RV Weight Distribution Hitch Guide: Setup, Adjustment & Best Picks
A properly configured weight distribution hitch is essential for safe travel trailer towing. This comprehensive guide covers how weight distribution systems work, step-by-step setup instructions, sway control options, and top product recommendations for 2026.
Why Weight Distribution Matters
When you connect a travel trailer to your tow vehicle, the tongue weight shifts weight to the rear axle of your truck or SUV. This weight transfer reduces front axle loading, causing reduced steering response, decreased braking efficiency, and potentially dangerous handling—especially during emergency maneuvers.
A weight distribution hitch uses spring bars to redistribute tongue weight across all axles of both the tow vehicle and trailer, restoring proper vehicle geometry. The result: better steering, improved braking, and a level ride.
When You Need One:
- • Generally required when trailer weight exceeds 50% of tow vehicle weight
- • Most manufacturers recommend for trailers over 5,000 lbs GVWR
- • Required anytime tow vehicle rear sags more than 1-2 inches
- • Essential for SUVs and lighter-duty trucks towing near their limits
Types of Weight Distribution Systems
Round Bar Systems
Traditional Design:
- • How They Work: Round steel spring bars insert into hitch head sockets
- • Pros: Time-tested design, widely available, cost-effective
- • Cons: Requires more setup time, bars must be lifted into chains
- • Best Brands: Reese, Draw-Tite, Husky
- • Price Range: $300 - $600
Trunnion Bar Systems
Premium Design:
- • How They Work: Square bars pivot on trunnion points within the hitch head
- • Pros: Easier hookup, better ground clearance, quieter operation
- • Cons: Higher cost, requires compatible hitch head
- • Best Brands: Andersen, Blue Ox, Fastway
- • Price Range: $500 - $900
Integrated Sway Control Systems
All-In-One Solution:
- • How They Work: Weight distribution and sway control in a single system
- • Pros: Simplifies setup, often more effective sway control
- • Best Brands: Equal-i-zer, Husky Center Line TS, Blue Ox SwayPro
- • Price Range: $700 - $1,200
Step-by-Step Weight Distribution Hitch Setup
Step 1: Measure Unhitched Heights
Before connecting anything, park both vehicles on level ground and measure:
- • Tow vehicle front wheel well height (ground to fender)
- • Tow vehicle rear wheel well height
- • Trailer coupler height (to find proper ball mount drop/rise)
Step 2: Connect Trailer Without Spring Bars
With the trailer connected but spring bars NOT engaged:
- • Measure front and rear wheel well heights again
- • Note how much the rear dropped (typically 1-3 inches)
- • Note how much the front rose (typically 0.5-1.5 inches)
Step 3: Install and Adjust Spring Bars
- 1. Insert spring bars into the hitch head sockets
- 2. Attach lift chains or brackets to trailer A-frame
- 3. Apply initial tension by lifting bars into chains
- 4. Measure wheel well heights again
- 5. Adjust until front and rear return close to unhitched measurements
Step 4: Verify Proper Adjustment
Properly Adjusted System Signs:
- • Front wheel well within 0.5" of unhitched measurement
- • Rear wheel well within 0.5" of unhitched measurement
- • Trailer rides level (not nose-up or nose-down)
- • Steering feels normal without pulling
Sway Control Options
Trailer sway—the side-to-side oscillation caused by wind gusts, passing trucks, or improper weight distribution—is one of the most dangerous situations in RV towing. Sway control devices help resist and dampen these oscillations.
| Type | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Friction Sway Control | Light trailers, budget setups | $75 - $150 |
| Dual-Cam Integrated | Heavy trailers, full-timers | $700 - $1,200 |
| Electronic Sway Control | Large trailers, max performance | $200 - $400 |
Top Weight Distribution Hitch Picks 2026
Best Overall: Equal-i-zer 4-Point
Capacity: 10,000 - 16,000 lb ratings
Price: $750 - $1,000
Patented 4-point sway control with lifetime warranty. No disconnect needed for backing.
Best Value: Husky Center Line TS
Capacity: 6,000 - 15,000 lb ratings
Price: $500 - $700
Excellent value with integrated sway control. Easy hookup design.
Easiest Setup: Andersen No-Sway
Capacity: Up to 14,000 lbs GTW
Price: $800 - $950
Chain-free design makes hookup a 30-second operation. Only 55 lbs complete.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- • Over-tensioning spring bars: Creates a see-saw effect
- • Under-tensioning spring bars: Doesn't redistribute weight
- • Wrong weight rating: System rated too low can fail
- • Ignoring tongue weight: Weight distribution can't fix improper loading
- • Neglecting maintenance: Lubrication intervals matter
The Bottom Line
A properly configured weight distribution hitch transforms the towing experience—restoring safe handling, improving braking, and allowing confident highway travel. For most travel trailer owners, investing in a quality system with integrated sway control is one of the most important safety decisions you'll make.
Calculate Your Towing Costs
Use our RV Cost Calculator to understand towing costs and ensure your vehicle is properly matched to your trailer.