Do Spring Bars on Weight Distribution System Need to be Parallel?

Updated 05/10/2018 | Published 05/09/2018

Question:

I have a 2014 ram 1500 tow vehicle. I purchased a new travel trailer and went through the instructions to properly set up the e2 trunnion hitch. The measurements on the truck were exactly what the end goal was. I drove the 45 miles home and the trailer towed great, except for turning felt snug. The problem is the trunnion bars were by no means parallel with the camper tongue/frame. In fact, the brackets mounted to the trailer had actually rotated to match the angle of the trunnion bars and were no longer plumb. Ive since droppped the L-brackets to make the bars more parallel and in doing so, have caused significant sag in the rear of my truck. Im aware that by not having leaf springs in the rear, Ram trucks are more susceptible to sag. Should I use my aftermarket air bags to assist or is it ok to have the trunnion bars not running parallel to the camper frame?

asked by: Justin D

Expert Reply:

The trunnion bars on your weight distribution system do need to be parallel to the ground in order to operate properly. The goal of a weight distribution system is in part to help stop sag, however, so I would double check just to ensure everything was installed properly, including having the correct head tilt.

I know it's a pain to have to do that, but air bags should really only be supplemental to your weight distribution and not used as a way to significantly reduce sag if you are already using a weight distribution system. Also, be sure you have the correct weight distribution system in terms of rating. Your total tongue weight (weight of loaded trailer PLUS the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your truck) should be in the middle of your system's tongue weight rating. For example, if your total tongue weight was 650 lbs, the Fastway e2 # FA92-00-0800, which has a tongue weight range between 600 lbs and 800 lbs would be the correct choice.

I've added links to a couple of help articles on weight distribution for you to check out which may be useful.

expert reply by: Kyle S