Since towing results in the swaying of the trailer, it may affect the vehicle’s controllability. The weight distribution hitch helps in distributing the weight over the vehicle’s front and rear axle. This improves the vehicle handling and decreases the overloading of the rear axle. Since towing involves heavy loads, certain factors must be discussed.
Maximum Tongue Weight: When towing a trailer, the maximum load occurs at the hitch ball. This load is called tongue weight which is applied by the trailer tongue. The tongue weight ensures to keep the swaying of the trailer in check. To avoid lifting the front axle, the weight must not be too high or too lower than the maximum limit. Trailer Gross Weight Rating: The gross weight rating of the trailer includes the load weight and the trailer’s weight. The tongue weight rating is usually kept at about 10% of the trailer’s gross weight rating. This plays an important role in selecting a hitch as the vehicle’s overall weight is related to this rating. It prevents the overloading of the vehicle. Towing Weight Capacity: The weight distribution hitch is designed according to the maximum weight to be towed. It is thereby divided into various classes which carry different load-carrying capacities. The class 1 hitches carry 200 pounds of load while the class 4 hitch is able to haul 10,000 pounds of load.
These factors ultimately affect the performance and durability of the hitch. Since the market is flooded with a number of weight distribution hitches, we have compiled a list of the best available options. A “Buying Guide” is also provided to clear any confusion related to the selection of the best weight distribution hitch.
Best Weight Distribution Hitch
Best Weight Distribution Hitch Reviews
1. Eaz Lift Weight Distribution Hitch
The first product on the list is from Camco which is a consumer-driven brand. They offer quality and innovative products that lead to an enhanced towing experience.
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The Camco EAZ Lift Elite Weight Distribution Hitch is an anti-sway unit. It has a maximum 2-5/16-inch hitch ball that is designed specifically for high towing weights. The hitch comes with a tongue weight rating of 1,000 lbs. This is kept at a standard 10% of the gross weight rating of 10,000 lbs, which prevents the overloading of the rear axle. The sliding bars help to control the swaying of the trailer. The hitch ball has an adjustable mounting which can be extended from 2.5-inches to 5-inches, as per the loading conditions. The 12-inches shank adapts the hitch arrangement easily and gives confidence for heavy loads. The weight distribution hitch is designed in a way to quickly release the whole setup. Best Features:
Maximum tongue weight rating of 1,000 lbs Gross trailer weight rating of 10,000 lbs Standard hitch ball of 2-5/16-inches size Ball mounting with adjustment setting 12-inches long shank
Pros:
Standard 5-year manufacturer’s warranty Comes pre-installed and saves installation time Suitable for RVs and trucks
Cons:
No gauges included for actual load reading
2. Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Hitch
With long-term expertise in hitch development, Equal-i-zer is one of the leading hitch manufacturers. Their patented hitch design claims to offer the best-in-class sway protection to your trailers. The Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Hitch comes with a patented 4-point sway control system. This system offers a class-leading sway control that equally leads to safer towing. This hitch has a tongue weight of a maximum of 1,000 lbs while the maximum trailer weight rating of 10,000 lbs. It helps distribute all the towing weight onto the front and rear axles, keeping the front axle from lifting up. The hitch supports the standard 2-5/16-inch ball size easily. The hitch body is made up of high-quality alloy steel. The length of the sway control rack can be adjusted between 27 to 32-inches. Longer spring bars of 36-inch length offer necessary tension adjustments, keeping the trailer in line with the vehicle. The hitch shank is12-inches long and offers height adjustment between 3 to 7-inches from the hitch top. Best Features:
Allowable tongue weight of 1,000 lbs The total trailer towing weight capacity of 10,000 lbs Adjustable spring bars from 27 to 32-inches in length 36-inch long spring bar
Pros:
Suitable for heavy-duty towing Swaying protection due to the 4-point design Avoid lifting of front axle due to improper laid distribution
Cons:
The hitch ball is not included with the hitch assembly
3. Curt Weight Distribution Hitch
Curt offers a wider range of towing-related products. Their customizable hitches are known for their heavy-duty applications. Curt strictly tests their products for safety and hence its quality remains unmatched. The Curt 17063 Weight distribution Hitch is made up of alloy steel material. It has a standard trailer towing weight of 10,000 lbs which can be extended up to 14,000 lbs for extreme use. The tongue weight hence becomes adjustable to 1,000 to 1,400 lbs. The hitch has a standard 2 and 5/16-inch trailer ball that handles connectivity if the trailer and the towing vehicle. The 31 and 3/16-inch long spring bars offer the tension to the hitch, to control the movement of the trailer. The hitch is coated with anti-corrosion carbide block powder which increases the durability of the hitch. The hitch is provided with an integrated lubrication system that offers continuous lubrication. This results in a quieter hitch operation and smooth movement of the hitch. The shank size is 2-inch and fits into any 2-inch hitch receiver easily. Best Features:
