Reese Weight Distribution System w Shank - Trunnion Bar - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW
(70 reviews)
Price: $619.59
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Reese Weight Distribution System w Shank - Trunnion Bar - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW
Item # RP66542
Retail:$932.13
Our Price: $619.59
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- All Info
- Reviews (70)
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Reese Weight Distribution Hitch - RP66542
- 1000 lbs
- 1100 lbs
- 700 lbs
- 800 lbs
- 900 lbs
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- WD Only
- Reese
- Electric Brake Compatible
- No Sway
High-performance system is designed to offer the best in weight distribution with an easy-to-adjust, forged head; a raised ball platform; and flexible, powder coated steel, trunnion spring bars. Adjustable shank included. Hitch ball sold separately.
Features:
- Evenly distributes weight over axles of tow vehicle and trailer for stability and control
- Creates a more level ride for both tow vehicle and trailer
- Trunnion spring bars are hot rolled and tapered for superior strength and flexibility
- Bars flex appropriately over uneven terrain for a controlled, even ride
- Curved ends are designed for use with dual-cam sway control (RP26002 - sold separately)
- Adjustable spring-bar tension - just switch links in lift chains to fine-tune
- Desired tilt is easily achieved with serrated-washer design - no more piling on washer after washer
- Forged, raised ball platform on head eliminates need for raised hitch ball
- Solid steel shank has corrosion-resistant powder coat
- System includes head assembly, adjustable shank, lift brackets, trunnion spring bars, lift chains, pin and clip, and all necessary hardware
- Hitch ball sold separately - requires 1-1/4" diameter shank
Specs:
- Tongue weight: 600 lbs - 1,200 lbs
- Gross towing weight: 12,000 lbs
- Fits: 2" x 2" trailer hitch receivers rated for use with weight-distribution systems
- Lift-bracket positioning: mount about 30" back from hitch ball
- Requires approximately 5-1/2" of space along trailer frame
- Optional mounts (sold separately) that take up less space on a trailer frame are available
- Will not fit trailer frames wider than 2-1/2"
- Requires approximately 5-1/2" of space along trailer frame
- Shank length: 14" from center of hitch pin hole to center of ball hole
- Total height adjustment along shank: 5-1/4"
- Maximum rise: 6-1/2" from top of hitch receiver opening
- Maximum drop: 1-1/4" from top of hitch receiver opening
- Limited lifetime warranty
| Included w/ RP66542 | Required - Sold Separately | Optional Add-Ons |
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Create a stable ride for your tow vehicle and trailer with a weight-distribution hitch. Adding spring bars to your towing system applies leverage, which transfers the load that is pushing down on the rear of your vehicle to all the axles on both your tow vehicle and your trailer, resulting in an even distribution of weight throughout. The result is a smooth, level ride, as well as the ability to tow the maximum capacity of your hitch.
Selecting a Weight-Distribution System
The tongue weight rating is the most important factor in determining which size weight-distribution system you should use. If the bars of the system you choose are rated too high for your setup, they will create a rigid ride, which can result in a bouncing trailer. If, on the other hand, the bars are not rated high enough, the system will be unable to properly distribute the weight, rendering it virtually useless.
To determine the proper weight rating for a weight-distribution system, you must first determine your trailer's tongue weight. Then add to that the weight of the cargo behind the rear axle of your tow vehicle. These two measurements make up the tongue weight rating for a weight-distribution system.
Unique Features of Reese Trunnion-Bar Weight Distribution
The easy-to-use, serrated washers on the Reese system make adjusting the tilt of the weight-distribution head a snap. This is a huge improvement over the standard pin-and-washer method, which involves piling washers - one on top of another - onto a difficult-to-access pin. The serrated-washer system lets you easily loosen, adjust and tighten a single washer and nut on either side of the head for simple, secure positioning.
