The Difference Between Using Weight Distribution and Air Bags to Level Your Load

Fastway engineers Jason Harper and Matt Barnes investigate the difference between using either a rear axle air bag system, or a weight distribution hitch to level your load and take the sag out of the rear of the tow vehicle.
Which is better, air bags or weight distribution? Watch and see!
For more information about the e2 sway control / weight distribution hitch visit:
fstwy.co/e2
fstwy.co/e2-hitch-video

[@user-tr6sw3zn6u]

Hi, can you confirm the overall combined weight increases when using the WDH compared to using no other devices for levelling vehicle??

[@FastwayTrailer]

When looking at the overall combined weight for the “coupled”, “leveled with airbags”, and “weight distribution” setups - the resulting totals were 11,695, 11,715, and 11,720 lbs. The difference in these numbers is attributed to the precision and accuracy of the wheel scales that we used and is within 0.2%. Being within 0.2% when the precision/accuracy errors of 8 different scales are added together is quite good - especially for our purposes in this demonstration of general principles. Admittedly however, there are some typos and a mistake in the numbers shown which do account for some discrepancies. One of the mistakes is with the baseline trailer axles number which then carries through in the math throughout the video. With the trailer uncoupled we used an additional scale under the jack when measuring the tongue and axle weights. There is a conversion that then needs to be done to get the exact weight at the hitch ball coupler location. We used the converted (actual) tongue weight of 1000 lbs. in the video but forgot to use the converted axle weight. So, the uncoupled or baseline trailer axle number given is 70 lbs. less than the actual. Also, we didn’t add the weight of the spring bars (35 lbs.) to the uncoupled total. With these two corrections the “uncoupled” combined weight should have been 11,690, only 5 pounds different from the “coupled” combined total. The additional discrepancy is due to the precision and inaccuracy of that tongue weight scale that we used. At minute 12:17 in the video - the correct increases to the trailer axles should be 295 lbs. for weight distribution (instead of 365) and 55 lbs. for the airbags (instead of 125). For the airbags, that trailer axle difference should theoretically be zero when leveled. The reason it’s not is due to the trailer not being at the exact same level/angle and the scale precision/accuracy. As the trailer tips down in front then the front axle of the trailer will take a slight bit more load from the tongue weight. In the weight distribution example, some of that weight difference would also be from the trailer angle and scales then also some from spring bar weight. The majority (~250 lbs.) is from the forces of the bars on the trailer for weight distribution. In spite of some unfortunate presentation mistakes in the video, those errors only affect the magnitude of the effects which will be different for each towing setup anyway. The general principles remain the same - 1) Even though airbags are good for vehicle leveling and ride comfort, they do not distribute weight off the rear axle back to the front axle nor achieve all the towing benefits that come with weight distribution and its inherent sway control 2) Weight distribution increases front axle weight for improved steering and handling and also alleviates the weight and stress on the rear axle of the tow vehicle 3) Because weight distribution also levels the vehicles, airbags usually are not necessary when using a weight distributing hitch. Final note, airbags or auto-leveling can be used with weight distribution to improve ride comfort if desired or if auto-leveling cannot be disabled on the vehicle. Keep in mind that increasing airbag pressure or auto-leveling after setting the hitch will decrease weight distribution. Measure the amount of weight distribution after leveling the vehicle and adjust the hitch as needed to maintain the appropriate amount of weight distribution. Refer to the following video for more tips on adjusting your hitch when using airbags or auto-leveling in conjunction with weight distribution - kzbin.info/www/bejne/o5uVoKR3ntGnqc0.

[@miccap8612]

@FastwayTrailer yes, i have found the same, thx

[@busyflyin]

I retired as an engineering manager from one of the popular air bag companies. I was pretty nervous about where you were going with this, but I say bravo and well done! Air helper springs do not solve weight distribution problems, and WD bars do not solve the problem of sagging springs. Unfortunately, both industries advertise differently. I want to comment on the application of the air springs.. when the air is pressure is proper, the frequency of the bouncing will be acceptable to the driver and passengers. A slow deep bounce means under inflation. A fast harsh bounce/ride probably means over inflation. It requires trial and error to find the correct combination of air pressure and adjustment to the WD bars. Another point I want to drive is that the air springs must not be carrying the full weight of the load..it will create undo stress on the frame and an unbalance suspension. Always readjust the WD bars after adjusting the air pressure, and vise versa. Once you figure it out, you should be good unless you make changes to the load ie: you put your motorcycle in the back of the truck, etc. thanks!

