You really need the weights. When we upgraded our trailer, I experience less than desirable towing with WDH. While I did not need WDH for the weights or sway, I had enough squat on back of truck that I needed to adjust headlights or reduce the squat. I also wanted to load up the back of the pickup.
My WDH was not up to the task and with the spring bars flexing at every bump, it amplified the bounce, even causing some flex in the receiver on my truck. I have a Sherline tongue weight scale so knew my tongue weight was 1300-1400lbs. I was using 1000lb bars.
To solve my problem (I had bounce with no sway),
upgraded hitch on truck
upgraded WDH to Reese Trunnion 1500lb/15000lb
upgraded shank
With the new setup, tows like a dream... very enjoyable towing.
I hope you are able to isolate and fix your problem, it is so nice to not stress about the trip.
