Can Equal-i-zer Pole Tongue Adapter Be Used on Boat Trailer Tongue Wider Than 5 Inches

Updated 07/29/2019 | Published 07/26/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Pole-Tongue Adapter for Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Systems - 14,000 lbs GTW, 1,400 lbs TW

(78)

$161.63

Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System

(7264)

$269.36

Question:

My aluminum I beam boat trailer has a width of about 8.5 inches where I need to install the cross bar for weight distribution. This is the location where the left and right i-beam frame members are pinned around the trailer’s pole tongue. The problem is that all pole tongue adapters say they are limited to 5” width. It looks like I could simply turn each of the side brackets around and purchase a longer bolt for the lower connection. This seems like it would let the adapter support wider connection points. Is this a viable setup? What is the width that it can support in this configuration? Are there better options to meet my requirement?

asked by: Ryan S

Expert Reply:

I do have a solution for you, however I reached out to my contact at Equal-i-zer and he does not recommend using the Pole-Tongue Adapter # EQ95-01-5950 in the manner you described. He said that turning the L-brackets would affect the overall stability of the adapter so he couldn't ensure that it would hold up to the torque of a weight distribution system. Also keep in mind that most aluminum trailers aren't rated for use with a weight distribution system because of the stress they put on the frame. You can contact your trailer manufacturer directly to see if they have a stance on this.

With all of this in mind your best option will be to add suspension enhancement to the tow vehicle to help with any rear sag and create a more stable setup. If you have the 2005 Sierra 1500 that you listed in our fit guide I recommend the Timbren # TGMRCK25S. These hollow rubber jounce-style springs simply replace the factory bump stops on the truck to provide additional support for a connected trailer and anything you might have loaded into the bed. They also greatly reduce body roll when swerving or turning corners on the road.

I have attached a short video demonstration that you can check out as well.

expert reply by: Chris R