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thank you so much for the comment, especially the great advice on getting the proper pressure in the air bags for the best ride and the caution about carrying the full load, as we get a lot of questions about the air bag inflation in the comments here. Thanks for watching, and please, feel free to weigh in again anytime!

[@artemusburton4824]

I was just gonna ask if you used both how that makes a difference if you use the airbags with the weight distribution hitch what does that do you know the guys should do a video on that as well.

[@sjf67gto]

Good video, you addressed each system but you never addressed using the two together I have an F250 that doesn't have overloads and I'm using airbags as overloads I'm planning on towing a trailer with a slide in camper on my truck can I or should I use weight distribution and airbags?

[@RVTRAILER]

Well thank you, I just cancelled my air bag installation at a workshop 30 mins ago based on this video because the RV dealer has installed an expensive, higher weight rated Reese WD hitch on my new 31ft travel trailer which weighs 7600Lbs loaded. I think I'd better stick with the science and data shown in this video than having both airbag and WD combined because it won't help at all. A solid educated decision made and thanks to your video for that.

[@gerrymiller7401]

I use a WD hitch WITH airbags on my half ton. It eliminates any bounce you may encounter driving on bad highways. They work great together.

[@voltron2127]

I’m thinking of getting airbags for my 1500 Sierra but I have one question, when not towing do those airbags running on 5 psi make your ride quality worse? I’ve heard the ride quality is very bouncy when not towing.

[@mikemccarthy6939]

No it’s actually better

[@michaelsilva2310]

What PSI do you run in your bags?

[@jeffgriffith6240]

I’ve discovered the air bags and WD hitch working boy together works great together. Now I have upgraded the braking on my truck on all 4 wheels and on the trailer brakes.

[@Roadglide911]

I used both and it worked great.

[@davesrvchannel4717]

I made a video explaining that if you have a heavy pulling vehicle and a light trailer, you should NEVER use a WD hitch because weight will distribute from pulling vehicle back to the trailer. Keep in mind, some small travel trailers can only accept #500 of cargo. Therefore a WD hitch can be a bad thing in some cases. I got called a liar and many other terms, even though my info came from Reese Hitch engineer. I am so glad an engineer is testing it right in front of everyone's eyes with scales and tape measures etc. I do my best to educate others and get educated myself. Thanks for the video, it is very informative, and clear! This video clearly shows a WD hitch can send weight to the trailer axle causing it to be overloaded.

[@FastwayTrailer]

This is kind of a complex principle to explain, but we’ll do our best. You are correct that in theory it is possible to overload the trailer axles when using a weight distribution hitch, and that it is more likely to happen with a smaller trailer having a lower gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). However, this could only happen in practice if the weight distribution hitch has been set up to be over-adjusted. In this scenario, the hitch would have to be set up in such a way that enough weight is being lifted off of the rear axle of the tow vehicle that the portion of this weight NOT being therefore carried by the front axle of the tow vehicle, when added to the trailer’s gross vehicle weight (GVW) would cause it to exceed the axle rating. For example: a trailer with a GVWR of 3,000 lb, loaded close to capacity at 2,900 lb, with the hitch adjusted in such a way that it is lifting 600 lb from the rear axle of the tow vehicle, where 400 lb of this weight is then carried by the front axle of the tow vehicle, and 200 lb is carried by the trailer’s axle. In this case, the GVW of the trailer at 3,100 lb would exceed the GVWR of 3,000 lb. You can see by the example that this would be a difficult and unlikely scenario to achieve, though it is possible to achieve. Thank you for watching, and for the thought provoking comment! We’re glad it was helpful for you.

