Troubleshooting Stiff and Noisy Equal-i-zer Sway Bars

Updated 06/20/2023 | Published 06/17/2023

Question:

I have the Equalizer Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution w/ 4-Point Sway Control - No Shank - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW and its a bit difficult taking the bars off when unhitching. I lift the tongue jack all the way up and have to pry the bars off. Very tight. Should I remove any washers as I have 6 washers installed in the head. Just not sure and the hitch squeaks and makes so much noise when towing. I never had this issue with the chain type load leveling hitches. Any ideas? Thanks

asked by: George U

Expert Reply:

If you're extending your trailer jack all of the way and still having to really work to swing the bars away on your 12K Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System # EQ37120ET, then I do recommend rechecking how you have everything set up. It might take a little effort to get the bars on and off but it shouldn't be a huge struggle like it sounds like you're having.

It could be the washers used to angle the head but instead of just changing that and hoping for the best I recommend going through the installation instructions again to make sure nothing was missed and that everything is as it should be.

I definitely feel where you're coming from with the squeaking noise, but since this is a friction-type system that squeaking means the metal on metal friction is working as it should. Chain hanger style systems don't use the metal on metal friction which is why they are quieter, but also why they typically require a friction sway bar as well. I've heard of people putting some grease on the Equal-i-zer bars to make them quieter, but if you do that then you won't have a system as effective so I don't recommend going that route. If you are able to loosen them up a little so you can remove them then it might lessen the noise some, but the noise will be part off the friction sway setup.

expert reply by: Jon G