
Installing a weight distribution hitch is a complex process that requires careful measurement and adjustment. The process begins with measuring the height of your vehicle and trailer, followed by attaching the WD shank and hitch head, setting the weight distribution hitch head angle, and installing the spring bars. The trailer is then coupled to the tow vehicle, and the hookup brackets are engaged. Finally, adjustments are made to ensure the weight is distributed evenly, and the bolts are tightened. While it is possible to install a weight distribution hitch yourself, it is recommended to seek professional assistance to ensure a safe and proper installation.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Purpose | Connects tow vehicle to trailer and evenly distributes load across all axles |
Installation | Depends on the system, may be done as a DIY project or by a professional |
First Step | Take vehicle measurements |
Second Step | Install the weight distribution shank |
Third Step | Install the hitch ball |
Fourth Step | Install/adjust the head assembly |
Fifth Step | Connect spring arms and sway control |
Sixth Step | Check your work |
What You'll Learn
Take vehicle measurements
Taking measurements of your vehicle is the first step in installing a weight distribution hitch. This will give you a baseline to work with and ensure that your setup is correct and safe. Here's a detailed guide on taking the necessary measurements:
First, park your tow vehicle on a level surface. This is crucial to ensure accurate measurements. You can use a level tool or a bubble level app on your phone to check if the surface is level. Measurements should be taken with a tape measure, and you'll want to record the measurements for future reference.
Next, decide on two stationary points on the front and rear of the vehicle to measure. You can choose to measure from the ground to specific points on the vehicle, such as the front and rear tires, the lower portion of the fender well, or the front and rear bumpers. Alternatively, you can measure from the ground up through the axle to the top of the wheel well for all four wheels, as mentioned in one source. Record these measurements, as they represent the height of your vehicle when unladen.
Now, you'll want to repeat these measurements for your trailer, if you have it connected. Measure the height of the trailer from the ground to the top of the trailer coupler. Additionally, measure the distance from the ground to the bottom of the trailer's front and rear bumpers. If you don't have a trailer connected, you can skip this step for now and take measurements once you have a trailer attached.
Once you have the initial measurements, you can proceed with the installation of your weight distribution hitch. After installing the hitch, you will re-measure the same points to ensure that the hitch is doing its job correctly. The goal is to correct the vehicle sag that occurs when a trailer is hooked up, so the measurements after installing the hitch should be closer to the initial set of numbers.
It is important to note that your specific setup may differ, so always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for your particular weight distribution hitch model. The above guide provides a general framework for taking vehicle measurements, but you should adjust it as needed based on the instructions provided with your hitch.
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Install the weight distribution shank
Installing a weight distribution hitch can be intimidating, but it's a crucial step to ensure safety when towing a trailer or camper. Here's a detailed guide on installing the weight distribution shank:
Step 1: Remove the Old Ball Mount
If you already have a ball mount installed, start by removing it. This step ensures that you have a clean and secure area to work with when installing the new weight distribution shank.
Step 2: Install the WD Shank
The weight distribution (WD) shank is a crucial component of your hitch system. It connects the hitch to your vehicle and helps distribute the weight evenly. Slide the WD shank into the hitch receiver on your vehicle. Make sure it's fully inserted and secure it in place with a hitch pin and clip. This step provides a solid foundation for the rest of the installation process.
Step 3: Measure and Level
Before proceeding, it's important to ensure your trailer is level. Measure from the top of the coupler to the ground, and compare it to the measurements you took earlier of your vehicle without the trailer attached. This step ensures that your hitch ball will be installed in the correct position. Use a level on the side of your trailer for added accuracy.
Step 4: Position the Head Assembly
The head assembly is what connects the shank to the hitch ball. Position the head assembly on the adjustable shank, making sure that the top of the trailer ball is one to three inches above the coupler height. Secure the assembly with a mounting bolt at the bottom, but don't tighten it completely yet. This step allows for fine-tuning the height and angle of the hitch ball.
Step 5: Adjust the Head Angle (Optional)
Depending on your specific weight distribution hitch, you may need to adjust the head angle. Consult your hitch's instructions for this step. Typically, it involves adding or removing washers from the adjustment rod or spacer rod to achieve the proper angle. The head should be vertical or tilted slightly back. Once you've made the necessary adjustments, insert the second bolt and fasten both bolts with the provided nuts and washers. Again, don't tighten them completely just yet.
Step 6: Finalize and Secure
Now that you've installed the weight distribution shank and adjusted the head assembly, it's time to secure everything in place. Tighten all the bolts, nuts, and washers according to the manufacturer's specifications. Remember to follow the instructions included with your specific model, as different hitches may have unique requirements.
