WDH question - do I need to purchase a different shank?

Question

I am picking up a new TT next week, and I'm trying to determine if I can use my existing WDH (600/6000# trunion-style e2) as is, or if I need to buy a new shank with more drop.

If I place the hitch head at its lowest position on the shank that I have, the ball height is 1" higher than the coupler height of the TT, when the truck is unloaded (without the trailer connected). Note that the previous owner of my truck added an extra leaf spring, so the back of the truck sits a couple inches higher than stock (which also means it won't squat as much).

How big of an issue is this? The TT is 3 hours away, so I want to be prepared before I get all the way there. If I order one soon, there shouldn't be a problem getting a new shank here before I need it.

Thanks for the advice!

braindead0 · Answer

What kind of truck? do you know the actual tongue weight of the new trailer (not spec TW... actual)? Does the truck have built in trailer sway control? Do you know how much the rear will squat under expected tongue weight?

That close, you may be able to adjust the head angle to allow the hitch to sit a bit lower and still be safe. However if you're towing near the limits of your truck maybe not. Might be fine as is, really hard to say without know all of the details.

I think there are too many factors involved to say for sure. If you want a no-hassle pickup I'd suggest buying or borrowing another shank that will allow you to go lower if you need to.

scottg · Answer

I think you can expect your truck to settle aboaut an inch in back so you may be fine. Only way to know for sure is to try it!

everfly · Answer

Thanks very much for the replies. I think you're right, it's probably not possible to know for sure.

My truck is a 2011 Toyota Tacoma (4x4 double cab). It does have built-in electronic sway control. I do not know the actual tongue weight of the trailer. The manufacturer says the dry hitch weight is 445 lbs. I asked, but the dealer couldn't tell me the actual weight. I am kicking myself for not being better prepared when I went out to look at it.

Anyway, I just borrowed my neighbor's utility trailer, and loaded it so the tongue weight was around 550 lbs (I have a Sherline scale), and the truck was lowered just a hair over 2" at the hitch, and about 1.75" measured at the rear wheel well.

braindead0 · Answer

Sounds like you should be okay.  I'd bring tools to adjust the hitch head angle if necessary.. even running a bit nose high take it easy and you should be fine.

terryallan · Answer

I'll buck the system. yes you need a lower drop. You are starting out an inch too high. Once you adjust the WDH correctly. You will be an inch too high, Especially if you have oversized springs, you may even be higher.

Remember the goal of a WDH is to return lost weight to the front of the truck. Do that, and the rear will take care of itself. but if it already too high. It will remain so.

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WDH question - do I need to purchase a different shank?

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