[@brianw612]

I use both! The bags kick the bouncing. I tow a 35 foot travel trailer and always use weight distribution with anti sway and put 35 PSI in my bags.

[@paxnune6368]

I also use both, my father used both.

[@brianbong5803]

I have both air bags on my truck and a weight distributing hitch with my enclosed race car trailer. Best of both worlds.

[@josephbrockman5715]

I was curious of this as well. Did you setup the bags first then the WDH? Thanks

[@ernestoalicea4594]

@@josephbrockman5715 I had bags first for the weight I carry in work tools so every trailer over a certain weight needs by law for distribution set on the trailer just like tow mirrors are law for length .. like ol' boy said best of both worlds.. I still need to dial in the distribution bars torsion then dial in the bags ...

[@kctrinh]

Great video even at 7 yrs old... now it would be nice to do an updated video using both WDH & Airbags

[@FastwayTrailer]

Great suggestion!

[@STUDLEE1A]

Would love to see this!

[@gordonvanlieshout8134]

I used both. Firestone air and equalizer weight distribution hitch on a 09 RAV4 v6 wtp. Towing 3500lb. Set up by RV company. Handled beautifully on 5900 mile trip. No sway handling problems. Car and trailer are level. Very happy with rear view camera set up while towing also.

[@genecoppedge5972]

Very scientific, I just priced your intercomp wireless scales kit at $9,918.00. Thank you for making this video We appreciate your dedication and professionalism. I would’ve liked to have seen you move the weight in the trailer back and forth and see the difference and also with the weight directly above the axles.

[@georgiafan6618]

Painstaking review that took the time to prove results by weighing the vehicle AND trailer. No one does that. I’d have guessed the airbags would be superior but the much less expensive distribution hitch clearly came out on top. I pulled a 22’ work trailer with the distribution hitch and I could barely feel it back there. I had to check my rear view to see if it was still there. 👍 Great job guys!

[@igotajopamerica3040]

Great video. I really would of loved to see the numbers at the end if you would of filled the air bags to get the rear back to "zero"level with the using both to together.

[@fireskull3172]

Exactly, great video but I would like to know if air bags would help coupled with the weight distribution hitch.

[@jasonh2832]

The more you use the air bags to raise the rear the more load it takes off the weight distribution hitch. Therefore, it reduces weight on the front axle and increases weight on the rear axle. Check out this follow up video for more numbers and details - kzbin.info/www/bejne/o5uVoKR3ntGnqc0.

[@gregorypecaut7164]

@@jasonh2832 properly set up, the wd, then yes you could finish off the leveling with air suspension, however this will require a different set up of the wd. It will need to be about one link tighter. Your weight distribution will be the same, you'll loose that 1/4" squat, and the ride will be smoother. I'm a proponent of using both. Along with Timbren stops to smooth out hard bumps, and reduce roll. And don't forget good trailer brakes too.

[@campingwithcarter8054]

That’s what I said

[@everdelatorre]

@@jasonh2832 I have both airbags and e2 distribution hitch, my question is what should my airbag pressure be before I setup my e2 hitch?

[@omarnait7709]

Thank you guys for the clarification. Very helpful 7 years later 🤗

[@FastwayTrailer]

Glad to help!

[@t7pastorini]

Best explanation I have seen yet with scientific testing methods. For anyone that challenges me, I will make them watch this.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Glad it was helpful!

[@waynepowell567]

Excellent video dispelling many myths and urban legends. This is perhaps the BEST video made on this subject and is truly very much appreciated by all who watch it. Thanks for taking the time and making the effort to clarify one of the most stubborn questions out there. Very nicely done guys. Thanks again .

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thanks +Wayne Powell! Glad it was helpful.

[@waynepowell567]

The thanks goes to all who made this possible. Again a very educating video. facts are facts.

[@Domiano542]

This is the best video explaining both the Distribution hitch & airbags. Thank you

[@reneemartin3354]

That was a great explanation and graphics! The teacher in me loved it and it answered questions I have had about WDH. Thanks!

[@chrisneuhaus7188]

Great demonstration guys. Many struggle with these options and you made it perfectly clear.

