The purpose of a weight distribution hitch is to ensure the towing vehicle has a level and smooth ride. This means you are able to tow to the maximum weight capacity of your trailer hitch without the vehicle sagging or becoming difficult to handle. If the trailer weighs over 50% of the tow vehicles weight, a weight distribution hitch with sway control is recommended as it will make the towing vehicle much easier to handle.
If you require a quick answer, the best weight distribution hitch is the Blue Ox BXW1500. It clamps onto standard couplers and has a 1,500 LBS tongue weight and 15,000 LBS GTW rating. However, if you are on a tight budget, the Eaz-Lift Camco Elite is the best alternative that still features sway control.
In order to rate the weight distribution hitches within this article, we based our recommendations upon a number of factors. These included their gross trailer weight, tongue weight, build quality, features and warranty.
Table of Contents
Weight Distribution Hitch Comparison
Weight Distribution Hitch | GTW | Tongue Weight |
---|---|---|
Blue Ox BXW1500 SWAYPRO | 15,000 LBS | 1,500 LBS |
Equal-i-zer 4 Point Sway Control | 14,000 LBS | 1,400 LBS |
Eaz-Lift Camco Elite | 12,000 LBS | 1,200 LBS |
Husky 32218 Center Line | 12,000 LBS | 1,200 LBS |
Andersen MFG 3350 | 14,000 LBS | 1,400 LBS |
CURT 17063 MV | 14,000 LBS | 1,400 LBS |
Pro Series Reese 49902 | 10,000 LBS | 750 LBS |
Fastway E2 2-Point | 10,000 LBS | 1,000 LBS |
When investing into a weight distribution hitch, we highly recommend that you choose one with sway control. Reducing trailer sway makes you more relaxed whilst towing because a swaying trailer can become very dangerous and something you want to avoid.
There are two weight ratings that you must understand before purchasing a weight distribution system. These ratings include the Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) and Tongue Weight (TW). GTW is the gross weight of the trailer and its load, whereas TW is the weight of the trailer and cargo that’s behind the rear axle of your vehicle.
Below is a list of the best weight distribution hitches that include sway control and simply clamp on to most standard couplers.
The Best Weight Distribution Hitch
1. Blue Ox SWAYPRO Weight Distribution Hitch
The Blue OX SWAYPRO is a premium weight distribution hitch that includes a top of the range sway control system. In terms of the system itself, it uses chain-linked adjustable torsion bars that prevents any sway from occurring and is suitable for loads up to 15,000 LBS.
Other features of the Blue OX SWAYPRO include:
- Gross trailer weight of 15,000 LBS
- Tongue weight of 1,5000 LBS
- Pre-adjusted hitch
- Clamps straight onto most standards couplers
- Chains do not need to be removed when backing up
- Spring steel construction
- Zero additional noise when towing
Although expensive, the Blue Ox BXW1500 SWAYPRO is definitely worth paying extra. It’s the best weight distribution hitch you can buy that features an excellent sway control system and weight ratings. The brand also state that it’s compatible with most electric trailer brake controllers too.
Check it Out2. Equal-i-zer 4 Point Sway Control Hitch
The Equal-i-zer is another premium weight distribution hitch that focuses on enhanced sway control. It features a 4 point sway control system that the brand states provides the highest resistance to trailer swaying.
In terms of the specification of this weight distribution system, there are 5 options. These include hitches for 400/4,000 to 1,400/14,000 LBS (TW/GTW) trailer loads.
Other features of the Equal-i-zer 4 Point Sway Control Hitch include:
- 2 solid steel bars mounted directly onto the brackets
- Designed to work with the majority of trailers
- Includes shank with a 3 inch drop and 7 inch rise
- Fits 2 inch receivers
- Includes all the mounting hardware and accessories
Compared to the Blue Ox alternative above, it does lack the weight ratings but the Equal-i-zer excels with the impressive sway control.
Overall, it’s one the best weight distribution hitches with sway control. The Equal-i-zer’s 4 point system is the main selling point and it certainly won’t disappoint.
Check it Out3. Eaz-Lift Elite Weight Distributing Hitch
For those looking for an affordable weight distribution hitch, the Eaz-Lift Elite is the best option. Unlike other cheap hitches, this system includes everything that you require such as a sway control system.
In terms of the installation, there is no messing around with fine tuning. This is because the hitch ball and sway control ball is already pre-installed and torqued to perfection.
