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Monday, December 11, 2023

Distributing Your RV’s Weight Evenly: a Quick Guide

 

RV distribution hitches

The nomadic lifestyle offered by RVs is a trendy and exhilarating way to journey with your loved ones. But failure to ensure a proper distribution of weight within your RV can lead to a whole host of problems! To prevent such issues, an RV distribution hitch serves as the perfect solution to ensuring that your RV is loaded safely and ready for the open road.

In this article we’ll cover some of the necessary information about RV distribution hitches and the proper method of using them. We’ll tackle the fundamentals to ensure that you can go back to enjoying your adventures without any worries.

What is an RV Distribution Hitch?

An RV distribution hitch is a crucial element of your RV towing system that contributes to distributing the weight of your RV evenly across the axle. It is a specialized hitch that helps reduce swaying and enhances the stability of your RV.

How Does an RV Distribution Hitch Work?

An RV distribution hitch, such as a Husky weight distribution hitch, functions by shifting the weight of your RV from the tow vehicle to the trailer's axles. It achieves this through the use of a combination of friction, leverage, and tension. This distributes the weight of your RV equally across the axles, minimizing swaying and improving your RV's overall stability.

Why Should You Use an RV Distribution Hitch?

Using an RV distribution hitch is a crucial aspect of RV safety. Without it, your RV is more likely to sway, which can lead to rollovers and severe harm to your RV. Employing an RV distribution hitch is the optimal method to ensure that your RV is loaded safely and ready to embark on your journey.

Types of RV Distribution Hitches

When preparing to tow an RV, it is crucial to take into consideration the weight allocation of the hitch being used. Various hitch types distribute weight in varying ways, hence it is imperative to select the most suitable option that caters to individual requirements.

Weight-distributing hitches, fifth-wheel hitches, and gooseneck hitches are the three most common types of hitches used. Each of these hitch types has a different method of weight distribution, and therefore requires further examination.

Weight-distributing hitch

Weight-distributing hitches, like the Husky weight distribution hitch, are the most frequently used hitch type. It has the capacity to distribute the weight of the trailer evenly across both the trailer and tow vehicle. This type of hitch also aids in minimizing sway and enhancing stability while driving.

Fifth-wheel hitch

Fifth-wheel hitch is most appropriate for larger trailers, as it disperses the weight of the trailer among the tow vehicle and trailer axles. This hitch is usually employed when towing vehicles with a higher gross vehicle weight rating.

Gooseneck hitch

Gooseneck hitch is the least popular type of hitch, fastening to the bed of the tow vehicle and distributing the weight of the trailer to the frame of the tow vehicle. This type of hitch is typically utilized for towing heavier trailers, given that it distributes the weight equally across the tow vehicle's frame.

When selecting a hitch type, it is vital to evaluate the weight of the trailer and the gross vehicle weight rating of the tow vehicle. Additionally, it is critical to consider the type of roads that will be traveled, as some hitches may be better suited for certain road surfaces.

For those interested in upgrading their RV, the installation of a new hitch can have a significant impact. A new hitch not only improves the safety of the RV but also enhances its overall performance.

Regardless of the type of hitch selected, it is essential to ensure that it is correctly installed and rated for the weight of the trailer being towed. With the appropriate hitch, one can guarantee the safety of the RV and its optimal performance.

How to Properly Use an RV Distribution Hitch

While using an RV distribution hitch is a relatively simple process, it is important to ensure that it is utilized appropriately. Here are some pointers for using an RV distribution hitch correctly:

  • Verify that your RV's weight is evenly distributed across the axles, not solely the rear axle.
  • Ensure that the hitch is securely fastened to both the vehicle and trailer. Also, confirm that the hitch is correctly adjusted and tightened.
  • Check if the hitch is appropriately adjusted for the weight of your RV. The hitch's weight rating should be equal to or greater than your RV's weight.
  • Check for the proper lubrication of the hitch. This will minimize friction and ensure that the hitch is functioning correctly.
  • Verify that the hitch is correctly secured. This implies that the hitch should be secured to both the RV and tow vehicle's frame.

Employing a Husky weight distribution hitch for your RV is an essential component of RV safety. It contributes to distributing the weight of your RV equally across the axles, reducing swaying and improving the overall stability of your RV.

If you want to know more about getting the right distribution hitch for your RV, give us a call at (866) 332-7881 and we’ll assist you.

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