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Old 05-09-2012, 12:19 PM   #1
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Any need to use my equalizers anymore?

I just upgraded to a F250 (with a 350 spring package). When I hook up my 7,000 lb travel trailer, there is hardly any noticeable dip. I don't know my tongue weight.

Should I continue to use my equalizers? Is there something I am not thinking about by not using them?
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Old 05-09-2012, 12:41 PM   #2
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My truck has no dip with the tt but I still use the bars it dosent jeark the truck as bad when you go over bumbs and it dosent sway with the bars
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Old 05-09-2012, 01:04 PM   #3
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Check the sticker on your hitch receiver and/or your owner's manual. There are two sets of limits for towed weight and hitch weight. The higher limits are for use with your load equalizing bars. The lower limits are for a pure weight bearing application where equalization is not used. If you don't use the bars, the lower weight bearing limits will apply, and you may find that you're over your hitch receiver ratings.

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Old 05-09-2012, 04:04 PM   #4
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Quote:
Originally Posted by bpendley View Post
Should I continue to use my equalizers?
Yes.

Quote:
Is there something I am not thinking about by not using them?
Probably. Depending on your anti-sway system. You definitely want the anti-sway system active. Some WD hitches such as the Reese Dual Cam require the equalizer bars to be connected so the anti-sway system will work.

Also, when you don't have the equalizer bars connected, the weight on the front axle of the tow vehicle is reduced, so you have less postive steering control.

And what Rusty said. Your hitch weight is probably over 800 pounds. Your receiver is probably rated for a max of 600 pounds hitch weight without a weight-destributing hitch. So you receiver would be severely overloaded and therefour dangerous.
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Old 05-10-2012, 09:24 AM   #5
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Thank you!
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Old 05-10-2012, 03:33 PM   #6
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I recently watched a video where a 1ton was pulling a TT without a equalizer hitch and the wind literally blew the trailer on its side on the highway. While not its intended design, I do believe that the extra connection points also apply counter torque in high winds. Could be wrong.
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Old 05-10-2012, 08:07 PM   #7
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Use the WD hitch. It transfers some of the weight to the front axle on the truck to help steering and it also rides better with the WD bars in place.

Ken
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