Other features of the Eaz-Lift Elite System include:
- 600, 800, 1,000 and 1,200 LBS tongue weight options
- Maximum GTW rating of 12,000 LBS
- Comes pre-installed and torqued to the correct settings
- Hitch ball and adjustable ball mount
- Includes a 5 year manufacturer warranty
Unlike many of the cheaper alternatives, it’s not made from cheap materials and it’s for that reason why it’s the most popular weight distribution hitch on the market. The impressive 5 year warranty also provides complete peace of mind that it’s built to a high standard too.
Check it Out4. Husky 32218 Center Line Anti Sway Hitch
The Husky 32218 is another popular option as it combines weight distribution and sway control into a single unit. In terms of the specification, it has a gross trailer weight rating of 12,000 LBS and tongue weight capacity of 1,200 LBS, which is perfect for most trailers.
In order to easily install this hitch, the brand uses a universal EZ adjust frame bracket. This makes any adjustments much easier whilst setting up your trailer.
Other features of the Husky 32218 Anti Sway Hitch include:
- Forged and hardened steel construction
- Hitch ball is pre-installed and torqued correctly
- Simply bolts on with zero noise issues
- 38 inch long bars
- Much lighter than other hitches
Thanks to the design and hardware such as lift brackets, head and spring bars, the ride is quiet, smooth and highly responsive. Although more expensive than some of the alternatives, it’s a worthwhile investment because you are paying for the enhanced design and superior build quality.
Check it Out5. Andersen MFG 3350 No Sway Weight Distribution Hitch
The Anderson weight distribution hitch uses chains to attach to the brackets instead of solid bars. This makes it lightweight and the brand even claim that it’s the quietest chained option on the market.
For those worried about the bouncing effect whilst towing, this kit uses a “true motion” dampening system. This results in limited noise and low levels of bounce, which ensures that the ride is as smooth and comfortable.
Other features of the Andersen MFG 3350 No Sway include:
- Limited noise and low levels of bounce
- GTW of 14,000 LBS and tongue weight of 1,400 LBS
- Includes 2 5/16 inch hitch ball
- Grease-free system for minimal maintenance
- Can be used as a standard tow hitch
Overall, the Andersen MFG 3350 is the quietest weight distribution hitch you can buy and also offers excellent weight capacities that can deal with a range of trailer loads. It also benefits from being able to be used as a standard ball mount without the weight distribution.
Check it Out6. CURT Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch
CURT is a major brand in the towing industry and their round bar weight distribution hitch is a cost effective solution. It’s compatible with most 2 inch hitch receivers and 2-5/16 inch balls to provide smooth hauling of loads up to 14,000 LBS.
A unique feature of this CURT weight distribution hitch is the continuous lubrication. This clever design ensures that the hitch remains smooth and quiet whilst towing. It’s made possible by the hitch head having two easy access zerk fittings.
Other features of the CURT 17063 MV Round Bar include:
- 10,000 to 14,000 LBS GTW
- 1,000 to 1,400 LBS tongue weight rating
- Integrated lubrication system
- Carbide black powder coated finish
- All mounting hardware and accessories included
- Hitch ball comes torqued correctly
The CURT 17063 is an excellent all-round weight distribution hitch that has been developed by the reputable CURT brand. It’s also been built to last with a heavy duty construction, corrosion resistant finish and continuous lubrication.
7. Pro Series Reese 49902 Weight Distribution Kit
Another popular option built by a reputable brand is the Pro Series Reese 49902 kit. Included within the complete package is everything you require to improve your towing experience and it also comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
To ensure that trailer sway is eliminated, the sway control ball is pre-installed and torqued ready for use straightaway.
Other features of the Pro Series Reese 49902 include:
- GTW of 10,000 LBS and tongue weight of 750 LBS
- Fabricated head and welded hitch bar
- Pre-installed and torqued sway control ball, U-bolts and chains
- Easy to install with provided instructions
- Limited lifetime warranty
The Pro Series Reese 49902 offers excellent value for money and is a weight distribution with sway control that won’t disappoint. It does have limitations in terms of the GTW and TW but this is to be expected for a budget option.
Check it Out8. Fastway E2 2-Point Anti Sway Hitch
Another affordable weight distribution hitch that features sway control is the Fastway E2. It’s available in three round bar options that have a weight capacity that ranges from 6,000 to 10,000 LBS to best suit your towing requirements.
The built-in 2 point sway control also allows you to setup and adjust the system more easily without having the hassle of add-on sway bars.
Other features of the Fastway E2 2-Point Anti Sway Hitch include:
- GTW of 10,000 LBS and tongue weight of 1,000 LBS
- No backing or turning restrictions
- Trunnion and round bar models available
- Rigid brackets for continuous sway control
- 10 year limited warranty
The Fastway E2 2-Point Anti Sway Hitch is an excellent all-round option that’s built to high standards. For complete peace of mind, the brand also offer a 10 year limited warranty with this kit.
