For those using E2 or Equalizer WDHs

I picked up a used 8,000# E2 WDH for my new truck and trailer combo. My first experience using a weight distribution hitch was very positive but then I've never had a sway problem in nearly 50 years of pulling trailers. When we arrived at our campsite an inspection found the L bars slightly loose allowing a small amount of rotational movement. Enough movement that the friction sway control wouldn't start to work until this play was taken up. Due to the design there is little one can do to prevent this from happening. Walking around the campground I found every trailer using this design suffered the same issue and made another lap with 3/4" socket and breaker bar in hand. My first thought was to have the L bars machined to accept a tapered lug nut but finding a lugnut with coarse thread isn't easy. My simple solution which works on mine was to add an additional bolt. The difference was dramatic to say the least. I dealt with some 25 gusting to 40 MPH 90* crosswinds last week and found the rig to be have much better stability than expected. Any other ideas on how to fix this?

 

Interesting. This post made me walk outside and check mine. I just have the two bolts, but the bracket is solid as a rock with no play in it whatsoever. I used to check them with my torque wrench before trips, but I now realize I have forgotten to do that the last few times. Thankfully they're still good.

 

That's promising. I got some strange looks when I'd introduce myself and ask if I may kick their campers. Unfortunately I was rather depressed to see how many WDHs were improperly installed or adjusted. More than one had round bars that were never lubricated where they fit into the hitch. Moly grease is something I couldn't help them with.

 

Oh yeah, I had to completely redo my setup when I got the trailer home for the first time. The dealers really do just slap the hitch on and call it good. It takes some thoughtful calibration to actually get them correct. I may still adjust mine a bit more. I need to do some more measurements.