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Install the hitch ball
Now that you have the measurements, it's time to install the hitch ball. This will involve sliding the hitch ball into the head assembly and securing it with a washer and nut. But before you do that, make sure your trailer is level by measuring from the ground to the top of the coupler. This measurement will ensure that your hitch ball is installed in the correct position. It's also recommended to use a level on the side of your trailer for more accurate results.
When installing the hitch ball, the top of the ball should be about 1/8" higher than the coupler for every 100 lbs of tongue weight. For example, if your tongue weight is 800 lbs, then the ball should be about 1" higher than the coupler height. This adjustment is necessary to compensate for vehicle squat.
A helpful tip is to rotate the shank sideways and temporarily place the head assembly on the shank. This will make it easier to tighten the ball down. You can also use a tool like the HitchGrip to handle the heavy head assembly.
Once the hitch ball is inserted into the head assembly, you can place the shank and head sideways to tighten the ball down securely.
Adjustments and fine-tuning
After installing the hitch ball, you may need to make some adjustments to ensure optimal performance. If your vehicle sags when the trailer is attached, you may need to add washers to the spacer rivet. This can be done by disassembling the head and sliding washers onto the spacer rivet. Then, insert the rivet back into the head assembly. Adding washers will bring the hitch ball closer to the trailer. If you need to move the ball closer to the tow vehicle, simply remove some washers.
It's important to note that the number of washers required may vary depending on your vehicle's sag. You may need to experiment with different numbers of washers until you find the right amount for proper adjustment. Additionally, different weight distribution hitch systems may have unique methods for adjusting the tilt of the head assembly. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for your specific system.
Safety and maintenance
Remember to perform regular maintenance and inspections on your weight distribution hitch to ensure safe and proper functioning. Check all hardware, including hitch pins, brackets, chains, and nuts, for tightness and torque them to the specified values. It's also crucial to re-measure your vehicle and trailer heights after making any adjustments to ensure they are within the recommended specifications.
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Install/adjust the head assembly
This step will differ depending on the type of weight distribution hitch (WDH) you have. You can adjust the tilt of your WD head assembly, and therefore the angle of the spring bars, to help apply the necessary amount of leverage to lift the rear of the vehicle.
The traditional washer-style adjustment method lets you adjust the tilt by sliding washers onto a spacer rivet and then inserting the rivet into the head assembly. To bring the hitch ball closer to the trailer, add washers. To bring the ball closer to the tow vehicle, remove washers.
Serrated washer-style systems are an improvement over traditional washers, as they let you fine-tune the tilt of the head with ease. Unlike traditional systems, serrated washers are positioned externally on either side of the head, so you can easily loosen, adjust, and tighten the washers as needed.
Preset washer systems take the guesswork out of finding the correct tilt by providing preset adjustment options for you to choose from. Unlike traditional washer systems, preset systems don't require you to disassemble the head to make adjustments or to keep track of unused washers. Just select one of the ready-made settings and adjust until your trailer is level.
To install, slide the adjustment washer onto the head assembly bolt, and slide the bolt into place. If there is a second bolt, place the second block washer on the opposite side of the bolt, in the same orientation.
Before securing the head assembly, take another measurement from the ground to the top of the hitch ball to make sure it is at the proper height (about 1/8" higher for every 100 lbs of tongue weight). Snug down your system to hold it in place, but wait until the end to tighten everything fully, in case you need to make adjustments later.
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Connect spring arms and sway control
Now that you've installed the weight distribution hitch, it's time to connect the spring arms and set up the sway control. This process will help distribute the weight evenly and reduce trailer sway, making towing your camper safer and more stable.
First, connect your vehicle and trailer. Use a jack to lift them together, this will make the next steps easier. Next, add some wheel bearing grease to the hole on the head assembly where the spring arm will be inserted. This will make the process smoother and help prevent wear and tear.
Now, insert the spring arms. The type of spring arms you have will determine how you do this. Round arms slide into the head from the bottom and are held in place with clips, while trunnion bars slide into the head from the side or back.
If you have a chain and bracket system, your spring bars will attach to your trailer frame using chains and brackets. Place the brackets on the trailer coupler frame as indicated in your instruction manual, then connect the chains to the brackets. You may need to adjust the number of chain links to achieve the right tension. Most applications require around five links, but this can vary depending on the load weight.
For sway control, you can use a chain and bracket system with anti-sway friction bars. Apply grease to the mounting points, add the sway bar, and secure it with safety pins.
Alternatively, you may have a sway control bracket system, such as a 2-point or 4-point system. First, mount the brackets to the trailer frame, then load the spring bars onto the brackets using the provided pry bar tool and secure them with pins.
Once you've connected the spring arms and set up the sway control, you're almost done! The final step is to check your work by re-measuring your vehicle and trailer to ensure everything is level and within the recommended specifications.
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