The trunnion spring bars of this system slide into the weight-distribution head for quick, easy installation. With a tapered design and hot rolled steel construction, these bars offer superior flex, ensuring a smooth, controlled ride for both your tow vehicle and your trailer. In addition, these specially designed bars have rounded, hooked ends, making them the only kind of spring bars that can function with Reese's active-style, dual-cam sway control (sold separately).
66542 Reese Trunnion Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with Hitch Bar
Installation Details
California residents: click here
Customer Satisfaction Score:
97% were satisfied with this product
3% of customers were not satisfied
- Wrong item was ordered
Customer Reviews
Reese Weight Distribution System w Shank - Trunnion Bar - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW - RP66542
Average Customer Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars (70 Customer Reviews)
High-performance system is designed to offer the best in weight distribution with an easy-to-adjust, forged head; a raised ball platform; and flexible, powder coated steel, trunnion spring bars. Adjustable shank included. Hitch ball sold separately.by: James08/02/2023
This worked great. I gained about 2 1/2 inches on the rear lift , both the front and rear wheel well are at 36 1/2 off the ground . what a difference . Trailer is a little higher then level, not much, but with a quick adjustment that can be rectified. Delivery was on time and working with Briana was a pleasure. I emailed all the specs and the correct unit was recommended to me which is the one I purchased.
by: Dave 04/10/2024
I've been looking for this Reese hitch and was having trouble finding at with all the parts, I got all the hardware to make this hitch work and at a lower price. It was delivered to my house 3 days later and Lauren A answered all my questions and took my order, Thank you
by: Larry08/05/2020
Excellent customer service, Steve was knowledgeable and courteous. Fast delivery. Great quality. Adjustable chains work well for varying loads on my 10K car hauler.
by: Daniel 02/06/2024
The folks at etrailer were very helpful on selecting this Reese hitch. Great people there. Thank you for all your help.
by: Bob N.08/17/2013
Excellent delivery speed, unfortunately we had to wait until last week to have the trailer delivered. Used the hitch 3 times and are very pleased with the ease of installation. Enjoyed the heavy duty bar to over center the distribution bar. Used the same trick I used on previous hitches - place a bicycle handlebar grip on one end of the bar - much more comfortable. First time with trunnion bars - I'll never go back to the bent bar type with the snap pins and flexible clips - I've had to replace them several times - a real pain to drill out the rivets and find new ones. Very satisfied with hitch. Pulling a 24' Outdoor RV - "Timber Ridge" - 8000 GVW with 900 lb tongue weight with a Ford F250 Diesel. Pulls like a dream!
by: Steve12/13/2014
I am very happy with the Reese Weight Distribution System that
I purchased from E-Trailer.
Even more... I got exceptional customer serviced from the staff and Technical Experts that I contracted.
I have included some installation tips in the attachments & a photo of what it is all about!
by: ImagineTravelsGD10/21/2020
After our third trip with this hitch it has performed great. This is almost exactly the same hitch that we have had for over 20 years so hopefully we will get 20 plus out of this one. Our only dissatisfaction is that the hold pins are very difficult to insert. As always the service of etrailer has been terrific.
Kimble W.
10/22/2021
After a year of use its still performing great.
by: Donald09/26/2021
Super hitch easy to set up and install. Easy and very informative instructions. Hooked up took a test drive worked so well I thought this can’t be true. Made an adjustment on the chain link and OMG what a big difference, not for the good though. Went back to the instructed set up perfect. Love it.
by: Mark08/17/2021
One of the nuts supplied to attach chain to trunion bar was not self locking. Otherwise this was bought because I have next larger version for a different trailer and have been pleased with it. The service was great in that the ball I ordered was out of stock and they notified me immediately and suggested an alternative ball that met my needs.
