Should Hitch Ball Angle Be Adjusted Up and Down or Angled to the Rear Using Weight Distribution

Updated 10/25/2010 | Published 10/24/2010

Question:

I have a adjustable hitch. Should the ball be mounted straight up and down or slightly angled to to the rear?

asked by: Bill T

Expert Reply:

The hitch ball angle adjustment on weight distribution systems is designed to provide more or less distribution of the tongue weight on your trailer hitch to the trailer and vehicle axles. If you adjust the ball angle farther away from the towing vehicle, you will angle the weight distribution spring bars down toward the ground and that will distribute more weight. Angling the ball forward towards the towing vehicle puts less angle on the spring bars and therefore less weight is distributed.

We have an FAQ article (see link) that explains weight distribution, and a video that shows how to go about setting the system up (see link) for proper weight distribution and the best ride when towing.

When towing without weight distribution, the hitch ball should be straight up and down.

expert reply by: Robert G