one of them. It will work fine with the Curt TruTrack…

view full answer...

Answer 6

The best way to pick out a weight distribution system is to base it off of the loaded tongue weight of the setup when it is loaded and ready to tow, this figure also includes the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. I attached…

view full answer...

Answer 7

You are definitely on the right track here. When it comes to weight distribution hitches, it all comes down to your tongue weight. All of these systems will have a range of tongue weights that you want to stay within for them to work effectively. I…

view full answer...

Answer 8

The best practice is honestly to replace tires in pairs. That way they should wear at the same rate and they'll be on the same replacement rotation. This being said, if the tires on that axle were still pretty new (a year or less old) and…

view full answer...

Answer 9

Yes, radial tires are much preferred over bias ply tires for a number of reasons. The main difference between a radial ply and a bias ply tire is how the tire is constructed. The cords inside a bias ply tire run at a 32 degree angle to the direction…

view full answer...

Answer 10

With the SumoSprings Solo Custom Helper Springs #SS45FR on your 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 your ride quality will remain near factory when unloaded. As the springs do not begin to contact the suspension until a load is added you will have the factory…

view full answer...

Answer 11

For your weight distribution system, the rise is due to the shank itself. Most weight distribution shanks are able to be interchanged between manufacturers. For your application, I recommend the Curt Adjustable Weight Distribution Shank - 8"…

view full answer...

Answer 12

Good news, I can help you find a tire for your Sundown Horse Trailer. The 205/90-15 is a close tire size to the 7.00-15. The closest size to a 7.00x15 tire that we offer would be a 225/75-15. One 225/75-15 tire that could work for you is the Kenda…

view full answer...

Comparing Forged and Welded Weight Distribution Shanks

Product Page this Question was Asked From

Featured Help Information

Miscellaneous Media

Continue Researching