How To Haul an ATV In Truck Bed While Towing

Updated 03/25/2025 | Published 08/21/2019

Question:

I have about 7500lb trailer fully loaded with 800lb tongue wt. I am hoping to find an extension to my weight distribution hitch or some kind of extension so I can carry my ATV in the back of my 5.5ft short bed truck. Any ideas from any of you guys??

asked by: Tim

Expert Reply:

If you need to tow with the tailgate down so you can haul your ATV in the truck bed then the most common solution for this is to use an extended weight distribution shank, the Equal-i-zer Weight Dist Shank part # EQ90-02-4600. This should provide enough clearance for the tailgate to clear the tongue jack which is usually what hits first and it will work with pretty much any brand of weight distribution system. The problem with using an extender is they reduce the weight capacity of the hitch too much.

I have attached a photo to assist.

expert reply by: Conner L

click to enlarge

Dave A.

3/24/2025

I'm new to the camper experience and wanted to bring my ATV to Colorado this summer in the back of my F150 with our camper. It will fit in my bed but will need to keep the tailgate down. The tailgate extends about 18" past the end of the truck when it is down, so in order for this to work I would need to extend the ball past the end of the tail gate. Is that correct? I think that would be way too far to do so safely.

Jerred H.

3/24/2025

@DaveA Yes, that is correct. The safest way to do this and not reduce your hitch's capacity is to utilize an extended shank for a weight distribution system like item # EQ90-02-4600 and then add a weight distribution system. How much does your trailer weigh when you have it loaded? I would be happy to recommend a system but need to know this information.

Dave

3/24/2025

@JerredH Weight Dry Weight 5,300 lbs. Payload Capacity 2,100 lbs. GVWR 7,400 lbs. Hitch Weight 638 lbs.

Jerred H.

3/25/2025

@Dave Thanks for the information! You can use the Equal-i-zer Shank item # EQ90-02-4600 with the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution w/ 4-Point Sway Control item # EQ37101ET and definitely have enough room to drop your tailgate! Not sure if you're familiar with weight distribution systems but this will also address in sway issues you're experiencing when towing your trailer. I have linked an FAQ below for you to check out. If you have any additional questions feel free to throw them into a comment box and I'll be happy to answer them.

Helpful Links

faq-weightdistribution.aspx