Choosing A Weight Distribution Hitch Shank And Ball

Question:

Hello! Im about to be a first time trailer owner. I bought an equalizer wd hitch off Amazon before I discovered your site. 90-00-1001, without a shank or ball. I wish I would have waited! So now I need to get a shank and a ball. From reading on your site, I think I need a 2-5/16inch Hitch Ball. Does it need to be the equalizer brand? Is that what you would recommend? Then, can you help me understand how I figure out which size shank to get? I see many on your site. I have a 2019 Toyota 4runner, camper is 4500 lb. Thank you!

asked by: Mike

Helpful Expert Reply:

Well you made a great purchase decision even if it wasn't from us. The Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control # EQ37100ET is one many of our customers have had success with and we recommend often.

In selecting a shank, you don't have match up manufacturers but the big consideration is if you will need rise or drop in your shank. With the many different tow vehicles and trailers out there, it's rare that any vehicle and trailer line up perfectly for towing This is why ball mounts are made in a variety of sizes and come with what's known as rise and drop—to compensate for the height difference between your trailer and vehicle and allow for safe, level towing.

To determine yours, park the trailer and the towing vehicle on level pavement. You then need to measure the distance form the top of the receiver opening to the ground. Then measure the distance from the bottom of the trailer coupler to the ground.

If the towing vehicle receiver height is greater, you need a ball mount with a drop. If the trailer coupler height is greater, use a ball mount with a rise. Included is a Help Article explaining the measurements needed to determine your specific need for rise or drop. If you needed a shank with up to 9" of drop for example, the # EQ90-02-4400 would be an example. If you tow multiple trailers, measure the others to make sure you get one adjustable enough to use with multiple setups.

The 2-5/16" Hitch Ball for Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Systems # EQ91-00-6100 should do the job just fine for you. To mount that ball you will also want the 1-7/8" 12pt Thin Walled Socket # ALL643216.

This should get you started but included are video resources for additional information.