[@dptp9lf]

I haul different types of RV's so i need both air bags and bars. When i pull a TT i use bars mostly when weather is good but in winter driving i lighten the bar load and put more on the air bags... i like more weight on drive axle. Also, some jurisdictions require equalizers. What i like about the air bags is that the handling is better with less sway. This is great info especially for someone that pulls the same trailer(s) regularly.

[@earthquake62098]

Weight distribution hitches are great but I have air bags because Weight distribution hitches don't do anything for me when I am NOT towing and I have my truck bed full of dirtbikes or construction supplies.

[@brubaker5555]

A great demonstration of the value of WD vs Airbag. Having just moved from and F250 to an F350 Dually, my first tow without WD was very disappointing! Adding the WD was a game changer. Thanks for explaining why!

[@FastwayTrailer]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching!

[@patbramble8958]

I have the Equalizer hitch system for my Toyhauler. I was looking at getting bags but have decided against it after seeing this video.

[@sajeshenampurath2858]

Awesome job with this video! Loved the simple and clear explanation of how weight moves around with those simple diagrams. Thank you for taking time and sharing this information with us. Appreciate it!

[@FastwayTrailer]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching.

[@aviationresults2292]

This is the most informative video I've seen on the subject. Numbers don't lie, great job!

[@FastwayTrailer]

Glad it was helpful!

[@lifehunter6426]

This was.very helpful to me as I bought a toy hauler today and am pulling it with an 06 Jeep Grand Cherokee with a 5.7 Hemi. The power is there but the tongue weight is very heavy for this vehicle. The dealer suggested air bags or a WDH but wasn't sure which one was best. Now I know. Thank you so much.

[@FastwayTrailer]

You're welcome! We are happy to help! Thanks for watching!

[@profitnesstexas3879]

Thanks for making this video. It really helped understand how load weight distribution works. 4 year old video still helping people ovoid accidents 👍

[@FastwayTrailer]

Glad you like it! Thanks for watching! We've got a new video about auto leveling suspension and weight distribution coming soon!

[@mattb.6057]

The best part of this comment section is all the critical (smart ass) commentary being met with inarguable physics and substantive demonstrations leaving the arrogant know-it-all with no further debate.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thanks for the compliment +Matt Bergstrom.

[@CBillR600RR]

What a awesome video. Thanks for taking the time to create this.

[@MySgriblo]

Excellent video on a ,at least for me,confusing topic. I now have a solid understanding of the differences between the two. Thank you for a clear,concise video!

[@FastwayTrailer]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching!

[@WrenchSense]

Great video guys! Glad to see that people are watching it. Kudos to you sirs.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thank you!

[@seckvahl]

This was so helpful. We are going to be buying a trailer to tow with our Ram 1500 4x4. This illustrated weight distribution in a way I could understand it!

[@wowitslou]

Awesome video thanks for taking the time to make it, answered a lot of my questions.

[@andycason1560]

Not sure why we have negative comments on here. Test was simple and proving a particular point. I am sure you could have done a video an hour long to go into airbag/distribution bars combo.....tire pressure changes needed for proper handling on trailer and tow vehicle..... and proper trailer loading. Thanks for the video.

[@FastwayTrailer]

You're welcome! We're glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching!

[@elektronen]

Awesome and detailed video, and particularly useful in explaining why air bags alone don't help much. In my experience towing with a minivan, air bags reduce vertical motion when going over dips, and spare the rear suspension some travel. However, there are negatives with air bags that aren't as frequently discussed: they make for a more jarring ride by passing more road vibration to the vehicle and hitch assembly, and the fundamental issue with dramatically different axle weights between rear and front remains unchanged. Thanks!

[@FastwayTrailer]

elektronen Thanks for the compliment, and for sharing your experience with us!

[@itsallaboutshelby]

Great illustration. Thanks for the work. I realize this is an older video but still very relevant still.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Glad it was helpful!

[@lobbyrobby]

Excellent video! Thank you making this. I just bought a e2 hitch and I'm thinking about buying a RAS.

