We know what's right, but we're notorious for doing what's wrong. For example, when towing we've been known to hook a trailer to the back of a truck that isn't quite equipped for the weight. Of course, we make sure the engine and transmission can pull it, the brakes can stop it (trailer brakes are a must), and the weight rating is within spec. The problem arises when hooking a heavy trailer up to a half-ton truck or SUV with a soft rear suspension (rear coil springs especially). The next thing you know the headlights are pointed to the sky. This is where a weight-distributing hitch saves the day.
The coil-sprung suspension...
The coil-sprung suspension on the back of our half-ton '09 Dodge Ram and Toyota Land Cruiser rides great, but sags out with the weight of a trailer and trail rig behind it. The Valley Industry weight-distributing hitch uses long spring bars that attach to the truck at the ball mount and to the trailer behind the hitch.
Valley Industry makes everything you need for towing. Valley quickly set us straight (and level) with its Trunion Style weight-distribution hitch. A weight-distributing hitch is a strange apparatus that, in effect, shores up the coupling between the truck and trailer so it cannot droop down, but it still allows the truck and trailer to turn left and right. This results in a more level and controlled load and safer towing.
At the end of the spring bars...
At the end of the spring bars are chains that run up to the trailer lift bracket. To install the chains you first hook up the trailer ball, lock it, and then lower the trailer jack to raise the back of the truck slightly, then hook the chains and pivot up to the lift bracket on the trailer frame. Then raise the jack. The spring bars should be level and supporting the weight of the front of the trailer.
You'll still run safety chains...
You'll still run safety chains (crisscrossed under the hitch) and locking pins on the lift brackets, but now you won't notice the nose-up driving style of before.
A weight-distributing hitch...
A weight-distributing hitch redirects the weight back to the truck and trailer tires evenly instead of just to the rear tires of the truck. This helps with steering and braking your trailer load.