How To Tell If Weight Distribution Hitch Is Installed Correctly

Question:

2018 Nissan Pathfinder SL with tow package 2021 wolf pup gross weight 3300 lb What are the signs of a bad install

asked by: Dale I

Expert Reply:

The main sign of an improperly installed weight distribution hitch is that the the rear of your 2018 Nissan Pathfinder SL is not back to the same height as it was before your 2021 Forest River Wolf Pup was hooked up.

To verify park your Pathfinder on level ground and measure from the ground to the bottom of the wheel well in both the front and rear of the vehicle. Now go ahead and hook up the trailer and the weight distribution hitch. Once this is done take the same measurements again.

The measurements should be pretty close to the same. If you are getting a 2" plus difference then the weight distribution hitch is either not set correct and will need to be adjusted following the instruction manual that was included with the hitch, or the system is not rated for the tongue weight of your trailer.

Now since you mention bad install, I would also go ahead and check that all of the bolts holding the head assembly to the shank are tight, and the bolts holding the spring arm brackets to the frame are tight. The instruction manual included with the hitch will have all of the torque specs listed.

If you can tell me exactly which weight distribution hitch you have installed on your vehicle I would be happy to go into more detail on specific things to look for.

expert reply by: Samuel C