[@3LPONC3]

I just bought my first travel trailer, I was about to buy air bags. You just save me time and money! Excellent video.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Glad I could help!

[@hoobeydoobey1267]

Thank you! This is much needed. Too many are quick to say air bags, which from my research are not the answer but a bandaid to sag and not weight. Your test affirmed that and proved what works and what is merely a superficial fix. Glad I bought a WDH.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Glad it was helpful!

[@hoobeydoobey1267]

@@FastwayTrailer Just like your products - helpful!

[@chrisstevens-oy3rh]

Excellent video. Alot of people who tow trailers wouldn't realise including myself.

[@roryolson61]

Great video and excellent explanation and illustration of the difference. I'll be getting the WDS before I set out with my toyhauler, Harley loaded!

[@sonofnorth666]

Excellent video, thanks for the work put into it.

[@chrismccomb3240]

Excellent video. This is exactly the comparison I was looking for.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Glad it was helpful!

[@marksalot655]

Well done and very helpful video. Thanks!

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thank you Marks Alot And, you're welcome!

[@davidlong1527]

Very informative. Best video on the subject.

[@garryhammond3117]

Great video to illustrate each system's attributes. I have a GMC Sierra 1500 with a ~7000lb TT. I have both the Equalizer. and the Air Bags (Firestone). This combination works very well for me. The WD hitch does the brunt of the work, and I use the air bags mostly when driving at night to level the projector headlamps (if needed). The airbags do aid in uncoupling the hitch as well, especially if on rough terrain (to lift up the rear of the truck). I have almost NO sway issues (so happy!). Thanks! Garry (Ottawa, Canada)

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thanks +Garry Hammond, sounds like you have a great setup!

[@z50king29]

Great video! We got an 2500 and still use the weight system!

[@michaelhall6721]

Excellent study gentlemen. You took all the 'personal opinion' out of the question...just what everyone really needs.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thank you! Thanks for watching!

[@mciaknetu]

Wonderfully informational, and professional 👏 you answered so many questions and saved me lots of money. You just can't beat actual testing. Thank you fastway.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thanks for watching!

[@carabooseOG]

An excellent comparison. Thank you guys. I hope this clears up information for others.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thanks +caraboose We're glad you liked it!

[@suzanneschristie]

Jason is a natural! ;) Great video guys, thank you so much! I was about to make a big mistake.

[@FastwayTrailer]

He's great! Thanks for watching!

[@Bunkysworkshop]

I use the Equalizer tow hitch and do like it. Easy to use and the anti-sway works very well.

[@armstronglance]

Thanks for the post! I wondered how the weight distribution system worked. We sold our motorhome and are buying an RV trailer, so I'm viewing all the videos like yours. 👍😎

[@FastwayTrailer]

+armstronglance, Thanks! Glad they are helpful.

[@nela5596]

Great video man!! Need more videos like this Most ppl don’t even know or care how to set up. 👍

[@NYVET48TFW]

Air bags are ABSOLUTELY NOT a replacement for weight-distribution hitches! You may not sag in the rear, but you're still pivoting that weight onto the back axle and OFF of the front...the STEERING axle. Amazes me how many stupid people are towing shit around, an accident waiting to happen. You're the first guys to actually provide an accurate, in-depth informative explanation of how to properly, and SAFELY, set up a trailer and tow vehicle. I hope this video saves someone from a ruined vacation or worse! Truckers are regulated til there's nothing left, while the general public and RV dealers can hook anything to anything with zero accountability.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thanks for watching, and thanks for the comment!

[@michaeldoherty2289]

Tell us what you really think! I think the answer to this question is really....It depends on what you are towing and what you are towing it with.

[@Rick-tt6yq]

Now THAT was terrific video with actual data and evidence!!!!! (I am a Lean Six Sigma dude so I love solid evidence!) I am grateful for the information as I have a smaller truck (2019 Tacoma) with which I will pull a travel trailer (4400# dry). Yes, I know that a bigger truck tows more but frankly I also want a daily driver when I'm not towing. I currently have a WDH and was wondering why all current interest in Air Bags (fad??)....this video clarified it fully...Very well done and explained....No further questions from me. I will make sure my load is properly balanced and my WDH is set well. YOU GUYS ARE JUST PLAIN AWESOME!!!!!!

