Why Is Less Tension Needed On A Weight Distribution Hitch When Used With the RAS for a Ford F-150

Updated 06/25/2019 | Published 06/24/2019

Question:

I just installed the Roadmaster Active Suspension RAS on my F150. The instructions state the following: Our kits work great in conjunction with a Weight Distribution or Equilizer Hitch. If the WDH/Equalizer has been in use prior to installing RAS, a slight readjustment on the WDH/ Equalizer to add a bit more weight towards the rear of the truck back onto to the hitch is often optimal. Can someone explain the physics of this? Im curious why you would need to re-adjust the WDH to move weight back to the drive axle. Thanks

asked by: Chris H

Expert Reply:

The RoadActive Suspension Custom Leaf Spring Enhancement Kit like part # RAS3611-Y for your 2018 Ford F-150 only works when enough weight is placed on the vehicle's rear suspension for the leaf springs to flex. If you are using a weight distribution system then the amount of flex that is applied to the vehicle's rear suspension will be minimized because this is transferring that weight to the front axle. Therefore, if you have the tension on the spring bars too high then it would not allow the leaf springs to flex enough for the RoadActive Suspension Custom Leaf Spring Enhancement Kit to engage.

expert reply by: Conner L