Check it OutHow We Rated The Weight Distribution Hitches
Purchasing a weight distribution hitch can be a large investment and its worthwhile spending your time to find the best. In order to rate the recommendations within this article, we considered a number of factors. These included their gross trailer weight, tongue weight, build quality, features and warranty.
Weight Distribution Hitch Buying Guide
If you are towing heavy trailers with big loads, a weight distribution hitch should be used. It provides a smoother ride that won’t suffer from trailer sway, bad steering or poor stopping abilities. If your trailers weight is over 50% of your towing vehicles weight, you should use a weight distributing system.
When you are towing a trailer, the tongue weight is transferred to the rear axle of your towing vehicle, which results in the rear sagging and the front raising. This causes performance issues with the car and it won’t handle as it should. Steering, braking, traction and other issues become apparent and for long journeys, it can be very tiresome and dangerous.
To help you make an informed buying decision, we have produced the below guide regarding weight distribution hitches.
How Does Weight Distribution Work?
Spring bars leverage each side of your system by transferring the load that pushes down at the rear of the tow vehicle to all the axles of both the trailer and vehicle. The result is an even distribution with no sagging of the rear of the tow vehicle whatsoever and a completely smooth ride.
Below are some of the signs that you need a weight distribution hitch:
- Rear is sagging
- Front is raised
- Steering or braking is difficult
- Large amount of trailer sway
- Trailer weight is over 50% of the vehicles weight
Some vehicles may have a hydraulic or air rear suspension, which can level the rear of the car. This is a great feature but if you have a trailer that’s over 50% of the weight of the tow car, it’s still highly recommended.
It’s required not only for performance purposes but also to take some of the slack of your car’s rear suspension. This is because most hydraulic or air suspension systems can be expensive to repair.
What is Sway Control?
You will notice that all the weight distribution hitch recommendations have a sway control system. The is because trailer sway can be worrying and easily caused from passing other vehicles, crosswinds, bad spring bar tension, poor trailer loading and other reasons. The majority of weight distribution hitches use the following built-in systems as sway control:
- 2 point
- Friction
- Dual cam
- 4 point
All the recommendations above are weight distribution hitches with sway control built in, which means there is no need to install it separately.
Trailer sway isn’t fun and it’s a bad experience that can put you off towing for good. If sway control is your main priority, we highly recommend the Equal-i-zer as it has the best sway control with a 4 point system.
Swing Bars
The swing bars are a major component of any weight distribution kit and without them, it would be impossible to leverage the weight. There are however two types of swing bars, which include rounded swing bars and trunnion swing bars.
The benefit of rounded swing bars are that they are easier to install, setup and also provide much more clearance. However, the trunnion swing bar alternative provides a much higher weight rating, which is a big requirement for many.
Weight Capacity Ratings
In the table at the beginning of this article, you will notice that each weight distribution hitch has a tongue weight and gross trailer weight rating. Usually, the tongue weight is around 10 to 15% of the gross trailer weight.
The gross trailer weight (GTW) is the easiest to define and is quite simply the total weight of the trailer that includes the load on the trailer too.
Tongue weight (TW) is the weight that’s behind the axle of the towing vehicle and too much of this weight causes the towing vehicle to sag. Too little tongue weight makes the trailer more prone to swaying and jack knifing.
Finding the perfect GTW or TW is dependent upon what you intend on loading upon your trailer. However, a weight distribution hitch with sway control is the answer to conquering all these dangerous scenarios and ensures you have a smooth ride.
If the GTW of the distribution systems are too little for what you intend to be towing, then there is an alternative. A 5th wheel hitch can be used to tow trailers as heavy as 25,000 LBS but it will require a truck to be able to install such a hitch.
Conclusion
Towing anything on the open road needs to be done with great caution. Upgrading from a standard trailer hitch to a weight distribution hitch system is highly recommended for heavy loads.
Trailer sway is a worrying thought regardless of your towing experience because at any moment during the sway, you may lose control of your vehicle.
Along with purchasing a weight distribution hitch, you should also be looking at sway control systems. All of the hitches in this article have them built-in but many don’t, so if you do not go with one of the above, be sure to read the full specification.
Once you have your weight distribution hitch installed, remember to use a trailer hitch lock to secure the load and ensure it has been tuned properly. Many come with pre-installed hitches that require no tuning, which can make installation far easier.