Recommended Extended Shank for a Weight Distribution System

Updated 01/19/2026 | Published 08/13/2024

Products Featured in This Question

Blue Ox Hitch Extender for Tow Bars - 2" Hitches - 12" Extension

(97)

$143.62

Equal-i-zer Weight Dist Shank - 18" Long - 8" Rise, 4" Drop - 600 to 1,400 lbs TW

(505)

$171.11

Question:

I tow a Flagstaff 25FBLS travel trailer with a GVWR of about 7000lbs. My tow vehicle is Ram 1500 with a tow capcity of about 12,000lbs. I use a 10,000lb Equal-I-zer weight distributing hitch. I would like to extend my 2 hitch a few inches 8+? to clear some equipment on my trailer and make it easier to open my tailgate when hooked up All of the hitch extension options I have seen are no-tow or flat-tow. Do you have any options for me? Thanks, Dave

asked by: David L

Expert Reply:

David, instead of a hitch extender, which will cut your capacity in half and add another possible point of failure, I recommend using a longer shank.

You'll want to check out the Equal-i-zer Weight Dist Shank # EQ90-02-4600 which measures 18" long, which should give you plenty of clearance, will work with 2" receivers, and has a tongue weight range of 600 to 1,400 lbs.

expert reply by: Bryce D

Jesse M.

1/19/2026

Hey Dave, how did the longer Equal-i-zer shank work out for giving you the tailgate clearance you needed with your trailer? It sounds like it could be a solid way to avoid losing towing capacity. Your update could make it easier for others towing with a similar setup.