pthomann, setting up the hitch is not hard, just time consuming, the first time you do it.
Get the truck and trailer on level ground and level the trailer while unhitched. Have the trailer loaded as for a typical trip.
Measure the height of the trailer coupler and set the hitch height on the truck so that it is slightly higher (1/2" to 1") higher. Tilt the hitch head back toward the trailer a little to start with.
Now find a easy to measure point on each fender well on the truck and measure the height from the ground with the trailer unhitched. Record the numbers.
Now raise the coupler and put it over the ball, lower and latch. Now lift the truck and trailer about 3 inches and latch your chains in place...should have 5 or 6 links under tension as a starting point. Lower the jack and see how it sets.
Check the fender well measurements and now them. You are trying to get the truck to squat the same front and rear. More to the rear, but you want to transfer some of the weight to the front axle as well.
The trailer should be level and the WD bars nearly parallel to the ground.
If the front of the truck dropped more than the rear, let up a link on the chains. If the rear dropped and front did not, tilt the hitch head more toward the trailer.
Keep working back and forth until you get it dialed in.
Once you get it leveled, mark that link with a plastic tie or paint.
Ken
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Amateur Radio Operator (KE5DFR)|No Longer Full-Time! - 2023 Cougar 22MLS toted by 2022 F150, 3.5L EcoBoost Tow Max FX4 Lariat Travel with one Standard Schnauzer and one small Timneh African Gray Parrot, retired mechanical engineer
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