Setting up a Weight Distribution Sway Control Hitch with Airbags

[@gordonmedley]

this is absolutely the most spot-on correct video on weight distribution hitches I've seen. Thank you. Please never delete this video from KZbin.

[@DinkGear]

Glad it was helpful!

[@cliftontorrence839]

You taught me: regardless of OA weight, the principles are the same. Balance is important. Bags don't carry the wgt, they manage the 'ride', Take time with the process to take care of the family. Thank you too much. Great Video !

[@davidr9870]

Very nicely explained and good procedure with only 1 comment. With my setup, I do not let the air out of the bags to hook up the W/D bars. The bags actually help lift the rear of the vehicle, which is why you leave the trailer coupler latched, and use your trailer jack to lift both the front of the trailer and the rear of your truck. Air in the bags will assist this step and put less load on your trailers jack.

[@paulgayda1563]

Have you done the procedure your way and has it worked? I am looking at same scenario.

[@LuisPerez-vy6bz]

Thanks for the taking the time to explain how to properly do a set up / connection to a WDH including having a truck with airbags on it. We just got ourselves a 24’ trailer and I’m also facing that exact situation, so thanks for breaking it down and showing some good pointers to the step by step process. I’ll have to try it out soon just to get a feel for the exact PSI needed in my bags for future road trips. Much appreciate Sir!

[@ShawnPatterson402]

this is one of the best overviews of weight distribution period. Follow your instructions and you are towing great..safe travels.

[@fisherbruce13]

Just wanted to let you know, I have watched quite a few videos on this particular hitch and this is by far the best tutorial video. Thank you.

[@wattsup-sd4pn]

don't under stand why you put air in bags & checked the height before the bars were connected the bars are what put pressure back on the front for steering to be correct ,also the top of the ball should be 1" higher than the receiver on the trailer

[@yadacashfirsttimeherewitha8435]

I didn't like your tone it reminded me of a mono tone teacher🤣 However, I realized through my mature self. That people who talk like you usually have something to say and people that are quick thinkers are hard to listen. I had to listen im hauling now and I need that professor calm down feel. Great information I watched 8x and saved your video. VERY INFORMATIVE YOUR ARE THE MAN!!! THANKS I LEARNED ALOT✊🏾✊🏾✊🏾✊🏾✊🏾

[@allknowing69]

Absolutely excellent video. Worked perfect for me with airlift 5000 airbags and a curt wdh on a 1500 silverado with a leveling kit.

[@DinkGear]

Excellent Cody... Thank you. Glad to hear!

[@jamorg2306]

Great video! Sold my F250 last summer and bought a new F150. Already had equalizer hitch and added air bags to help squat. Wasn't sure how to set it up. I am now. Thanks for taking the time to do this, very much appreciated. Cheers..... now to go outside and try it out!!

[@jetboy770371]

Hi , I just got myself a F-150 , what type of air bags did you install ? What do you recommend ? Which don't you recommend ?

[@jamorg2306]

@@jetboy770371 I installed the Firestone Ride-Rite: 2582 with the Firestone Air Command: 2610. So far I have been happy with the performance. Once I have the setup done as per above I have to add about 35psi to level the truck. Works great! My trailer max weight is 8500lbs so it does not even come close to the 11,500 towing capacity of the truck. Cheers

[@c.r.angeconeb6009]

Great information, clear straight forward, must be a teacher… recalibrated with new airbags Happy Camping !

[@brucedeleskey8540]

This guy is an ace with a lot of pachents

[@byronhowe6753]

Just hooked up my trailer and I was way off , Now that I see your video and I also got air bags wow I why am I off and It 's the loaded weight , Plus I wish the rv dealer would add weight when In installing the weight distribution hitch , need to get my front back down 1 inch and Now I know how thank you ,, Great video

[@earlyblackmz]

The most impressive part of this video is the solid steel orange bucket!

[@dewrus2153]

I know....I thought it was a Homer bucket from Home Depot at first!

[@ppgrillo]

@@dewrus2153 jejejejeje

[@DinkGear]

- Andersen Hitches Trailer Jack Block with Magnets - amzn.to/32QcOAo

[@SarasotaTim]

Dang dude it only took me 20 videos to find the one that is 100% correct. Most all the other videos are 60-70% correct. Love the zero line idea so simple why get exact numbers for that part. Just work + & - from zeroing out. Love that! Air bag explanation was spot on! I bought a harbor freight 10k WDH for $250. My tow vehicle is a 2021 4Runner and my camper is a 16 foot wolf pup that weighs 4000 pounds and has a tongue weight of 500 pounds. I’m gonna be golden after following your tutorial. Thanks very much. Happy New Year! 😎

[@georgewilliamssr5230]

I have a 2014 Tacoma 4x4. I tow a 19 toy hauler. I'm set up with a weight distribution hitch, sway bar, and load leveling air bags. Works great.