Mark
8/19/2022
Works well. I like the easy adjustability of the chains for different loads as the trailer is used for many different items.
by: mark o06/02/2016
We ordered the the weight distribution kit and hitch for a new camper on May 20th. We were going camping on the 26th of may and still had not received confirmation of shipping on the 23rd. My wife called and spoke to Sandy who advised that the online order dept was very backlogged but that she would check into getting it shipped right out for us. We received the hitch on the 25th and were able to get it hooked up and ready to go for the memorial weekend camping trip. Excellent product but more importantly to us was the above and beyond customer service we received.
Mark O.
6/21/2017
Great product!!!Very well built.
by: Scott in AZ09/14/2016
Another great Reese Product.
Installed on a Tundra towing a Flagstaff Tent Trailer with a toy deck. I was having problems with the load sinking my truck and trailer. With the distribution system installed it is now towing very nicely. I had to increase the length of the chain by 1 link due to the way that the hitch on the trailer was built. I would buy and use another one with NO hesitation.
by: Chris V08/08/2017
The product, for how much steel it consists of came to my front door step completely unscathed. The packaging was flawless. After the cursory inspection, I began laying out the parts readying myself for assembly. The instructions were thoughtfully crafted and easy to follow.
Once mounted and setup, I took the trailer for a test pull. My trailer is a 26' enclosed car hauler. I put my wife's car in the trailer (her car is relatively small and probably only ways 2500 lbs give or take) and pulled 5 miles of curvy roads and about 10 miles of freeway. The system is confidence inspiring! I would whole-heartily recommend this product. It arrived quickly mounted easily and inspires confidence. What more could you ask for?
by: Jeff11/10/2017
The hitch is plenty heavy duty and worth the money. Makes a big difference when driving with a heavier trailer when compared to a conventional hitch.
Delivery of the hitch was fast too!!
by: Glen08/27/2015
Great product instructions easy to follow, easy to install. It was a backordered product but came in a week earlier that expected. Packaged well though box was ripped in during shipping, watch out for the shim (optional shim Kit) that comes with the kit, almost threw it out was stuck loose in the bottom of the box.
by: Cliff A.07/28/2016
Appears to be good quality and easy to install - just need some time and don't rush the process. Have only used it once on a short trip and seems to be good. I noticed that the ride seems stiffer than with the curve bar type that I had prior - the bars are bigger and at a different point and do not appear to flex much. Shipping was faster than I expected for a heavier package. I will know how it performs after taking a longer trip.
by: Dave 12/26/2020
Very heavy-duty. Superior quality. etrailer's customer service is outstanding! They agreed to price match, shipped immediately, great communication, excellent follow-up. Love doing business with this company.
by: Jay M04/04/2015
purchased this to replace my old load leveler. when I bought a new bunkhouse w/ a tipout the old 8000# wouldn't handle it. it was easy to put together and the hook is a breeze. the price was excellent and delivery was very quick.
by: Ben G.03/20/2018
This has made hauling our trailer a lot easier.
The trailer is a 24 ft enclosed, used mainly for racing.
by: Dominick 02/02/2022
Great product and quick delivery. I had the same exact hitch for my travel trailer and it served us well.
by: Susan 09/13/2019
We're first time horse trailer owners and took the recommendation of EquiSpirit as to where to purchase the necessary equipment. We have been very satisfied with your service, your speedy delivery and no delivery charge on the heavy items.
by: Dave R.09/16/2013
Excellent quality, forged not cast. Quick shipping, knowledgeable sales staff. I would highly recommend e trailer.
by: Kim W.10/11/2012
I ordered a Reese Weight Distribution Hitch from etrailer and it was shipped the same day. It arrived in great shape, I'm very satisfied with my purchase. The online price at etrailer was substantially less than what it would of cost locally.
by: Cory Mac01/15/2013
Product appears to be of top quality and is very well built. I am hoping that it will shift more of the weight to the front of the truck and level it out. I will find out this spring when the towing season starts.
by: Merle01/24/2018
Very fast service and its just what I was looking for, Thank You
Merle
1/24/2019
Holds a load very well and keeps my truck on track going down the road!
by: Roger D03/23/2017
Exactly what I needed. Good quality , everything was included with complete instructions to install.