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thanks for watching!

[@tractorboy31]

Ive heard with bags getting frames bent cause they mount in a 6 inch space vs the springs mounting say 3ft away from each mount on the frame. Also if you look at big rigs they have bags in one place but the axle mounts to an arm for the bags and still has its other end 2 ft away

[@104cannonball]

Thank you for taking time to answer.

[@mikebushert594]

Thank you! This video has saved me $900 for an air bag installation. I am purchasing my second RV and putting the best WD Equal-i-zer hitch available for our truck and RV. I had considered both actually to compensate rear axle stress and sag. My suspicions are confirmed, a properly installed WD Hitch (i.e. your video on installation and importance of measurement) will be sufficient.

[@FastwayTrailer]

+Mike Bushert, Glad it was helpful and informative. Thanks for the comment, and good luck with the new RV!

[@corndogg78]

I'd be interested in seeing the numbers with the trailer loaded and not just to get a tongue weight. For a properly loaded trailer to have a 1k lbs tongue you should have an additional 8500-9k lbs of cargo and trailer weight.

[@MilitaryVet]

Awesome video! Done right with the animated pictures to sum things up and show exact numbers.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Tunz2cruzby]

Great video! Your demonstration was exactly what most people want to see to be able to understand weight distribution and that air bags aren't the easy solution!

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thanks Bernard Woods! It is our hope that having access to good towing information helps people make informed decisions to keep themselves, their families, and their equipment safe. Thanks for watching!

[@brianbelliveau5551]

Always nice to see more on the weight loss and gain and the hitch set up thanks for sharing

[@FastwayTrailer]

No problem 👍

[@QuantumRift]

I have both as well. Recently purchased a 29' trailer (4600 lbs empty) to tow behind our beautiful 2004 GMC Envoy XUV XLT (89,000 miles on odometer, bought in new) which is rated to pull 6400 lbs. It has airbag suspension (I replaced the airbags two years ago), and installed an Equal-I-zer WD and anti sway hitch. The Envoy does not sag at all and rides so well I can't even tell I'm pulling a trailer. Nice.

[@jlbush8249]

So airbags for payload and WDH for towing. I would have liked to see a test of both together.

[@FastwayTrailer]

We're in the process of making a video on that right now! Subscribe to see it when it's ready!

[@jlbush8249]

FastwayTrailer Excellent

[@charlieodom9107]

NOICE!!!! I am waiting on THAT video. I have always towed with WD, but now that I have bags, I wonder how I would need to setup my truck to use both and keep the truck level as it is empty.

[@vincentorona163]

Jl Bush yes both together

[@michaeljewell3089]

I have both and would also like to see results of both together!

[@RaceMentally]

Excellent video. As someone who owns and operates a trailer repair facility and races cars you did a very good video that is very precise! Great job!!!

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thanks for watching!

[@bradenwinder5277]

This is exactly what I was looking for. Thank you! Great video!

[@FastwayTrailer]

Glad it was helpful!

[@MJ-sg8ov]

This is absolutely fascinating and helpful. Thank you.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Norm7264]

love the scientific approach, very helpful, thanks

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thanks for watching!

[@davidbarbour9929]

Wish I could give this vid two thumbs up, awesome job guys, simple and to the point. The wife and I are in the process of putting a 7790 lb travel trailer with 1000 tongue weight behind our Ram 1500 with a hemi, the weight is right on the max but this clears things up nicely.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thanks David! Glad you found it so useful. As always, make sure your equipment is rated to cover all of the weights you will be towing. Good luck! Let us know how it goes with the new rig.

[@sopark434]

Learned a lot. Thanks for the great video.

[@quadqopter4770]

EXCELLENT video guys! Thnx for taking time to diagram & explain...curious what the distribution hitch WITH air bags would have done with the weight?

