Will the 2-1/2" B&W Continuum Weight Distribution System Provide Tailgate Clearance?

Updated 01/19/2026 | Published 01/17/2026

Products Featured in This Question

B&W Continuum WD Head Assembly - 2-1/2" Extended Shank - 2-5/16" Ball - 16K

(4)

$293.76

B&W Continuum Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control for 2.5" Hitch - 16K GTW, 1.6K TW

(170)

$1319.00

B&W Continuum Weight Distribution w Sway Control and Long Shank - 16K GTW, 1.6K TW

(170)

$1319.00

Question:

Hi, I’m looking at the BandW Continuum 2.5 Part Number: BW28FR I don’t see the measurements listed for the length of the shank and ball. Can you tell me if I will be able to fully open my tailgate? 2016 Chevy Silverado 3500 stock height 2016 Brinkley I 235 Thanks

asked by: Frank R

Expert Reply:

Hey Frank. I can give you the dimensions of the shank on the B&W Continuum item # BW28FR but you're going to need to take the measurements on your Silverado 3500 to confirm the tailgate will open. From the hitch pin hole to the center of the hitch ball is 11-3/8". 4" above that measurement is where the top of the hitch ball sits.

You'll want to measure 10-1/2" out from your hitch pin hole and 4" up to see what kind of clearance you have. Then you'll want to measure the thickness of your coupler above where the hitch ball sits. Those numbers combined will show you exactly where the top of your trailer's coupler is going to sit.

We also have the B&W Continuum Weight Distribution w Sway Control and Long Shank item # BW64BR. This 2-1/2" shank extends out an additional 4" from your hitch pin hole and has the same height measurements. This system is identical to the item # BW28FR you were looking at with the exception of the shank being 4" longer.

Do you plan on driving with your tailgate down or just want the option to open it?

You can add this information, along with any other questions you have, where it says Add Comment.

expert reply by: Jerred H

BW64BR
(click to enlarge)

BW28FR
(click to enlarge)

Frank

1/18/2026

This is what I was looking for, I just want to be able to open the tailgate all the way and access the bed when hitched. I’ll need the extended shank. Thanks for the help Jerred

Jerred H.

1/18/2026

@Frank Good! I'm glad the extended shank with the B&W item # BW64BR is going to solve that problem. You're welcome! Let me know you have any more questions.

Frank

1/18/2026

With the drawbar being 4 inches longer does this lower the tongue rating like an extender?

Jerred H.

1/19/2026

@Frank The longer shank on the B&W item # BW64BR doesn't lower the tongue weight or towing capacity. It's got the same capabilities of the standard shank.