Friction Sway Control For 2022 Volkswagen Atlas With Factory Hitch

Updated 03/21/2022 | Published 03/19/2022

Question:

I am looking to add the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver # 76176 so that I can tow my Jayco 195RB 3000 dry, 3750 full with my existing weight distribution hitch E2 Trunnion 450/4500 lb My Atlas has a factory hitch receiver, but apparently VW states it does not support a WDH. Is adding the Draw-Tite hitch the best solution in your opinion? Is the Draw-tite mounted identically on Atlas with or without a factory hitch? Your video instruction shows mounting on models without a factory hitch.

asked by: Robert C

Expert Reply:

I took a look at the owner's manual for your 2022 Volkswagen Atlas and it states, "Never install weight distributing or load equalizing ball mounts. The vehicle was not designed for these types of trailer hitches. The trailer hitch could malfunction and the trailer could disconnect from the vehicle." It the repeats never to use one a bit further down in the manual, and since it mentions that "the vehicle" was not designed for one, I can't recommend switching the hitch as a solution.

The best option I can recommend is instead using friction sway control, which I understand is not what you were wanting, but we have to recommend sticking with what the owner's manual says, which in this case is that your '22 Atlas is not able to use weight distribution. So if you were okay with forgoing your Fastway and instead using friction sway control, here is what you'd need:

- Reese Friction Sway Control Kit # 83660

- Reese Sway-Control Bracket for 2" Ball Mounts # RP26003

expert reply by: Kyle S