Does Reese Weight Distribution System RP66542 have to be Disconnected when Backing Up

Updated 09/26/2016 | Published 09/24/2016

Products Featured in This Question

2-5/16" Hitch Ball for Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Systems - 10,000 lbs

(218)

$27.66

Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - Round - 10,000 lbs GTW, 1,000 lbs TW

(176)

$471.56

Question:

Does this have to be disconnected when backing up? Apparently some anti-sways you have to remove before backing up. It will be used to pull my Riverside Whitewater Retro trailer we have a lot of windy-gusty areas where Ill be towing thru Thanks!

asked by: Rena

Expert Reply:

Weight distribution systems that use bar-style friction sway control such as # RP66542 should be disconnected before backing up. If you are backing up perfectly straight then that would be ok but that is rarely the case with trailers!

Disengaging the sway bar is not difficult but who wants to get in and out of the truck to do that? I recommend a system that does allow you to back up without having to disengage the sway control.

For a system that is rated the same as that Pro Series system and is about the same price but allows you to back up I recommend Fastway system # FA94-00-1000 (requires a ball # EQ91-00-6100). I have linked a video review of this system for you. I have also included a link to our help article on weight distribution and one on determining tongue weight.

expert reply by: Michael H