Forum Discussion

trailernovice's avatar
trailernovice
Explorer
Jan 09, 2020

better to adjust wd hitch for heavy load? or for unloaded TV

Replacing w/d hitch...plan to assemble/set it up this weekend...here's the issue

We have a small motorcycle that fits in the truck bed...sometimes we take it with us on camping trips/sometimes we don't...weighs about 250..

the question: with this new hitch, would it be better to set up the rig with the bike loaded on the truck, such that the hitch would sit higher when we travel without it? or would it be better to set up the rig withOUT the bike loaded, such that the hitch would sit lower when we travel with the bike in the truck bed?

Also, I'm well within hitch weight so not looking for 'check capacity' advice...

Thanks in advance

6 Replies

  • blt2ski's avatar
    blt2ski
    Moderator
    Jan 18, 2020
    I adjusted to load. 4 links one trip, 5 another. Sometimes, screw WD, drive away!

    I'm with others, no such thing as always ready to go. Adjust as needed

    Some of us even remove them when putting the trailer away, as this allows trailer to turn quicker when backing, which can be advantageous at times.

    Marty
  • jerem0621's avatar
    jerem0621
    Explorer II
    Jan 18, 2020
    Yep,I agree with the others. Just adjust the links for the load. If you just need half a link you can use a short grade 8 bolt and nut to take up half of the link.

    Thanks!

    Jeremiah
  • wopachop's avatar
    wopachop
    Explorer
    Jan 10, 2020
    I would let the numbers decide. Load the bike, gas cans, firewood, trailer full of water and setup your hitch. Take note of how much it squats and how much you level out with the WD installed.

    Then if you ever leave the bike at home, measure everything again to make sure the rear end didnt rise to an unsafe level.

    Not sure what i would do regarding gas in the truck. Maybe 1/2 tank?

    What bike.....tw200 maybe? Trying to think what is small but still heavy.
  • BarneyS's avatar
    BarneyS
    Nomad
    Jan 10, 2020
    Set the hitch up according to how you USUALLY load the truck. Personally, I would set it up with the bike in the truck since I would be always taking the bike. :C
    Although, as the others have said, you can set it up without the bike and then if you need more WD because of the load, then just take another chain link up.
    Barney
  • noteven's avatar
    noteven
    Explorer III
    Jan 09, 2020
    On my old school chain on the end of the bars hitch one chain link adjusts weight transfer to the front axle in about 200lbs increments. Adjusting does change the handling of the truck.

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