Weight Distribution Hitches

Weight distribution shanks form part of a weight distribution hitch system, providing the mounting point used to position compatible hitch components at the required height. Available in different configurations and drop dimensions, the correct shank helps match the towing setup to the relative height of the tow vehicle and trailer coupling.

Choosing a weight distribution shank requires more than selecting the largest available drop. The shank, hitch system, towbar, vehicle and trailer all need to be compatible, appropriately rated and suitable for the intended towing setup.

What Is a Weight Distribution Shank?

A weight distribution shank is the component that connects a compatible weight distribution hitch head to the towbar receiver. Its design allows the hitch head to be positioned at an appropriate height for the trailer coupling.

Depending on the shank design, multiple mounting positions may provide adjustment so the hitch head can be raised or lowered relative to the receiver.

This adjustment is particularly useful where there is a difference between the height of the vehicle's receiver and the trailer coupling. The required position depends on the complete towing setup rather than vehicle height alone.

The shank itself is only one component of a weight distribution system. It does not provide weight distribution independently and should be used only with compatible towing equipment.

How Does a Weight Distribution Hitch Work?

A weight distribution hitch uses leverage to redistribute some of the load acting through the trailer coupling across the vehicle and trailer combination.

When a trailer applies load to the rear of the tow vehicle, the rear suspension can compress while load at the front axle can change. A correctly specified and adjusted weight distribution system uses spring bars and the hitch assembly to alter how these loads are distributed.

A weight distribution hitch for a caravan or other compatible trailer is therefore primarily a load-distribution and levelling system.

It should not be confused with sway control. Trailer sway is a separate towing behaviour with multiple possible causes, and a weight distribution system should not automatically be described as a device that prevents or significantly reduces sway unless the particular system incorporates a separate function specifically designed for that purpose.

A weight distribution hitch also does not increase the towing capacity of the vehicle, towbar or trailer. All applicable towing and component limits still need to be observed.

Types of Weight Distribution Shanks

Weight distribution shanks can vary in dimensions, adjustment range, mounting pattern and rating.

An adjustable weight distribution shank can provide several mounting positions for a compatible hitch head, allowing its height to be configured for the towing setup.

The correct shank depends on the amount of rise or drop required as well as compatibility with the receiver and weight distribution system.

Standard Drop Shanks

A standard drop shank provides a range of mounting positions for applications where the difference between receiver and coupling height falls within the shank's available adjustment.

The actual adjustment range should be checked using the specifications of the individual product rather than assuming all standard shanks provide the same dimensions.

The shank must also match the receiver, hitch head and required ratings of the towing system.

150mm Drop Shanks

A 150mm drop shank provides additional vertical positioning where a greater difference exists between the towbar receiver and the required hitch-head position.

The term refers to the shank's dimensional configuration rather than an indication that every towing setup requires the full amount of drop.

A larger tow hitch drop should only be selected when the towing geometry requires it. The correct hitch-head position should be established from the vehicle and trailer setup rather than choosing a longer shank simply for additional adjustment.

Choosing the Right Shank Drop and Rating

Selecting a weight distribution shank starts with the tow vehicle and trailer in their intended towing configuration.

The required rise or drop depends on the relationship between the towbar receiver and trailer coupling. Vehicle load, trailer load and ride height can influence this relationship, so measurements should reflect the realistic towing setup rather than an unloaded combination that will change significantly once prepared for travel.

Before choosing a shank, check:

• The receiver size and configuration
• Compatibility with the weight distribution hitch head
• The rise or drop required for the trailer coupling
• The adjustment range of the shank
• The rating of the shank and associated hitch components
• The towbar's specifications and limitations
• Vehicle and trailer towing limits
• The actual towing configuration and expected load

The lowest applicable limit within the towing combination still needs to be observed. Fitting a higher-rated shank does not increase the capacity of a towbar, vehicle or other towing component.

Compatibility and Legal Considerations

A weight distribution hitch is not suitable for every towing combination. Before fitting a weight distribution system or replacement shank, check the vehicle manufacturer's towing information and the specifications of the towbar, hitch system and trailer.

The towbar itself needs to be suitable for use with a weight distribution system. Some vehicle or towing equipment manufacturers may place restrictions on weight distribution hitch use, so compatibility should be confirmed rather than assumed.

Trailer coupling and braking arrangements also need to be considered. Some coupling or brake systems may not be suitable for use with certain weight distribution systems.

Australian towing connections and towbar installations are also subject to applicable vehicle standards and regulations, including requirements associated with ADR 62. Check the relevant product documentation, towbar information and vehicle requirements for the particular setup rather than assuming that one shank or hitch configuration satisfies every application.

A weight distribution shank should therefore be chosen as one part of a compliant and compatible towing system, not as an isolated accessory.

Setup, Adjustment and Maintenance

Correct setup is important for a weight distribution system to operate as intended. The vehicle and trailer should be assessed in a representative towing condition, including the loads normally carried. Hitch height and weight distribution settings can then be established according to the instructions for the particular system and the requirements of the vehicle and towbar.

If the trailer load changes substantially, the setup may need to be checked again. Adjusting spring bar tension or hitch position without considering the actual load can result in an inappropriate setup.

The shank and associated hitch components should also be inspected periodically. Check for visible damage, cracking, deformation, unusual wear, corrosion and excessive movement around mounting holes or fasteners. Pins, clips and other securing hardware should also be checked for condition and correct installation.

A weight distribution hitch should not be used to disguise an unsuitable or overloaded towing setup. If the vehicle sits incorrectly, handling changes or the system cannot be adjusted within its specified range, the complete towing combination should be assessed rather than continuing to increase adjustment.

Find Weight Distribution Shanks for Your Vehicle

The right weight distribution shank depends on your towbar receiver, hitch system, required rise or drop, trailer setup and applicable ratings. Professional assistance can be particularly useful for weight distribution equipment because hitch height, compatibility and the complete towing setup need to be considered rather than the shank alone.

A weight distribution hitch needs a towbar rated for the job, so check our heavy duty towbars and tow ball mounts and pintle hooks as well.

Start with Fulcrum's online search and check the individual product specifications before ordering. If you're unsure about shank dimensions or compatibility, contact Fulcrum and we can assist with product and fitment information before purchase.