[@desparky]

The best explanation I've seen. I've done the same measurements when working for a car manufacturer here in Australia years ago. The measurements don't lie, but you can argue till you're blue in the face with people who think that just levelling out the tow vehicle is what it's all about. Great work guys.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thank you and thanks for watching!

[@danelen]

This is an awesome and very helpful breakdown. Really great job guys!

[@FastwayTrailer]

Glad it was helpful!

[@waynepowell567]

Simply EXCELLENT. Thank you for sharing this. Very informative.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thanks for watching!

[@michaelmiddleton5996]

Outstanding explanation and perfect timing for me. I have been wondering about the differences between the two and whether I should consider using both together. Your video, even though it's a few years old, along with your responses to questions from other viewers provided me all of the answers to my questions. Thank you so much for doing this video!!!

[@FastwayTrailer]

Glad we could help! We're filming a new video this week to help recap and go over some auto-leveling setups as well!

[@theponderosa3489]

Excellent video guys. I have a Ford F-350 equipped with air bags and I tow a 10000 pound bumper pull trailer. I’ve been having a problem with the sway bar system not doing its job as I am using a combination of both air bags and the equalizer hitch. Based on what I watched in your video I’m going to try just the equalizer and not the bags to see what happens. I’ve got a truck scale not far from my place so I can get some axle weights as well. Thanks, keep it up.

[@jmcintyre1202]

Great job. You really clearly demonstrated the differences. Impressive.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thank you!

[@island7458]

Superior content fellas. Thank you so much for the additional effort of adding the graphics with the weights! It was so easy for me to pause while multitasking compared to others who auction off the numbers... AND NOW A TWO FIFTY!!!! Also I was starting to get a little worried about Jason since he wasn't speaking, he's good ;)

[@FastwayTrailer]

Haha! Thanks for watching!!

[@gordonvanlieshout8134]

I tow 4000lbs, with a Rav4 V6 w/tow package, air bags and weight distribution hitch. Proper tires. No handling problems in storms, high winds and passing semi trucks, in 6000 miles.

[@frankalbanese9323]

I was wondering if you have ever done that same type of analysis using a WD hitch and airbags at the same time. I would be very interested in seeing the results from that setup. Thanks. Great video by the way.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thanks for your response! We don't normally recommend using both air bags and a weight distribution hitch together. The air bags can counteract the weight transfer that the WDH is giving. Using air bags to raise up the back end of the tow vehicle will decrease the amount of tension placed on the hitch, which determines how much weight distribution and sway control you will get. So, raising the rear of the tow vehicle to eliminate squat will reduce sway control.

[@mikehunter6996]

Excellent clear and concise video explaining the differences.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thanks, Mike!

[@anagraman]

This has got to be the best comparison video I've found. I was looking to get airbags installed for my camper, but after this video, I don't think I'll waste my money if my weight distribution is going to do a better job at keeping my weight shifted.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Glad this video helped!!

[@azizaviation]

excellent video and well explained.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Glad you liked it!

[@Ranger42]

This is an excellent video and addresses the issues I’m having with my set up. I have a short-bed Ford F-350 and I carry a Honda Pioneer 500 UTV (1100 Lbs), which drops the bed 2 1/2”. When I hitch my 25’ trailer, which has approximately 900 Lbs tongue weight, the truck bed drops an additional 1 inch or more, making it very difficult to engage the weight distribution arms (Reese Stedi-Flex), even when raising the trailer tongue jack to the max height. The result was that the front suspension dipped below the stock height causing a very scary and unstable to tow driving experience. Today, I will be installing a set of Firestone airbags and I hope to bring the UTV-loaded truck bed back to near stock height; hopefully, this will allow me to engage the weight distribution to the proper setting where the front suspension of the truck will dip to near unladen height leading to a more stable and safer towing.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Awesome, thanks for sharing!

[@joemeyer2726]

With 1,100 and 900 plus other cargo people, are you exceeding GVWR?

[@joemeyer2726]

Airbags not smart, take WDH to dealer for install, then CAT scale, you don’t know proper install because rear sag not relevant, front axel rise is, once WDH on should bring rise down 50%, airbags make worse because increases drive axel weight

[@danhampton8050]

Good demonstration. Help to clarify the weight distribution between the two methods of air bags and weight distribution kit. Timely info for me as I am in the process of purchasing a travel trailer. Thank you guys.

