Forum Discussion

krismast's avatar
krismast
Explorer
Jul 16, 2013

Shank Drop

Hi everyone. I am working on getting my weight distribution hitch set up correctly. I measured from the bottom of the ball coupler on my trailer to the ground and that measurement was 13.5 inches. From the top of the opening of my hitch connector on my towing vehicle to the ground was about 20-21 inches. Would this be the right item to use for these measurements?

Thanks

Kris
  • Ron3rd's avatar
    Ron3rd
    Explorer III
    krismast wrote:
    Hi Skip.

    Yes I do have all the other parts (platform and spring bars) I just didn't realize I would need as much as a drop as I do from my previous setup. I'm learning more as I go, and am looking forward to getting this rig on the road!

    Kris


    In that case, all you should need is the drop shank you posted. If you're going with a weight distributing system like you describe, you will mount your hitch head to the adjustable shank. Some setups require a long drop shank like you just found out.
  • Hi Skip.

    Yes I do have all the other parts (platform and spring bars) I just didn't realize I would need as much as a drop as I do from my previous setup. I'm learning more as I go, and am looking forward to getting this rig on the road!

    Kris
  • Yes but that's not the ENTIRE part. Also needs the ball mount PLATFORM that attaches to the shank. THIS is what allows you to adjust the spring pressure to transfer the CORRECT amount of weight. The OTHER very important component for the WD to work correctly is to get the correct STRENGTH of spring bars. Too stiff and adjustment will be a real pain, ride will be stiff and bumpy, and too light weight and round will be bouncy and likely can't transfer the correct amount of weight. Use the GVWR of your trailer X .15 as the target weight for spring bars. Get OVER that weight but as close as you can come to it.
    Good luck / Skip

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