Maximum gross trailer weight of 14,000 lbs Tongue weight rating of 1,400 lbs Spring bars of 31 and 3/16-inch length Alloy steel body with black carbide coating Trailer ball of size 2 and 5/16 inches
Pros:
Better handling in windy situations Compatible with a number of vehicles Smooth and quieter working
Cons:
Heavy body weight compared to the competitors
4. Fastway Weight Distribution Hitch
Fastway is well known for incorporating advanced engineering in its development process. This process helps them offer a wider range of durable products. The Fastway E2 Weight Distribution Hitch is a 2-point hitch. This unit has a high tongue weight rating of 600 lbs. The total trailer weight rating goes up to 6,000 lbs which are enough for hauling heavy loads. The weight distribution is balanced properly, leading to less loading on the rear axle. The unit has round spring bars which offer the perfect tension force on the hitch. This helps in reversing the trailer without removing the hitch setup. The rigid brackets have an adjustable setting of 24 to 27-inches between the hitch ball center. These brackets are parts of the built-in sway control unit and are connected at 2 points. They provide control over swaying motion and ensure a safe towing experience. Hence this hitch does not require the regular chain-supported brackets. Best Features:
Tongue weight rating of 600 lbs Maximum trailer weight rating of 6,000 lbs Adjustable 24 to 27-inches sturdy brackets A 2-point sway control setup
Pros:
Revising and sharp turns are possible without removing the hitch The proper weight distribution of the trailer over the towing vehicle axles Suitable for RVs and many other vehicles 10-year warranty on the hitch
Cons:
The hitch ball needs to be purchased separately
5. Anderson Weight Distribution Hitch
Andersen Hitches has been using its 50 years of experience in developing products that are different from conventional products. They offer a premium range of towing products that adapt to the consumer’s needs. The Andersen 3350 Weight Distribution Hitch is a heavy-duty hitch. This unit comes with a higher tongue weight rating of 1,400 lbs and a higher trailer weight rating of 14,000 lbs. Even with such figures, the unit is lighter than its competitors and suits heavy-duty requirements. By disabling the weight distribution feature, this hitch can also be used as a regular ball mount. The ball and the coupler have a grease-free connection and work smoothly. The hitch ball comes in two sizes, 2-inch and 2-5/16-inch. The brackets are designed in a way to fit the 3 to 6-inches trailer frames. The hitch receivers are standard 2-inches to 2-½-inches. The swaying motion is eliminated by the patented shock absorbers. These shock absorbers are combined chains and offer good damping of sudden impacts. Best Features:
Higher tongue weight rating of 1,400 lbs Higher trailer weight rating of 14,000 lbs Adjustable bracket size from 3 to 6-inches Receiver size of 2 and 2-½-inches A grease-free ball coupler system
Pros:
The hitch can be removed easily Lightweight body Improved shock-absorbing brackets
Cons:
Absence of gauge for checking real-time weight
6. Husky Weight Distribution Hitch
Husky Towing Products offers a towing-focused range of products. Their products are constantly tested to industry standards to provide strong and reliable towing solutions. The Husky 31423 Weight Distribution Hitch follows the reliability of its brand. This unit has an adjustable tongue weight rating of 800 to 1,200 lbs. The gross trailer weight rating goes up to 12,000 lbs, suitable for heavy towing conditions. The itch head is designed in a way to accommodate different spring bar settings, leading to increased adaptability. The body is coated with a polyester finish to offer corrosion resistance. The hitch height can be adjusted to 8-inches and the shank length is 12-¾-inches. This hitch features a dual sway control system to offer better stability while hauling heavy loads. The witch is thereby suitable for SUVs or trucks. Best Features:
Tongue weight rating between 800 to 1,200 lbs Maximum gross trailer weight rating of 12,000 lbs 12-¾-inches long shank Interchangeable springs bars
Pros:
Suitable for SUVs and trucks Improved sway control due to the dual sway control platform Pre-assembled hitch and hence saves installation time
Cons:
Hitch ball is not included and has to be purchased separately
7. Blue Ox Weight Distribution Hitch
Blue Ox has been active in the towing solution business for over a century now. Their product development process is focused on providing easy towing solutions which require no expertise to use. The Blue OX BXW1000 Hitch is a part of the Swaypro series by the brand. This series is developed for minimizing the swaying of the trailers and offering good stability to the trailer-vehicle connection. The above-mentioned unit has a maximum tongue weight rating of 1000 lbs, suitable for hauling heavier loads easily. The hitch head is pre-adjusted which eliminates the need to set the ball mount height. The unit is able to offer sway control and increase ride stability. The body is made up of spring steel material which offers good strength while hauling loads. The hitch supports reversing the trailer without needing to disconnect the hitch. Best Features:
