weight-distributing hitch

[Andy26M]

Has anyone got any experience with a weight-distributing trailer hitch?

I've been eyeing a Dodge Nitro as a potential replacement for my tow vehicle, and they can tow up to 5000 lbs. provided a weight distributing hitch is used.

These types of hinges have spring bars between the hitch and trailer which apparently stiffen the "bridge" between car and trailer, effectively distributing some of the trailer weight to the front suspension of the tow vehicle. This is supposed to give a smoother ride, stabilize the tow vehicle, relieve some of the load on the rear suspension, etc.

In short, it sounds like ALL trailer hitches should be weight distributing.

If anyone has used one of these, does the trailer have to be modified for it?

- Andy

[Retcoastie]

Yes, you will have to modify the trailer by changing to electric brakes. Weight distritution bars should not be used with surge brakes.

[Frank C]

Weight distritution bars should not be used with surge brakes . . .

. . . except for one brand, the Equalizer.
Several previous discussions, one of them earlier this month.

Maybe one owner reported installing it. IIRC, Chip has used one, but not for his Mac.

[Harvey]

I have been using an E-qual-i-zer hitch to tow my X with a Honda Odyssey for over two years. The surge brakes work with this hitch. Do a search using the term e-qual-i-zer to see several posts about this hitch.

Harvey

[Harrison]

One product that has worked great for me is the Timbren rubber spring. It’s a flexible rubber bushing/bumper that fits between the frame rail, and the axle on your tow vehicle. It replaces your existing rubber bumper pad that’s already installed on your vehicle. No holes to drill. It sits approximately ½” from the top of your axle so it doesn’t affect your normal ride. When your vehicle gets loaded and your frame lowers due to the increased weight, the bushing/bumper comes in contact with the top of your axle. Now the load is shared with your existing springs and the bumper.





I installed mine cause I don’t like the rear of the truck sagging. Especially at night with my headlights on.

I bought mine at a local spring shop in Denver for $220. I could have saved $50 by ordering it online or waiting for some other places to get it in, but I was in a hurry. When I want something, I want it now! Like I said I’ve seen them online for $169.

The total job took about 25 min. Install each rubber bumper on it’s mount with it’s 1 bolt (supplied). Jack up the rear of the vehicle and remove the 2 bolts securing the old bumpers. Install the new bumpers with the new bolts (supplied).

When I used to hook the boat on my truck (2001 Dodge Dakota Quad Cab), the hitch would drop 3+”. Now it drops 1 ¼”, and it feels more solid on the road.

If I remember right the Timbren spring is lifetime guaranteed. I know it never needs adjustment, and it can’t loose air like an air bag suspension.

So far I have over 400 miles on it while towing, and another 1500 by regular driving. Problem free. My true test will be this weekend and next, as I tow 2200 miles RT to Dana Point CA.

---Harrison