Can Arms of the Reese Steadi-Flex be Installed by Hand

Published 11/20/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 12K GTW, 1.2K TW

(238)

$806.39

Stackers Leveling Blocks for Trailers and RVs - 8-1/8" x 8-1/8" - Qty 4

(249)

$30.26

Replacement Friction Pad Kit for Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution Systems

(22)

$101.94

Question:

For some reason, even though I run my jack up reasonably high, the spring bars on my Reese RP66560 cannot be put on or removed without the leverage wrench provided by Reese. Ive seen some of the videos where these bars can be put on by hand in some applications with the jack run up high enough. The tension left on mine is enough that when the bar comes off the friction material, it is taking material off the edge of the front friction pad. Any thoughts on what I could do to make this process a little easier?

asked by: Steve B

Expert Reply:

I spoke with my contact at Reese and he said that depending on how much the trailer weighs you may or may not be able to lift the arms of the Reese Steadi-Flex # RP66560 without the tool. Even if you were able to lift the arm in place by hand this isn't advisable because you could potentially injure your hand doing so.

I'm not sure what you mean by "reasonably high" but the instructions recommend raising your tow vehicle/trailer up about 4" with your trailer jack. If that puts you close to completely extending your jack then we would want to avoid that as that can damage your trailer jack. If this is the case I recommend using leveling blocks like part # A10-0916 or a piece of wood so that your jack gets some extra height.

As far as the friction pads # RP58527 go my contact said that initially there will be some chipping of the pads as they get worked in and the only time you should be concerned is if there is a large chunk that comes out. To ensure that they wear properly it is also important to have the arms of the Steadi-Flex making contact with both pads once installed. If everything is sitting at a slight angle and one of them is taking the brunt of the load then there can be some uneven wear as well.

If you are thinking that there is too much material coming off of the friction pads just send me a picture of it and I can let you know if it is normal or not.

expert reply by: Jon G