Weight Distribution Shank with Enough Drop to Level a Trailer with a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500

Question:

When I initially purchased the blue ox it was set up for a 2016 GMC 3/4 ton with 18inch wheels. I have traded trucks to a 2020 chevy 25000HD with 20inch wheels. The 9 inch shank I have is in the lowest position to tow and my trailer is high in the front. Would the 12inch 9 hole shank work to level out my trailer. I thought about a hitch but prefer a solid shank.

asked by: James N

Expert Reply:

If you're looking for a weight distribution shank that will be able to make up for the height difference between your 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and your trailer, then the most important factor is the drop length of the shank.

To determine how much of a drop you need, you have to measure how high your vehicle's hitch and your trailer's coupler are from the ground. Measure to the inside top of the receiver tube on your truck and to the bottom of the coupler on the trailer. The difference between those two will be how much drop (or rise) you need from the shank. I've linked to a help article that you can reference to get the best measurement.

If your current Blue Ox shank with a 9-inch shank length does not go low enough, we have another 9-inch long shank that has a lower drop. It is part # BXW4002. This shank has a drop of 4-12 inches, the same as the 12-inch shank you referenced.

However, if you already have the 9-inch shank with the 4-1/2 inch drop, then upgrading to a 12-inch long shank will not remedy your leveling problem as the 12-inch shank with the lowest drop is 4-1/2 inches as well. In that case, you would need to look outside of Blue Ox. Weight Distribution shanks are interchangeable between brands, so there is no worry there.

I recommend the Curt Shank, part # C17124. It has up to a 9-inch trunnion drop and a 10-inch round drop, giving you more than enough settings to find the perfect balance. I've linked to a video review of this shank for your consideration.
CVS

expert reply by: Kef G