Striking a perfect balance
An equalizer hitch system will improve the stability and safety of your unit
For folks who have purchased or are thinking about purchasing an RV travel trailer they should be aware that an equalizer hitch system is recommended if the RV has a tongue weight of 350 lbs. or greater.
A Balancing Act: An equalizer hitch system provides an even distribution of weight on the trailer and towing vehicle as well as peace of mind for the driver.—photo by Reg DeYoung
These systems are simple and will improve the handling and stability of the towing vehicle and the trailer by removing the frustrations and stress caused by trailer bounce, sway and other steering problems.
This system works by applying leverage between the tow vehicle and the RV trailer, causing the tongue weight to be evenly distributed to all axles; this is similar to picking up the handles of a wheelbarrow.
The total weight distribution or equalizer system consists of four parts or components: a hitch receiver, ball mount, spring bars and frame—clamps or snap brackets.
Firstly, the hitch receiver is bolted to the tow vehicle frame and has a square—tube receiver into which a removable hitch shank is installed. There are five classes of receivers. Class 1 are for loads up to 2,000 lbs.; class 2 are for loads up to 3,500 lbs.; class 3 are for loads up to 7,500 lbs.; class 4 are for loads up to 10,000lbs.; and Class 5 are for loads up to 14,000 lbs. Class 4 and class 5 hitches are designed for the addition of weight distributing set—ups.
Secondly, the ball mount supports the hitch ball and connects it to the trailer coupler. It can be a weight—carrying or weight—distributing configuration. The weight—distributing system has an adjustable ball mount that allows the hitch ball to be raised, lowered or tilted in small increments by adding or removing washers or through other designs. This design adjusts the spring bars to a level position to compensate for extra weight after being coupled to the trailer.
Thirdly, the spring bars are made to apply leverage or tension to the system and are manufactured for different ratings. The tension can be fine—tuned to level the tow vehicle and trailer and are a major component to this system. As a tip, I would like to suggest that you first unload some of the tongue weight by jacking the trailer up while it's hooked to the tow vehicle. This reduces the amount of force needed to lift the chains in place.
The last part of the system are the frame clamps or snap brackets that hold the chain link suited for your application in place. These are pulled into position by use of a pipe or bar supplied with each kit and are bolted to the trailer frame and secured by use of a clip to keep the chain in place.
If you are purchasing a system on your own, a good “rule of thumb” is to understand that approximately 10 percent of the trailer's loaded weight is on the tongue or coupler; if the rating on the system is borderline, then move up to the next class. Also, make sure all the components are compatible, namely, the hitch ball, which has ratings stamped on top.
Safety chains also play an important role in any towing set—up. They have two main purposes. The first one is to prevent the trailer from separating from the towing vehicle if a hitch or coupler fails. The second purpose is to keep the trailer coupler from dropping to the ground when the unit stops. They should be installed in an x—pattern to provide the cradle for the coupler and make sure they they also rated properly for your rig.
There are many manufacturers of equalizers. These systems work well and some are quite advanced over the typical design but the bottom line is the benefits will far outweigh the cost. If you wish to further improve your set—up you can add a sway control system to the package. Either way, it won't take you long to realize what a smart and safe investment an equalizer hitch system really is.
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