Replacing an Old Draw-Tite/Hidden Hitch Weight Distribution and Sway Control System

Updated 03/21/2012 | Published 03/20/2012

Products Featured in This Question

2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-3/4" Long Shank - Chrome - 12,000 lbs

(2634)

$19.00

2" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000

(3909)

$20.94

Question:

I would like to change my Draw Tite 03409 friction sway control to a dual cam sway control on my WD Hidden Hitch CSA D-264 V5 with Trunnion Bars and a tongue capacity of 800 LBS. My trailer is a 2004 Fleetwood Wilderness 28foot with the trailer weight unloaded at 5600 lbs and the tow vehicle is a 2004 Yukon with the tow package. I also just ordered a class V hitch from you. The Trunnion spring bars I have on it now do not have the bends in them on the ends. What bars do i need to order and what dual cam system do I need? I just bought this trailer and the WD came with it.

asked by: Richard

Expert Reply:

If the weight distribution system that is on the trailer is more than 3-1/2 to 4 years old, then you will need to basically replace everything and not just the spring bars. The problem is the newer parts are not compatible with the older parts. The new bars will not fit in the old head, so you would have to replace that as well. And since you will be adding dual-cam sway control, you might as well replace the whole system because the cost is about the same.

My recommendation is a new system. That way you get all new parts, and you will not have to worry about the condition or compatibility of the old system. For a dual-cam system with a shank included, we have the Strait-Line system, # RP66087. You will just need a properly sized ball, # A-90 for a 2 inch or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch.

This system is rated for 400 to 800 pounds tongue weight. Tongue weight is calculated by taking the tongue weight of the trailer when loaded and ready to tow, and adding the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle.

I have included links to the installation details and an FAQ on weight distribution and sway control.

expert reply by: Michael H