Where Exactly on Trailer Frame Do Weight Distribution Lift Brackets Attach

Published 06/11/2015

Question:

I am still trying to fin d a WD hitch for my trailer, that will work around my batteries and propane bottle. When looking at WD packages, how can I determine where the bars will mount? Can I just assume the Bar Lengthinch measured along the A-Frame from the center of the trailer ball will be where the bar/chain bracket will mount? I dont want to purchase a setup that will not allow me to tighten the chain because the battery box/propane bottle is in the way.

asked by: Aaron

Expert Reply:

The installation instrucutions of many of the weight distribution systems will tell you how far back on the trailer frame the lift brackets would attach. For instance, with the Curt # 17301, the bracket would attach approximately 30 inches rearward of the trailer ball center line.

The similar Reese # RP66541 would have the lift bracket at the same 30 inch mark.

Rather than hunting around for a system with bars of a certain bar length, I'd recommend you simply use bolt on brackets like part # RP58305. Rather than using a lift bracket to remove the tension from the system so you can install the bars, you'll use the trailer jack to lift both the trailer tongue and the rear of the tow vehicle far enough to remove the tension from the spring bars. It's a simple solution that works very well.

If trailer sway is a problem, you could use the Reese Strait-Line system, part # RP66083. The Strait-Line system will prevent trailer sway before it can start. Like the system you looked at, and the other Reese system I mentioned this w/d system is rated for trailers with a 400-800 lb tongue weight. Since w/d systems are rated by their tongue weight, finding the actual as towed tongue weight of your trailer (to include the weight of anything stowed behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle) is crucial.

I'll link you to some FAQ articles about weight distribution that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Mike L