Should Weight Distribution Spring Bars be Disconnected When Launching a Boat

Question

Question:

I will be pulling out an 8000lb boat out of a boat launch with a very steep drop off in the water where the trailer will sit. I have a weight distribution type trailer hitch. The truck will be fairly level when in place but the trailer will be down deep. My Question is, should I remove my spring bars off my hitch before launching my trailer to allow for more flexibility at the ball to allow the trailer to go deep? Will leaving them on in this situation cause damage? Any info will be appreciated. Thanks

asked by: Ron R

0

Expert Reply:

You should be totally fine, since the trailer will lower down as it goes down the drop off on your boat ramp the tension in the spring bars will actually lower and wouldn't be an issue for you. If you were going the opposite direction and the trailer was raising, like if you were back up a steel driveway the spring tension would drastically increase. But in your situation you should be just fine.

Some WD systems require the removal of the spring bars when backing up. You might want to verify that what you have does not have a similar requirement.

I attached an FAQ on weight distribution that you might find interesting to the right.

expert reply by: Jameson C

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Answer 1

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Answer 2

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 3

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

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Answer 4

Hey Jonathon thank you so much for all of that additional information! To haul your bikes behind your class C Sprinter motorhome, while flat towing your Mini, I recommend the Hollywood Racks RV Rider Bike Rack item #HLY64FR and the Roadmaster Dual…

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Answer 5

Hey Michelle! There are definitely a lot of different weight distribution hitch (WDH) options out there. The most important thing is to make sure it is properly rated for the tongue weight of your setup. Looking at the specs for the 2022 Keystone…

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Answer 6

Hey Steve, thanks for reaching out. We do have a good option for that. I recommend the following: - Curt TruTrack 2P Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control - 7-Hole Shank - 8K GTW, 800 lb TW #C95MJ It’s designed for lighter trailers with 500–800…

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Should Weight Distribution Spring Bars be Disconnected When Launching a Boat

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