Choosing the Correct Rise or Drop for Weight Distributing Shank

Published 09/20/2011

Question:

I have a valley WD hitch. With my old truck the hitch was high causing the trailer not to be level. I need to the tongue but buying a new shank is confusing. Most shanks say x and Y rise. How do I know which shank to buy?

asked by: Joe P

Expert Reply:

Choosing a weight distributing shank is just like determining the needed rise or drop of a ball mount.

Determine the height of the top of your receiver, and the height of the trailer tongue when it is level. The difference between these measurements is the rise or drop needed. If the height of the trailer coupler is taller than the receiver height, you will use the rise measurement mentioned in the product description of the shank. If the receiver height is lower than the coupler height, use the drop measurement.

I have included a link to our FAQ page that shows how to choose the correct ballmount rise or drop, as well as a link to our selection of available weight distributing shanks.

expert reply by: Mike L