Availability of Longer Weight Distribution Shank so Tailgate Can Fully Open
Question:
just to make sure Im correct i wanted to ask, i have a 2018 f250 with 2 1/2 hitch my weight distribution hitch is a equalizer 10k 2 inch shank, now Im using the stock ford adapter sleeve. My travel trailer weights around 7k i need more clearance to be able to lower my tailgate with the trailer hooked up. after reading other questions and reviews i believe this will work. I would rather buy another shank but equalizer doesnt make a 2 1/2 extended that i know of and this seems to be a less expensive way. any recommendations thanks
asked by: Matt
Expert Reply:
Using the # HR26 with a weight distribution kit isn't recommended because the extender will lower the hitch tongue weight capacity by one third, so I wouldn't advise using an extender. A weight distribution system exerts huge amounts of leverage to raise the front and lower the front of the tow vehicle. An extender would provide a weak link in the chain that could lead to an unsafe situation.
You didn't mention how much additional length you need or the specific drop you needed, but the good news is that the adjustment hole spacing in the shanks are pretty universal. The adjustment holes in the Equal-I-zer shanks are 1-1/4 inches apart on center, which is typical.
Reese offers a longer 2-1/2 x 2-1/2 inch shank, the # RP54976 measures 11.75 inches in length between the hitch pin hole and the center of the adjustment holes, where the Equal-I-zer shanks have a distance of 8 inches. The shank provides a drop of up to 1-1/2 inches.
According to Equal-I-zer, you could continue using a 2 inch shank with the adapter sleeve but get a longer shank. Equal-I-zer offers the # EQ90-02-4600 with a 4 inch drop and a center to center hitch pin hole to middle of adjustment hole distance of 14 inches, which could give you the clearance you're needing.
Products Referenced in This Question
Equal-i-zer Weight Dist Shank - 18" Long - 8" Rise, 4" Drop - 600 to 1,400 lbs TW
- Accessories and Parts
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- Shanks
- 1600 lbs TW
- 16000 lbs GTW
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Equal-i-zer
- Square - 4 Inch Drop
- Square - 8 Inch Rise
- Equal-i-zer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Brophy Hitch Reducer and Extender - 2-1/2" to 2" Trailer Hitch - 7" Long
- Hitch Adapters
- Hitch Extender
- Hitch Reducer
- Bike Racks
- Cargo Carriers
- Hitch Mounted Accessories
- Trailers
- 7 Inch Extension
- Fits 2-1/2 Inch Hitch
- 2-1/2 Inch to 2 Inch
- 5000 lbs
- Brophy
more information >
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