How to Choose the Correct Shank for an Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System

Updated 03/05/2018 | Published 03/03/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW

(866)

$659.83

Equal-i-zer Wt Distribution Shank - 12" - 13" Rise, 9" Drop - 600 to 1,400 lbs TW

(511)

$219.69

Question:

Hello, I am planning on towing a trailer with a jeep on it. The total combined weight of trailer and jeep will be around 8500 pounds. This means I will need a weight distributing hitch. The trailer coupler sits at 20 inches in height, and the top of the hitch receiver on my truck is at 26 inches. I believe I will need a 6 inch . Which setup might you recommend?

asked by: Mikkel

Expert Reply:

The general rule of thumb is that if the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the trailer is more than 50% of the GVWR of the vehicle, a weight distribution system is recommended. Therefore, yes you will want to use a weight distribution system.

In order to choose the correct weight distribution system, you will need to find the total tongue weight (TTW) of your towing setup by adding the tongue weight (TW) of both your loaded ready to tow trailer and 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 Trailer Tongue Weight Scale part # e99044. When choosing a weight distribution system, 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.

As long as the TTW of your trailer does not exceed 1,200 lbs I recommend using the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System part # EQ37120ET which is one of the most advanced systems on the market. The Equal-i-zer system has 4-point sway control which works to both prevent and reduce trailer sway. I have attached a review video for you as well.

The Equal-i-zer system comes with a shank that offers up to a 3" drop. In order to determine if that will work for you, you will want to measure from the ground to the top of your hitch receiver tube opening and from the ground to the bottom of the coupler on your trailer while level. The difference between the two measurements will give you the correct amount of rise/drop you will need to look for in a ball mount.

The Equal-i-zer Weight Dist Shank part # EQ90-02-4400 can be added to the above system if needed and will provide you with up to 13" of rise or 9" of drop. I have also attached a review video of this shank for you as well.