surprise! need a new drop shank

Question

Ended up buying a new truck and it has a much higher receiver on it than my last.
So bad that when hooked up to travel trailer I have a 3.5" drop from front to back. The rear of camper is way low. So my thought was since my last truck had a 8" drop shaft and on lowest set of holes was nearly level (within an inch), I must go to a 12" drop shaft to get back to where I was on last truck or maybe even a bit lower which would probably be dead level on the new truck. Anybody see any issues with this reasoning? That's a heck of a difference and new truck is stock height!

linnemj · Answer

I recently bought a used cargo trailer and had to buy an extended shank since my equalizer shank wasn't low enough to tow level.  Be prepared for sticker shock - my was close to $150 and tough to find one locally!

memgrove · Answer

I would think you only need another 2 inches of drop and not 4 because as you drop the front you raise the back of the trailer.

I have had good luck going to the hitch shop and trading in my old shanks and with a little cash finding one that has been traded in.

I know i get a better deal if I do just a little prep and spray painting so they look new.

woodtrucker · Answer

I didnt think about the raise in the back, i may still do an extra 4" since I may be going up one tire size. That should giveenough room if the tire size raises me up another inch or so. Thanks for the tips and yeah I've already been sticker shocked!

1oldtruck · Answer

I found myself in the  situation yesterday.  I traded  my 1500 for a 2500.  The 2500 sits 5" higher than the 1500.  Luckily I was able to turn the hitch over and gain just enough drop to reuse the old hitch.

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surprise! need a new drop shank

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