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Show More Reviews
See what our Experts say about this Reese Weight Distribution Hitch
- Hitch and Weight Distribution Recommendation for 1996 GMC 4X4 PickupThe Curt Class V Receiver Hitch, part # C15325 would be a great choice for your truck. The hitch is rated at 16,000 lbs, 17,000 lbs when using a weight distribution system. You will need to ensure that the towing capacity of the vehicle exceeds the fully-loaded weight of the trailer. In order for a weight distribution system to work at peak performance, it needs to be matched as closely as possible to the tongue weight of the trailer as it is typically towed. When you quote 10,000 pounds...
view full answer... - Weight Distribution System Recommendation for 2011 Nissan Armada I checked with Nissan and they actually recommend the use of a weight distribution system if the trailer you plan to tow weighs more than 5,000 lbs. The weight of the WD system does not need to be considered as additional tongue weight either. The Reese Trunnion Kit part # RP66542 would be a great choice that your tongue weight would fall in to it's range. For a 2 inch ball you would want part # A-90 and for a 2-5/16 inch ball # 19286. You would need to inflate your air bags first before...
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- Replacement Head Bolts or Shims for Weight Distribution HeadFor the Reese Weight Distribution System w Shank # RP66542 you asked from, if you have 1/32 inch back and forth giving you 0.0625 inch of play, then it is recommended to use the Replacement Shim Kit for Heavy Duty and High Performance Weight Distribution Systems # 58207. However if you only have 1/32 inch movement in one direction, then the shim will be too large at 0.042 inch when 1/32 inch is 0.0312 inches. If the shim fits it is recommended to use it. If it does not fit, then the...
view full answer... - Weight Distribution System for Use with Three Different TrailersWeight distribution/sway control systems like the Reese # RP66542 that you referenced really do need to be carefully matched to the actual loaded tongue weight (TW) of the trailer they're intended for. This is important to ensure the system has enough tension that it can provide the desired shift of TW forward to the tow vehicle's front axle, but not so much that it causes weird handling from the trailer. This system can use 2-inch ball # A-90 and 2-5/16-inch ball # 19286. Total TW includes...
view full answer... - Should Weight Distribution Spring Bar Chains be Tight When the System is InstalledOn a weight distribution system that has spring bars hanging from chains, once you engage the spring bars and lower the jack the chains will be tight. It does sound like some adjustments need to be made though since you should have about 5 chain links from the hanger to the spring bar. You should be able to back up without remove the bars on a system like # RP66542 so it does sound like it is either a little too tight and needs to be adjusted or the system is not rated properly for the...
view full answer... - Is a GMC Sierra 2500 HD a 3/4 or 1 Ton TruckGreat question! Ford, GM and Ram use a similar nomenclature for their full-size trucks. • For GM and Ram, 1500 is a 1/2 ton, 2500 is a 3/4 ton and 3500 is a 1 ton. • For Ford trucks, the F-150 is a 1/2 ton, the F-250 is a 3/4 ton and the F-350 is a 1 ton truck. You have a 3/4 ton truck.
view full answer... - Can Weight Distribution be Used With Surge CouplersYou CAN use weight distribution with a trailer equipped with surge brakes. However, the chains joining the spring bars to the trailer frame are under tension, and this tension is going to make your surge brakes much less effective. Additionally, you cannot use a traditional sway control system. We do offer the Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System, part # RP66559 that WILL work with your surge brakes, and this system also provides sway control. This particluar system is rated for...
view full answer... - Hitch Extender Recommendation for 2000 Ford F-250 with 1,000 lb Tongue WeightFor that much tongue weight there's really only one way to use a hitch extender on your 2000 Ford F-250 short bed. For that you'd want the Torklift Super hitch part # TLF1002 with a Super Truss hitch extender part # TLE1524 with a weight distribution system like part # RP66542.
