Bent equalizer bar saddles

[Narc1370]

My equalizer bars have not been equal lately, and I've noticed they have become
More and more uneven. This weekend, after getting to my campsite, I noticed the saddles were totally warped, one more than the other. The bolts were bent almost to a 45 degree angle. I can't figure out what would cause this? Any help or suggestions?

[Huntindog]

I am thinking that the OP does nor have an EQUALIZER hitch, but a regular WD hitch which many call an equalizer hitch... I can see where those saddle bolts can be bent.

[spoon059]

Pictures?

[DutchmenSport]

beemerphile1 wrote:
I'm curious what bolts are bent to a 45 degree angle. My brackets clamp onto the tongue and I can't imagine any way the bolts would be able to bend.

Got pictures?

My guess is the OP was referring to the saddle L brackets being bent. However, if the Link Bracket and the L-Bracket bolts came loose, it's possible those bolts could have bent under a stressful load. Like you, I can't see this actually happening, but... anything is possible I suppose.

[beemerphile1]

I'm curious what bolts are bent to a 45 degree angle. My brackets clamp onto the tongue and I can't imagine any way the bolts would be able to bend.

Got pictures?

[SoundGuy]

Here is the older Equal-i-zer parts breakdown.






Here is the newer Equal-i-zer parts breakdown.

[SoundGuy]

Narc1370 wrote:
My equalizer bars have not been equal lately, and I've noticed they have become more and more uneven. This weekend, after getting to my campsite, I noticed the saddles were totally warped, one more than the other. The bolts were bent almost to a 45 degree angle. I can't figure out what would cause this? Any help or suggestions?

Unfortunately you haven't provided any specific details about your particular version of Equal-i-zer nor how old it may be. That's important because Progress changed the design of the frame saddle bracket assembly (specifically the outside link plate) several years ago because of the problem you're describing. The original L-bracket was part #90-02-5100, the redesigned L-bracket is part #90-02-5150, with the outer link plates also having different numbers. If yours is the original it wouldn't be surprising that it bent ... post a pic so we can first identify just which version you have. Otherwise, call Progress Mfg, provide the serial number of your Equal-i-zer, describe the problem and they're sure to have a solution for you.

[DutchmenSport]

It's possible your hitch head has tilted. There is a set screw under the ball. If that set screw has moved (loosened up), it will make the hitch ball tile, which will throw the angle of the bars off, which could cause excessive stress, bending them. It is recommended to check the angle of the ball and to ensure that set screw is tightened every now and then.

This is the only thing that comes to mind immediately.

[AmericalVette]

Have you had to back up into some tight spaces to the point of almost "jack-knifed"? - That can put some real pressure on them.