Maximum 1000 lbs of the tongue weight rating Body made up of spring steel material Hitch head is pre-adjusted Noise less turning of the trailer
Pros:
Supports reversing without removing the hitch setup Improved sway protection in windy conditions Hassle-free installation
Cons:
Absence of weight gauge
8. Reese Weight Distribution Hitch
Reese is a leading manufacturer of trailer parts, hitches, and other towing accessories. They specialize in making light and heavy-duty hitches, which allows the consumer to choose as per their requirements. The Reese Integrated Sway Control Weight Distribution Hitch is an improved version of its previous versions. This unit is capable of handling a gross trailer weight of 8,000 lbs. It helps in distributing the load evenly on both axles of the towing vehicle. By keeping the tongue weight rating standard in mind, this unit should easily offer a tongue weight rating of 800 lbs (10% of the gross trailer weight rating) This unit features an 8.5-inch shank which is compatible with taller vehicles. It also has a 2 and 5/16-inch hitch ball which is pre-torqued to the required specifications. The adjustable clamps are suitable for frames up to 7-inch and can be used without drilling the trailer frame. This design helps in offering improved control against swaying. Best Features:
Gross trailer weight rating of 8,000 lbs Tongue weight rating up to 800 lbs Clamping brackets suitable for frames up to 7-inch size 5-inch deep shank Pre-torqued 2-5/16-inch hitch ball
Pros:
Better sway controlling Suitable for taller vehicles Easy installation process
Cons:
Absence of shock-absorbing bars
9. Camco Chem Weight Distribution Hitch
Another product from Camco made it to the list due to its user-friendly design. Being a lower capacity than its sibling Camco 48058 Hitch, the next product performs on par with the other options on this list. The Camco EAZ Lift ReCurve R6 has a maximum tongue weight capacity of 1,000 lbs and a relatively high trailer weight capacity. This rating allows the hitch to distribute the towing load uniformly over the towing vehicle axles. Improved sway control is offered by this hitch irrespective of the riding conditions. The top-loading spring bars help in keeping a high ground clearance at the lowest part of the hitch. The adaptive sway control feature keeps working when the trailer and towing vehicle are driving in a straight line. When turning the vehicle, this sway control automatically shifts into OFF mode and allows quicker maneuvering. The brackets are designed in a way to offer wider compatibility with trailer frames, ranging from 3-inch to 6-inch frames. Best Features:
Maximum tongue weight capacity of 1,000 lbs Adaptive sway-control feature Brackets suitable for 3 to 6-inch trailer frames Top-loading spring bars
Pros:
Maneuvering becomes easy Higher ground clearance Suitable for heavy loads
Cons:
Heavy in weight compared to the other products
10. Weigh Safe Weight Distribution Hitch
Being new to the towing industry, Weigh Safe quickly grabbed the attention of the consumers with its patented technologies. Their products are developed with high precision machines to ensure a strict quality level. The last option on this list is one of the powerful potions. The Weigh Safe True Tow Weight Distribution Hitch is designed with a 4-point sway control feature. This unit has a greater tongue weight capacity of about 2,000 bs. The gross trailer weight rating goes up to 20,000 lbs which distributes the heavy loads. The body is made up of alloy steel and powder coated for better corrosion resistance. The stainless steel hitch ball of 2-5/16-inch size helps bear heavy loads. The inbuilt weight scale provides real-time weight on the hitch body. It has a drop length of 8-inch and a maximum rise height of 9-inch. The receiver size is 2-inch and hence compatible with any 2-inch trailer frame. A stainless steel dual pin lock also provides for a secure connection between the towing vehicle and the trailer. Best Features:
Tongue weight capacity of 2,000 lbs Gross trailer weight rating of 20,000 lbs Stainless steel hitch ball of 2-5/16-inch size 8-inch drop length and 9-inch height rise Inbuilt weighing scale
Pros:
Real-time monitoring of the load on the hitch Compatible with 2-inch trailer frames Light in weight Improved sway control
Cons:
Priced higher than the competitors
Buying Guide For The Best Weight Distribution Hitch
1. Tongue Weight Rating
The tongue weight of a hitch is the amount of weight exerted on it by the trailer tongue. This rating is always mentioned on the hitch. It is 10% of the gross trailer weight rating and helps in balancing the load properly. To keep swaying motion in check, a proper tongue weight rating is necessary. The most common rating is 1,000 lbs for heavy loading conditions. This rating helps in distributing the towing load properly on the axles of the towing vehicle. The rear axle gets overloaded and the front axle tends to lift up. The tongue weight rating eliminates this problem and improves the stability of the vehicle.
