Can A Weight Distribution Hitch Equalizer Be Used On A 2021 Honda Passport Touring AWD?

Question:

Hi am buying a 2021 Honda Passport Touring AWD. Towing capacity is 5000lbs. I have seen lately questions and responses regarding the use of load leveling/equalizing bars. Some answers state dont use load equalizer bars and some do. Answers I have read state that use of load equalizer bars will damage the frame. My Passport will be ordered with the factory installed hitch by Honda. Not using equalizer bars seems counter-intuitive to having a smooth, controlled, level ride. I grew up with my family owning a 16 foot Yellowstone travel trailer towed by a Mercury Grand Marquis station wagon with frame mounted hitch using a Reese hitch and equalizer bars with sway control I know thats years ago, but that is my point of reference :- The setup worked quite well per my dad, but vehicles have changed. The main question seems to be what is best for the frame type the Passport has. My understanding is that the frame is a rigid unibody type frame, not body-on-frame like a truck. Will the use of equalizer bars harm or torque or twist the Passport frame? thus damaging the car? Using a hitch setup with no equalizer bars and placing all of the weight of the trailer on one point, the hitch ball dead weight seems to be too much to me. My plan is to purchase a Lance 1475 travel trailer with a 250 pound hitch weight. Your reply and time is appreciated.

asked by: Joe P

Helpful Expert Reply:

You can absolutely use an equalizer bar, also known as weight distribution hitch, on your 2021 Honda Passport. You will want to check the owner's manual or verify with Honda, but I am showing that your Passport has a towing capacity of 5,000lbs. As long as you have a class 3+ receiver on your vehicle, such as the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # C13421, you will be good to go.

I recommend looking at the Blue Ox TrackPro Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - 7-Hole Shank # BLU36FR as this would be a great fit for your travel trailer with 250lb tongue weight. This is a complete kit, including the shank and ball. If your trailer will have electric brakes then you will want to add a brake controller and 7 way trailer connector. You will want to upgrade your 4 way flat trailer connector to 7 way via Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires # ETBC7. Then add a brake controller such as Curt Echo Wireless Trailer Brake Controller # C51180 which is completely wireless; simply plug it into your 7 way and use your phone as an interface to setup and control it. See attached demonstration videos.

expert reply by: Andrew N