If you recently purchased a pull-behind RV camper for adventures on the open road, a trailer hitch is an important piece of equipment you will use. Trailer hitches provide weight distribution to keep your vehicle and camper safe and secure while you drive. Learn more about weight distribution hitches here to get an idea of what your RV outfit specifically needs.

Questions About Trailer Hitches for Weight Distribution Answered

What does a weight distribution trailer hitch do?

These trailer hitches serve as weight management equipment. The tongue weight is greater than the tow vehicle receiver hitch weight, creating leverage and even weight distribution.

Tow vehicles subsequently will not take the weight off the front axle and sag, or experience issues such as trailer sway, body roll, or reduced traction, stopping power, and steering control. Weight distribution trailers also reduce tire stress to prolong their lifespans and create smoother driving experiences. 

When are these hitches required?

Weight distribution trailer hitch requirements vary; however, hitches must be used if your trailer sways when you drive or the tow vehicle sags when it is hooked up to the camper.

You also need a weight distribution hitch if your camper outweighs your tow vehicle by 50% or more, your tow vehicle’s front lifts off the ground, or steering and stopping become difficult with the trailer attached. If your trailer experiences severe swaying problems, you need a hitch that includes an anti-sway device.

Why is a trailer hitch ball important?

To avoid issues such as excessive swaying and tow vehicle lifting, the hitch ball must be able to accommodate the trailer load. Balls feature weight ratings ranging from 2,000 to 30,000 pounds and come in three standard sizes: 1-7/8 inches, 2 inches, and 2-5/16 inches. The right size trailer ball depends on your coupler’s size.

How do I know what kind of hitch I need?

Calculate the total hitch weight by adding your boot load to your tow ball download. The tow ball download weight includes anything that adds weight to the trailer, such as assorted gear, and fuel and waste management systems.

The right weight distribution hitch handles 50 more pounds than your total hitch weight. If the boot carries 100 pounds, for example, and your tow ball download weight is 300 pounds, your total hitch weight is 400 pounds. Therefore, you need a weight distribution hitch with at least a 450-pound capacity. 

Purchase the right trailer hitch for your weight distribution needs at Brad’s Trailer Supply, the RV and trailer accessory center serving Rochester, NY and the surrounding 60-mile radius since 1954. Call (585) 458-4498 today to speak with a friendly team member or review accessories and parts online.