2. Gross Trailer Weight Rating
The total combined weight of the towing vehicle and the trailer is called the gross trailer weight rating. This includes the loads on the trailer and the towing vehicle. This rating is essential since it determines the tongue weight rating too (tongue weight rating is about 10% of this rating). When loading conditions exceed this limit, the trailer tends to sway/move in an uncontrolled manner. Hence the load must be kept below this limit for ensuring safe towing. The most popular gross weight rating for trailers is 10,000 lbs since it is suitable for most trucks, SUVs, and RVs. Some manufacturers also offer higher-rated hitches for heavier towing needs.
3. Hitch Class
The hitches experience the maximum loading force. Hence they are designed as per the maximum towing load. They are divided into different classes based on their towing capacity and their applications. For example, the class 1 hitches are suitable for smaller cars and offer a tongue weight rating of 200 lbs and a gross towing rating of 2,000 lbs. Since the towing vehicles are usually SUVs, trucks, and RVs, the class 4 hitch is commonly used for these vehicles. Class 4 hitch has a maximum tongue weight rating of 1,000 lbs and a gross trailer weight rating of 10,000 lbs.
4. Load Placement
The laid placement on the trailer is the most ignored factor. It affects the swaying movement of a trailer. The imbalance is caused when the continuous movement of the load transfers to the trailer and then to the hitch system. This increases with time and causes high moment transfer from load to the trailer. Hence, 60% of the load is placed at the front side of the trailer to transfer all the load on the hitch. The remaining 40% of the load gets eventually distributed onto the towing vehicle. This eliminates any moment transfer and keeps the towing stable.
Conclusion
Since towing capacities and load handling are always kept in mind while towing, this option ticks all the boxes. The Weigh Safe Weight Distribution Hitch offers the highest gross trailer weight rating of over 20,000 lbs. The tongue weight capacity is 2,000 lbs which evenly distributes the load on the towing truck axles. The body is made up of steel and corrosion-resistant coating. The standard 2-5/16-inch hitch ball is provided to connect with any trailer easily. The height is adjustable and allows taller trailers to connect easily. The next option on the list is an affordable option from Husky Weight Distribution Hitch. The Husky 31423 hitch has an adjustable tongue weight rating of 800 lbs to 1200 lbs. The unit offers a high trailer weight rating of 12,000 lbs which can be used for heavy towing conditions. The hitch supports adjustable spring bar settings to absorb the varying impacts on the hitch while running. The dual sway controlling system keeps sway motion under control and improves the stability of the towing vehicle. Even with all these features, the hitch is aggressively priced and hence made it to our list. The last option offers a balanced combination of good performance and an affordable price tag. The Curt Weight Distribution Hitch offers an adjustable tongue weight rating of 1,000 to 1,4000 lbs. The gross trailer weight rating is also adjustable from 10,000 lbs and goes to a maximum limit of 14,000 lbs. The standard hitch balls allow compatibility with wider trailers. The integrated lubrication system leads to the smooth and silent operation of the hitch. The 31-3/16-inch spring bars allow the necessary tensioning of the hitch and trailer. The hitch hence becomes the value-for-money option.
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