How To Choose Correct Shank Drop for Weight Distribution Hitch on Lifted Truck

Updated 07/07/2023 | Published 07/06/2023

Products Featured in This Question

Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - Round - 10,000 lbs GTW, 1,000 lbs TW

(177)

$444.59

Question:

Good morning, I am buying a Grand Design Travel Trailer, 26 footer, and the previous owner has a 1500 Dodge with no lift. Using your Fastway FA94-00-1000 as his towing setup. I currently have a 21 F-150 with a six-in lift and 35-in tires. I am pretty sure I need a drop shank to make this work. In your opinion will this shank work? Reese RP69FR Thank you for any help you can provide!

asked by: Vic A

Expert Reply:

By using the Reese Shank # RP69FR instead of the shank that comes with the Fastway e2 Weight Distribution # FA94-00-1000 you'll be lowering the drop from 3-1/2" to about 7-1/4".

Since each towing setup is unique I can't tell you right off-hand if this is enough drop for your setup, but I can walk you through the process of figuring out if this is the correct setup for you, and what you'll need if it isn't.

What you need to do is get your truck and trailer on a level surface and then measure from the ground to both the top inside of the hitch receiver on your truck, as well as to the bottom of the coupler on your trailer) with the trailer leveled out). The difference in height will tell you what kind of drop or rise you're going to need. Since your truck has a lift it's more than likely that you need a drop so if the difference you record is more than the 7-1/4" I mentioned above, then we need to get you a lower drop.

Let me know what you end up measuring and I can make a specific recommendation for you. I'm also linking a helpful article that goes over ball mount drop for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jon G