[@SteveBryant2]

Excellent video! This information reinforces and fine tunes some important points for me and I've used a WD hitch for about 30 years now on multiple trailers.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thanks Steve Bryant! Glad it was helpful.

[@georgematos1086]

Great video for newbies like me. Thanks

[@FastwayTrailer]

Glad it was helpful!

[@texasRoofDoctor]

That is great information. Saves me the embarrassment of asking the old dudes at the campground how it all works.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Love this response! Haha!

[@ianmoone2359]

Excellent presentation. Very informative indeed.

[@carboncamil]

Finally I found the right and clear explanation. Thanks for the effort

[@FastwayTrailer]

You are welcome! Thanks for watching.

[@hg2.]

Thank you. Very well done - professional.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thank you!

[@LaneHadway127]

I use both on my Toyota Tundra towing a 7000 pound trailer. Works great!

[@fizzzle]

Well done comparing the two! Very thorough and helpful.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thanks +Haviz, glad you found it useful.

[@liveintransit3783]

I know this is an old video, but thanks it was very clear and did an excellent job of explaining the systems.

[@FastwayTrailer]

You're welcome!

[@nicmac3347]

Great video I’m sure it took a lot of time to put this together 👍

[@FastwayTrailer]

Thanks for watching!

[@vlad7733]

Makes sense.. thank you 😊

[@Blue72Bronco]

Well done video, very helpful to understand the advantage of a weight distribution hitch

[@FastwayTrailer]

Glad it was helpful!

[@terryschantz4523]

Excellent video, Thanks guys.. I now understand my airbags on My 2015 TRD offroad are not even needed now when towing my trailer, (actually they are the wrong approach) I will only use the Weight Distribution hitch, this style hitch makes a HUGE difference when towing. From Slightly scary to NICE Controlled ride. I do use the Airbags when hauling loads of wood stone etc. in the Bed to level it out.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Glad it was helpful!!

[@KTravelet1]

this is an excellent video! I was hoping you could do another with both air and WD? Show the weights over multiple PSI values (5-20-35-50 etc)

[@FastwayTrailer]

Great suggestion!

[@MickPsyphon]

I'm surprised that some people still think of it as an either, or question. Especially when the two options were developed to solve two different problems; and neither was intended to increase payload capacity. Weight distribution hitches were designed to help redistribute some of the weight between the tow vehicle and the trailer, in a way that improves overall safety and handling when towing. While they may help to some degree with sag, that's not the intended purpose. Air suspension systems were designed to provide a solution for sag, as well as improve ride comfort. Using it to redistribute weight isn't at all appropriate; and as the demonstration shows, can even be detrimental. It just makes sense to consider using both, because together they solve multiple problems simultaneously, without hindering performance, or safety.

[@lew-e]

I was just thinking this. Would have been nice to have seen the WDH set up and then use the airbags to get back to the optimal ride height. What would that have done to the weight distribution according to the scales. Oh well!

[@Ka_Gg]

Great video! Thanks for this. I was debating on what I needed to do to my truck and now I don't have to debate.

[@FastwayTrailer]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Ka_Gg]

@@FastwayTrailer It absolutely was! I'm debating on uprgrading to a 3/4 ton, but I'd only need it for about 3 trips a year and this Weight distribution hitch would do quite a bit. Would you recommend those spring style bump stops or anything else that is smaller? Curious if you tested those. Another thing is that ppl say to add a leaf, wouldn't that still take weight off the front wheels? It seems like a weight distribution hitch is the absolute number 1 thing that should be done.

[@geoffmooregm]

@@Ka_Gg No amount of spring or air bag at the back will change the amount of weight that is unloaded from the front axle when you put a conventional trailer on the back of the truck. You must always use a weight distribution hitch to force load back on the front axle. Then once that is taken care of you can use an extra spring, air shock or air bag to lift the rear back to a normal ride height. Provided of course the squat in the rear was not caused by overloading the rear axle.