How does a stabilizer hitch work

This added force can change how the vehicle handles due to an imbalance of weight between the front and back of the vehicle. Trailer sway is dangerous and can cause an accident, damaging your trailer, your vehicle, or even yourself or other drivers on the road. There are 3 main components that make up the actual weight distribution hitch. Preventing trailer sway might be one of the most important reasons to use a weight distribution hitch.

Trailer sway can be caused by a number of factors such as uneven weight distribution, sudden gusts of wind, passing a large truck on the highway, or bad weather conditions. When traveling at high speeds, like on a highway, if the trailer begins to sway, it can rapidly gain momentum and regaining control can be quite the challenge.

With a weight distribution hitch installed, the spring bars are continually working to keep the trailer in line with the tow vehicle by adding pressure on one side of the other. Before you take your next trip out with a trailer in tow, install a weight distribution hitch to ensure you make it to your destination safely. SwayPro and TrackPro by Blue Ox are both excellent options for preventing trailer sway before it starts. In order to straighten out to their natural positions, the spring bars push up on the head assembly, distributing the weight among the axles.

The next step in the process is usually to attach the chains to the spring bars and insert the bars into the head assembly. Then the brackets are mounted on the trailer and the chains are attached to those, often with a lift lock.

The brackets should be lined up with the ends of the bars, and you generally want at least five chain links showing. There are two main elements to keep in mind during the installation process.

The first is the change in the height of the wheel well rims of the two vehicles. You'll want to measure them before, during and after installation to make sure the weight distribution system is spreading the weight evenly and appropriately. The second aspect is the angle of the bars -- they should run parallel to the tongue of the trailer or downwards towards the ground, and often the head assembly can be tilted to accommodate this or the amount of chain links can be adjusted.

Some systems especially those that also offer enhanced sway control may use slight variations, such as a pair of L-shaped brackets in place of the chains, but the systems work in similar ways. Just remember that it's a very good idea to get a professional to help you determine what weight distribution system will work best for you, and to follow the instructions carefully while you're installing it.

Once you're ready to ride, get lots more great transportation links on the next page. Sign up for our Newsletter! Mobile Newsletter banner close. Mobile Newsletter chat close. Mobile Newsletter chat dots. Mobile Newsletter chat avatar. Mobile Newsletter chat subscribe. Towing Equipment. Towing Hitches.

Towing weight distribution systems like this one can make towing large loads a safer experience. Purpose of Towing Weight Distribution Systems " ". The difference between using a weight distribution system and going without is clearly illustrated here. Choosing Towing Weight Distribution Systems " ". Installing Towing Weight Distribution Systems " ". What is the purpose of a weight distribution hitch?

The primary purpose of a weight distribution hitch is to prevent dangerous conditions like the trailer swinging or losing the ability to brake, steer, turn and maintain control of the trailer. How do you set up a weight distributing hitch? First, you install a shank that plugs into the receiver.

A head assembly is then mounted onto the shank, which provides the platform for the hitch ball and spring bars. The next step is to attach the chains to the spring bars and insert the bars into the head assembly. Then, the brackets are mounted on the trailer and the chains are attached to them usually with a lift lock.

Make sure that the brackets are lined up with the ends of the bars. Our standard trailer brackets fit up to a 6" trailer frame. Equal-i-zer shanks are available in a variety of sizes which provides a custom fit for virtually every receiver height.

Visit our Shank Sizes page to find out which shank is best for you. If you have questions about your unique trailer application, please feel free to contact us. Hitching and unhitching are easily done from any angle. Install, adjustment, and hitch up are easy too!

Other hitches require you to loosen and even remove sway control bars in inclement weather. The Equal-i-zer hitch's Integrated Sway Control gives you permanent sway control.

When the rain begins to fall and the wind starts to blow, you will have peace of mind, knowing your Equal-i-zer hitch is working to eliminate sway and keep your family safe in all weather conditions. This makes it simple and easy to back into camping spots, and navigate around gas pumps or other areas with tight turns.

Hitching and unhitching with the Equal-i-zer hitch is simple. There are no cumbersome chains or add-ons, because the sway control is integrated into the hitch, providing the best towing experience possible. To hitch up with the Equal-i-zer hitch, follow these quick steps below.

With 75 years of innovation and engineering advancements, the Equal-i-zer hitch resists sway better than any other hitch on the market. The Equal-i-zer hitch is also the only sway control hitch that is entirely American made. This process allows us to control every aspect of production, holding each hitch to the highest standards in engineering, quality, and performance.

Every hitch is built from the highest-quality American steel, making it the best protection for your journey! With its Made-in-America quality and a company that stands behind every hitch we sell, you can be confident in your purchase.

When you buy an Equal-i-zer, you are investing in life-long memories with the people you love. Contact Us Warranty registration Find a Dealer. Sway Control Brackets Rigid trailer brackets are mounted directly on the trailer frame. Spring Arms The spring arms serve two purposes.