view full answer... - Weight Distribution Setup Final Measurements RecommendationSince they say to get the final measurements to settle evenly within about a 1/2 inch I would say you are pretty close but could stand to reduce the number of links between the hook and spring bar. I would try taking one more link out and see where that puts you. I attached an FAQ article on weight distribution systems for you to check out also.
view full answer... - Hitch and Weight Distribution System Recommendation for a 2014 Silverado 1500In a towing setup you always have to use the lowest rated component as the overall towing capacity. The Curt Hitch part # C15323 that you referenced has much higher capacities than what your vehicle has. All that means is that the hitch portion of your setup wouldn't fail if you went above your capacity, but your vehicle would most likely. If the max capacity with weight distribution for your vehicle is 1,200 lb tongue weight and 12,000 total weight that is the max you could do with this...
view full answer... - Is Drilling Into the Frame Required for Weight Distribution System With Sway ControlIn regards to weight distribution systems, there are those with integrated sway control like the Reese Steadi-Flex part # RP66559 and there are those with separate sway control like the Reese part # RP66542 with part # 83660. The options with separate sway control will require drilling into the frame or welding, there is no way around this. If you don't want to drill/weld then your only option is a system with integrated sway control.
view full answer... - Weight Distribution System Compatible with 2019 Arctic Fox 32AThe Pro Series Round Bar system rated for 1,000 lbs is compatible with your new trailer as long as the loaded tongue weight along with any cargo behind your rear axle of the tow vehicle are under 1,000 lbs. You are already pretty close to your capacity without adding any water or other supplies so you'd need to be really careful. Unfortunately there are not stronger bars compatible with your current system. My recommendation is to use the Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System...
view full answer... - Can Ram Tradesman 2017 Diesel 2500 Use Weight DistributionI did some checking in an online owners manual of your 2017 Ram 2500 and it looks like it can be equipped with a factory sway control setup. There are no restrictions on weight distribution that I could find which would be a more helpful way to fight sway and help with your towing experience. Did you speak to Ram specifically on the sway control restriction? Here's the info on the sway control that I found. "The trailer sway control is supported by a mechanical telescoping link that...
view full answer... - Are There Replacement Spring Bars Available For An Older Draw-Tite WDS?Since I do not know what weight distribution system you have, I cannot tell you what will/will not fit your system. The newer WDS are branded as Reese, so the odds of there being parts available for your older Draw-Tite system, is unlikely. I recommend upgrading your system with a newer WDS, like the Reese Weight Distribution System w Shank # RP66542. This system has a tongue weight capacity of 600lbs-1,200-lbs, and a gross towing weight of 12,000-lbs.
view full answer... - Weight Distribution Hitch Recommendation for Trailer with 755 lb Tongue WeightThe best way to pick out a weight distribution system is to base it off of the loaded tongue weight of the setup when it is loaded and ready to tow. This figure also includes the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. I attached a help article on determining tongue weight for you to check out as well. You will want the loaded tongue weight of your setup to fall right in the middle of the tongue weight range of the system you use. For a loaded tongue weight of 755...
view full answer... - Hitch Extender Recommendation Towing 7,500 lb TrailerIf you use the Reese Elite hitch extender part # RP45292 in your 2-1/2 inch hitch at the 24 inch length with a weight distribution system you'd have an 8,000 lb capacity. That would be the only way to get an extension with the needed capacity. For a properly rated weight distribution system then you'd need the Reese Steadi-Flex kit part # RP66560 which has integrated sway control and you'd be set.
view full answer... - Reese Weight Distribution System Recommendation for 1,050 lbs of Tongue WeightIf your loaded tongue weight is 1,050 lbs then the Reese Weight Distribution system part # RP66542 would work well as it has a tongue weight range of 600-1,200 lbs which would work well for you. The only setup that would be better would be the Strait Line part # RP66084 as it has the same tongue weight range but has a sway control system that stops sway before it starts. For a 2 inch ball you would want part # A-90 and for a 2-5/16 inch ball # 19286.
