WD hitch specifics
We know that if I added another set of springs to my F-150 I could stiffen the suspension and increase the tongue weight. There is a limit of course because the remainder of the system, the bearings, ...
Forum Discussion
skipnchar wrote:
When you prop up the rear with helper springs or air bags it doesn't transfer ANY addition weight to the front axle which is the problem with those fixes. A properly sized (sized for 15% of the trailers GVWR) and properoly adjusted WD system will allow the maximum rated tongue weight to be carried but will NEVER have any effect on the trucks GVWR or AXLE ratings except that they will both be reduced by the weight of the hitch itself. It is absolutely the BEST way to distribute the load and maximize your towing capability.
Good luck / Skip
You are correct in that it does not change any of the trucks ratings, but it does change the amount of weight transferred to the front axle. It actually decreases the weight transfer. The reason is that by raising the height of the truck's rear, you are effectively tilting the hitch towards the truck and that reduces the tension on the bars and the weight transfer. That's why the WD needs to be readjusted with the truck and trailer loaded after installing bags or helper springs.
