Can Conical Tooth Washers on Fastway Weight Distribution Kit Be Reused

Question:

Are the conical toothed washers a one time use item? After moving my system to a new tow vehicle, I moved the hitch head and when tightening the shank bolts with a torque wrench, the teeth on the washer smashed before the torque wrench broke. Will this washer need replaced immediately, and what issues could occur from this compromised washer?

asked by: Michael C

Expert Reply:

If the teeth have smashed, you'll want to replace those washers. Fastway doesn't offer them as an individual replacement part, but they are included with the # FA92-02-9600 replacement hardware/service kit. Without washers that get a good bite, you might lose the preload on the bolt, so you'll want to check the torque on them frequently until you can get them replaced.

expert reply by: Mike L