Are Any Rear-Axle Suspension Kits Compatible with Equalizer 4-Point Weight Distribution Hitch

Updated 10/31/2013 | Published 10/29/2013

Question:

I am looking to improve my 2013 Ram 1500s towing performance not capacity. I have a 28` Travel trailer and I get a fair amount of rear end squat and a light front end makes driving a little uncomfortable. Additionally, I seem to get a fair amount of sway on bouncy roads. I have an equalizer 4 point weight distro hitch with sway control and am looking at additional products to help make the truck work better and drive more comfortably. I was wondering if this product, in conjunction with e rated tires and heavy duty shock absorbers will help me out. I am a relative newbie when it comes to heavy towing and a larger truck is just not an option for me right now so any insight would be GREATLY appreciated!! Thanks!

asked by: Donovan

Expert Reply:

Generally we do not recommend using both a weight distribution/sway control hitch and a rear-axle suspension kit at the same time. When such products are mixed they can tend to fight each other and the result can be erratic and unpredictable performance.

I suggest your first step be a precise measurement of your trailer fully-loaded tongue weight with your typical cargo, supplies and equipment loaded, water and propane tanks filled just as when you are on the road. If your Equalizer system is not of the correct tongue weight rating for your loaded trailer then this could be why you still find your Ram has some rear end sag. Weight distribution hitches must be matched to your actual fully-loaded tongue weight. The linked article offers several methods for determining tongue weight, including the handy etrailer scale, part # e99044.

Once you measure your trailer tongue weight you can verify that your Equalizer system is of the appropriate rating. If it is you may want to check your installation. This system uses the traditional washer-style adjustment method to control head tilt and spring bar tension. It may be a matter of simply adjusting the head tilt to increase spring tension and with that the lift applied to the rear end of your Ram pickup.

Tires with a higher weight load rating will not improve handling. If your current tires are rated appropriately then changing them will not affect performance. Heavy-duty shocks are intended to help primarily with loads placed in the bed of the truck. If your Equalizer is rated correctly and installed exactly as per the manufacturer instructions it should provide satisfactory performance in your application.

expert reply by: Adam R