Will Longer Shank Reduce Effectiveness of Weight Distribution System

Updated 10/01/2018 | Published 09/29/2018

Products Featured in This Question

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

(853)

$900.00

Equal-i-zer Weight Dist Shank - 18" Long - 8" Rise, 4" Drop - 600 to 1,400 lbs TW

(503)

$175.36

Question:

2012 F150 towing a 7,000 lb GVWR travel trailer with a tongue weight of 980 lbs. I would like to use a longer shank than the stock shank so I can open the tailgate of the tow vehicle while it is attached to the trailer. Will using a shank which is 4inch longer than the stock shank reduce the effectiveness of the weight distribution system I.e. Its ability to transfer weight to the trailer axles and the font axle of the tow vehicle? If so, is there a way to determine how much it will reduce the effectiveness? Thanks

asked by: Chris Q

Expert Reply:

A longer shank for your weight distribution system will not reduce the system's effectiveness so long as you get a shank rated for the correct total tongue weight.

For example the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Shank # EQ90-02-4600 is 18 inches long, offers up to 8 inches of rise or 4 inches of drop and is for total tongue weights between 600 lbs and 1,400 lbs.

This is the longest weight distribution shank we offer and so long as the shank has the correct ratings for tongue weight and rise or drop it will work without detriment to your system. If you need a different length or rise/drop let me know and I will be happy to find the best option for you.

expert reply by: Kyle S