I towed a lighter hybrid and used an Equalizer. Had it about 3 years and never had anything bend on it.
Purchased my current trailer used from a guy who had it for 3 years. The L pins were as pictured and the head had some visible grooves worn into it. When I got it home I read through the directions and reset the hitch. The L brackets were not at the suggested location on the frame. I can't remember if they were too close or too far but they were not where they were supposed to be.
I readjusted the L bars and cleaned all the surfaces. I also added some light lubrication to the hitch head and the L bars. I know this sounds counter intuitive but the manufacturer has stated that this is acceptable.
I still get some popping and creaking but not like before AND the L pins are not bent.
Someone earlier mentioned the position of the L brackets and I don't think anyone responded. You might want to look at this first, then add a little grease and see what happens.