view full answer... - Weight Distribution Solution for Trailer with 10 inch Tall Trailer FrameFor trailer frames like yours the best solution is to go with a bolt on style frame bracket like the Reese part # RP58305. With these brackets you would need to use a Reese system that has chain hangers for the spring bars like the part # RP66542. This system has a tongue weight range of 600-1,200 lbs. If your tongue weight falls outside of that range you'd need a different system which if you let me know what you have I can see what you'd need.
view full answer... - Selecting Weight Distribution System for Use with 2013 Silverado Towing 4400-lb Jayco TrailerYou did your math correctly when considering the total effective tongue weight load on your hitch. Weight distribution systems must be tuned to the actual total effective tongue weight of the loaded trailer in order to operate properly. And the 200-lbs of weight behind the Silverado's rear axle must be added to the actual loaded trailer tongue weight to give you your total effective tongue weight. In your case a weight distribution system rated for a TW of 1000 - 1100 pounds would be just...
view full answer... - Weight Distribution System Recommendation for Trailer with 1,000 lbs Tongue WeightSpring bars for weight distribution systems are not known for wearing out. As long as the system doesn't get damaged in any way you can use the same spring bars for as long as they are properly rated for your trailer setup. If you are right at 1,000 lbs the 1,500 lb Blue Ox system part # BXW1500 would be too high rated in my opinion. You would end up with a setup that would provide you with a harsher ride quality. Now when picking out a weight distribution system you also have to consider...
view full answer... - Sway Control Recommendation for a Travel Trailer Towed by a 2010 GMC AcadiaFirst, the tongue weight of the trailer at 207 pounds is much to low for the 600 to 1,200 pound system, # 49570, that you have referenced. Having a system that is rated too high for your trailer will be ineffective. You can replace the spring bars with 2 of the # 58336 spring bars. These bars are rated for 200 to 600 pounds. To help with the sway problem, you can add friction sway control, like # 83660. From the length and tongue weight of your trailer, you would only need one of these...
view full answer... - Can a Jeep Commander Tow a 5500 lb Travel TrailerIf the weight of the fully loaded trailer (including water and propane tanks) is below the manufacturers tow rating of the vehicle, the Commander will tow the trailer with no problems. If your Commander is not already equipped with a transmission cooler, I would recommend one. If you could respond with the model year of your Commander, I would be happy to recommend a specific cooler. Since the trailer weighs more than half the weight of the Commander, a Weight Distribution System is recommended....
view full answer... - Can a CURT Weight Distribution Head be Used with Spring Bars from Other BrandsThe CURT Replacement Weight Distribution Head, # C17307, will only work with CURT trunnion bars. The same goes for Valley, and Reese weight distribution heads. Each can only be used with parts from the same manufacturer. If you decide to go with a whole new system, the most economical system we have for tongue weights ranging from 600 to 1,200 pounds is the Reese Weight Distribution Kit, # RP66542. The only other part you would need is a properly sized ball, # 19286 (2-5/16 inch diameter)...
view full answer... - Choosing Firestone or Timbren Suspension System for Towing 3-Horse TrailerGiven the choice between the Timbren system ( # TFRTT1502D for 2wd or # TFR150D for 4wd models) or the Firestone # F2350, I'd choose the Timbrens because although the springs won't have any effect on the vehicle ride when there isn't load being applied, they'll get progressively stiffer as more weight is added. The Timbrens have a 6K capacity, but you'll be limited by the payload capacity of your truck. The Firestone springs don't carry a weight capacity, per my contact at Firestone. If...
view full answer...
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Larry
9/7/2021
Hitch is working great on my 10,000 lb. car hauler. Have hauled loads ranging from a tractor, loader, and tiller to an SUV with no issues.