Compatibility of Reese Weight Distribution Shanks for 2-1/2 Inch Receivers with Ford OEM

Question:

I currently have a 2012 Ford F350 with the oem titan hitch. I am using this shank currently. What shank would work for my truck without the sleeve? Thanks

asked by: Michael J

Expert Reply:

I cannot say for certainty if one of the shanks designed for a Class V hitch would work. There are sometimes fit problems using aftermarket ball mounts and shanks in the 2010-2012 Ford OEM Class V hitches. The OEM hitch uses a more rounded radius in the corners of the receiver tube, which sometimes can prevent aftermarket accessories from being installed in the hitch.

The Reese # RP54977 is designed and tested with Reese, Hidden Hitch and Draw-Tite hitches. Reese has found that the Ford Class V receivers seem to be built to wider tolerances than the Reese weight distribution shanks. If your receiver is closer to the smaller side of tolerance, the Reese weight distribution shanks probably won't fit. If you're at the larger end of tolerance, it might fit fine. In the past we have heard that giving the corners of the accessory a LIGHT sanding (not filing or grinding, which can affect the strength of the metal) can remove enough material that the ball mount or shank will fit.

expert reply by: Mike L