Will The Reese Weight Distribution Shank Allow Low Enough Drop And Level Truck and Trailer

Updated 09/20/2010 | Published 09/19/2010

Products Featured in This Question

Pro Series Weight Distribution Shank - 14" Long - 4-3/4" or 6-1/2" Drop - 1.5K TW

(72)

$197.51

Reese Weight Dist Shank - Drop Only - 11" Long - 7-5/8", 8-5/8" Drop - 1,400 lbs TW

(43)

$262.95

Reese Weight Dist Shank - 12-1/4" Long - 2" Drop to 6-1/2" Rise - 1,500 lbs TW

(63)

$181.47

Question:

i am currently running the reese 54970 bar with the reese 54944 ball mount. i need more . we went from a heavier trailer 6000 lbs. to this one which is 4000lbs. this trailer sits lower to the ground and i need to get the truck and trailer level. will the 63971 offer me enough room to do that ? thanks

asked by: jeff

Expert Reply:

The item you selected, Reese Weight Distribution Shank, part # RP63971 does have a lower drop than part # RP54970, but you will need to measure to determine which shank you will need for your towing setup.

To do this, there are a few steps involved. First, you will need to measure from the ground to the top of the receiver on your trailer hitch. Then, while your trailer is not connected to the vehicle and is on level ground, measure from the ground to the bottom of the trailer coupler.

Now you will need to calculate the difference between the hitch height and coupler height. If the height of the coupler is greater, then the difference will be the rise needed. If the hitch height is greater, then the difference will be the drop needed.

With part # RP63971, the maximum drop is 6-1/2 inches when used with round bars, and 4-3/4 inches when used with trunnion bars. If you calculate that you need a drop of 6-1/2 inches or less, then part # RP63971 will work great for your towing application. If you find that you need more of a drop, you will need a different shank. If you need a greater drop than 6-1/2 inches, I would recommend the Reese Weight Distribution Shank, part # RP3344, which has up to an 8-5/8 inch drop when used with round bars, and 7-5/8 inch drop when used with trunnion bars.

I have linked an FAQ on ball mount height below and a video that shows the measurement and setting up of a weight distribution shank and and ball mount. I have also linked an FAQ video on weight distribution systems.