How to Reattach a Weight Distribution System to a Trailer  

Question:

Helpful Expert Reply:

There are a few different weight distribution systems so in order to give you exact instructions I would need to know which system you have. However, the process to reattach the system to a trailer is fairly similar for most of them.

If your system uses link chains to connect the spring bars to the frame brackets then in order to reattach the system to the trailer you will need to first install the head and shank back into the trailer hitch. Once the head and shank are in position you can then attach the springs bars to the weight distribution head. Once the bars are in place you will then attach the trailer coupler to the hitch ball. After the trailer is coupled to the hitch ball you can then attach the link chains on the spring bars to the frame brackets on the trailer. Before you tension the link chains you will need to jack the trailer tongue up about 3 inches or so to relieve some of the tension on the springs bars. The chain links can then be attached to the frame brackets using the link that provides the correct amount of tension to the spring bars. I have attached a review video showing this process for you as well.

If your system does not use link chains to tension the spring bars then the process to reattach to the trailer will be almost identical for the exception of connecting the spring bars to the frame brackets. In order to connect the spring bars to the trailer's L-brackets you will want to use the leveraging tool to position the bars up and onto the brackets. I have also attached a review video of this process for you as well.

expert reply by: Conner L

1

Robert

1/24/2018

It seems that after you do everything right with a load equalizer itch you may still end up with a slightly tilt in the towing vehicle. This of course, may make the low beams raise to the point of being too high for some folks. The question is: Can I use air bags to bring the nose down" in other words...are air bags compatible with load equalizer hitches? I'm considering the 92-00-800 Fastway e2 . Don't like the round bar style hanging close to the ground. The vehicle is a 2017 4WD 4 Runner with full towing equipment and a 5000 lbs rating. I'm looking at Most load equalizer set ups end up with nose up 1/2 to 3/4 deg. from original position There are several other comprehensive tests that support this. Even one of yours, while providing the actual measurement for the rear it skips mentioning the front.

Conner L.

1/24/2018

Yes, you can use airbags with a weight distribution system but the use of a properly rated and installed weight distribution system should not require any additional suspension enhancements. However, as you pointed out there may still be instances in which additional suspension enhancements such as airbags are needed to further distribute the load and improve headlight aim. In addition to load distribution and headlight aim, a set of airbags will also increase ride comfort and reduce wear on your existing suspension components. For a set of airbags that are a confirmed fit for your 2007 Toyota 4Runner and will work well for you, I recommend the Firestone Coil-Rite Air Helper Springs part # F4135. The Coil-Rite springs are currently the only adjustable suspension enhancement we have for your vehicle. I have attached an install video of them on a similar 2012 Toyota 4Runner for you but in order to use them with a weight distribution system you will want to first inflate the airbags to the needed psi and then engage the spring bars. The Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control part # FA92-00-0800 is a good system that is fairly easy to use. It is designed for a total tongue weight (TTW) between 600-800 lbs. In order to determine is this range will work for you, you will want to find the TTW of your towing setup by adding the tongue weight of both your loaded and ready to tow trailer by any cargo stored behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. An easy way to find this would involve using a tongue weight scale like the etrailer Trailer Tongue Weight Scale part # e99044. You will want your TTW to fall in the middle of the weight distributions weight capacity. For example, the ideal weight distribution system for a total tongue weight of 600 lbs. is one that is rated for 400-800 lbs. of tongue weight. I have attached a review video of the Fastway system for you.