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.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Equal-i-zer Weight Dist Shank - 18" Long - 8" Rise, 4" Drop - 600 to 1,400 lbs TW
- Accessories and Parts
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- Shanks
- 1500 lbs TW
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Equal-i-zer
- Square - 4 Inch Drop
- Square - 8 Inch Rise
- Equal-i-zer
more information >
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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.