Why is it Important to Make Weight Distribution Head Angle Adjustment

Updated 05/15/2015 | Published 05/14/2015

Question:

I purchased from etrailer a pro series weight distrbuting hitch. this hitch allows for a tilt adjustment on the ball. there is however no guidance in the instructions how to set the tilt or why it is important. Can you help with this? i have my tilt set at 90 degrees. another question....my hitch pops amd groans around corners. should I grease at pivit points or is it due to the tilt? tnx!!

asked by: Daniel K

Expert Reply:

Weight distribution heads are adjustable to get the spring bars level or just below level with the trailer frame. Depending on the trailer frame, the head may need to be set at 90 degrees, it also may need to be tilted down as far as possible to keep the trailer level. This will also depend on the weight of the trailer and strength of the suspension on the vehicle.

Head angle affects bar tension. With too much spring bar tension the rear of the vehicle could lift. Not enough tension and it will still sag.

The popping you hear could be from a friction sway control unit, but without knowing which system you have its hard to say. It is perfectly normal to have some noises from the system since there is always metal on metal contact. You can use some grease like Reese Hitch Ball Lube # 58117 to help reduce some of the noise.

I could not find any order history for you here at etrailer so I do not know which Pro Series weight distribution hitch you are using or if it also includes sway control. Please feel free to let me know your hitch part number or your order number so I can help you with set-up for your particular hitch.
You may also want to have a look at the linked video showing installation of a Reese WD system.

expert reply by: Adam R