Community Forums

fisher99 · 04-08-2015, 08:21 PM

I recently bought a new 34' travel trailer. Dry weight of 7,900 lbs. Max of 9,995. Hitch weight of 1,040. Bought an Equalizer weight distribution hitch at the same time. The truck I had at the time had a 2" receiver, but I just bought a new truck which has a 2 1/2" receiver. So here is my question: Do I need to replace my Equalizer hitch (or at least the stinger part, since it seems to be modular) or would I be ok using a sleeve that reduces the 2 1/2" receiver to 2"? These look pretty heavy duty, but I don't want to compromise my towing safety. Anybody know for sure whether it is ok to sleeve down or not?

Occupant5143 · 04-08-2015, 09:35 PM

My F250 came with such a sleeve. The ratings plate indicates that when in use the sleeve reduces the hitch weight rating from 1850 pounds down to 1250 pounds. Don't know if that really answers your question but apparently Ford doesn't have a problem with it.

Highway 4x4 · 04-08-2015, 10:53 PM

My 14 came with a sleeve. I use it with no issues. If you get a 2 1/2 inch shank and someone else has to tow your TT that could be a problem. Just make sure the sleeve does not fall out while in use,,, ))).

lynnmor · 04-09-2015, 02:07 AM

There have been reports of bent hitch pins, here's one:

Bending the Hitch Pin - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums

fisher99 · 04-09-2015, 07:14 AM

Good info. Thanks for the responses!

fisher99 · 04-09-2015, 07:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Highway 4x4

My 14 came with a sleeve. I use it with no issues. If you get a 2 1/2 inch shank and someone else has to tow your TT that could be a problem. Just make sure the sleeve does not fall out while in use,,, ))).

Well, this got me to thinking so I just went out and looked in the storage compartment under the back seat of my 2013 and, sure enough, there is a sleeve! Thanks for that tip!

sigfire · 04-09-2015, 09:34 PM

Same issue with a 3/4 ton GMC. Called etrailer and to reiterate what highway says, it's usually the pin/lock as the weak link. both GMC and etrailer said that most if not almost all the force is still on the outside 2 1/2" portion of the receiver, in which the case would be that it is being transferred from the pin/lock. make sure you just get a high quality 2 1/2" lock. Be aware that some regular 2" locks will fit. give etrailer a look for them, good resource.