Why Can't I Reverse With A Curt Friction Sway Bar On The Weight Distribution System?

Updated 07/28/2021 | Published 07/27/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Round Bar Weight Distribution System w/ Friction Sway Control - 14K GTW, 1.4K TW

(456)

$411.18

Curt Friction Sway Control for Weight Distribution Systems

(323)

$76.84

1-7/8" 12pt Shallow Socket - 3/4" Drive - Chromium-Vanadium Steel

(279)

$20.06

Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 14,000 lbs GTW, 1,400 lbs TW

(840)

$750.21

Sway Bracket Jackets for Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Systems - Qty 2

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Question:

What does it mean you cant reverse with this distribution kit

asked by: Cedric W

Expert Reply:

On the Curt MV Weight Distribution System w/ Friction Sway Control # C17063 the Friction Sway Control # 17200 portion of the hitch must be removed before reversing with your 2017 Heartland Prowler. You can actually reverse in a straight line with the sway bar attached but the turning is what can't be done in reverse.

The sway bar uses friction material like brake pads that push on the steel bar to slow movement. When you are reversing you generally are trying to move the camper and a lot of steering input is used. This constant input will cause the bar to bend or break off the mounting balls as to much pressure is exerted. With these type of sway bars I only recommend installing the bar when you know you are getting onto the highway or driving on long straight roads. Many backroads and state parks will have a lot of twisty roads that will cause the same effect on the sway bar and it can break going forward as well.

I recommend the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System # EQ37140ET as a far better system to use. This hitch has a lifetime warranty versus the one year you get with the Curt. The sway control is built into the weight distribution so that there are no extra parts to remove and it is safe to use when you need to drive in reverse or on tight roads. This system has the same weight rating of 1,000-1,400lbs of tongue weight and 14,000 maximum trailer weight as the Curt.

A 1-7/8" 12pt Thin Walled Socket # ALL643216 is needed to install the included 2-5/16" hitch ball and I recommend using the Sway Bracket Jackets # EQ95-01-5150. These nylon spacers will sit between the steel L brackets on the trailer and the weight distribution bars to reduce noise when you are maneuvering. This will also reduce wear and tear on these parts for the life of the hitch.