[@59plexi]

best demonstration/tutorial on youtube PERIOD!!!!!! i have a 2015 f150 that looks identical to your f250!!

[@lisakuehn6436]

Excellent step by step explanation. Best I’ve seen for WDH and air bags. Thanks

[@charlesyoungblood7561]

Great Job. Like other comments this is the best explanation I have ever seen. Just one thing I never saw where you checked the trailer to make sure it was level when finishes.

[@DinkGear]

Thank you... Not necessary.. according to this WD specifications it just needs to start off level. You should end up with a very slight downward at the hitch from the hitch weight. As you saw I still had 1 inch squat on the rear of the truck

[@jasonkubitz9410]

Great video man. I have almost the same truck (lariat) and basically the same set up. It looks like I was setting up my rig backwards. Weight distribution then the bags to level out. I get a lot of bounce. I will try your method. Some people might be against air bags plus a weight distribution hitch but sometimes you need the bags to get a more stable ride. Especially if you add any weight in the bed. I keep all my weights under the rated payload (including occupants) but I got a lot of porpoising action with weight distribution only. The bags helped out a lot. Now I need to dial it in using your method. Thanks

[@JavierPadron]

Your trailer frame and hitch point is crazy high that's wild you got it filped with a f250 truck. Great job showing how to get it done.

[@DinkGear]

Thanks. Yes, Outdoors RV's have a very high hitch height.

[@mtemp208]

Wow, that was fan-flippin-tastic... thank you! Subscribed!

[@michaelblackstock5015]

Excellent content and very clear, easy to understand instructions! Well done, sir..and thank you!

[@jamesk411250]

Hands down best explanation video on youtube! Thanks!

[@c.juneau410]

2018 F-150 FX4. Max Tow. Just added Air Bags and I’m pulling a 38ft Puma 9,000 pounds! No Problem!! My Sway Bars also help a bunch. This Big EcoBoost pulls it fine.

[@rcdixon76]

I really thought airbags helped with sway and I was wrong. I have a Blue Ox Sway Pro, looks like I need to tweak my setup a bit more to get rid of the light swaying. Thank you!

[@kelseyjowest9974]

Great video thank you so much! I am new to towing. But I’m slowly learning as I go!

[@js-ih6xj]

great video I just recently purchased some air bags from rough country waiting for them to come I do have a weight distribution hitch very similar to yours and was worried how these two were going to coexist but after watching your video I am less worried I just hope I'm able to get both systems happy before the 2 plan trips that are pretty lengthy ones coming up

[@jager9825]

Great video!! I've been having a hell of a time getting my trailer so I don't feel like I'm going to die driving down the road! I'm going to readjust my setup after watching this.

[@danpeoples1000]

Same story. I've live with a poorly adjusted hitch with to much sag for 3 seasons now. This is the 1st video which demystifies the set yp process. Other videos try but fail to explain the process of diagnosis of a improperly setup WDH

[@aaronsitton5605]

Great video! Great explanation of using both air bags and load leveling hitch

[@rmccain99]

I went from a Ram 1500 too a Chevy 2500 when I bought a larger camper. I went from 4600 to 6240 lbs. I also went from one battery and one propane to two batteries and two propanes. The 2500 seems to bonce more and while sag is less, I think it could be less.

[@sapperranger04]

Thank you for this video. I just picked up a new 2500 ram with firestone ride-rite. I couldnt find a consistent answer on how to use both properly while towing. Your video put everything into perspective. Much appreciated.

[@jam471975]

Great video, just one suggestion though is to use the term "parallel to ground" instead of "level" on the trailer. I know you explained how you "leveled" it but someone might actually try to level their trailer instead of making it parallel to the ground LOL.

[@HarlyGuy13]

Jeff Martinson just reading your statement made it more clear to me.

[@CommonCentsOutdoorsman]

You'll have no troubles with this rig nice job! Air bags alone can provide some distribution and sway benefits but certainly not like a proper weight distribution set up does. The important thing to remember is not to over inflate airbags which can reduce the benefits of the weight distribution/anti sway system when both are used.

[@tsimrak]

Actually airbags work against weight distribution hitches. Rather than transfer weight back to the front, air bags transfer more weight to the rear axle and to the axle of the trailer. There is a great video on KZbin that demonstrates this.

[@tsimrak]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/jnO9pmZvpbZrfck This is a great video to watch. explains exactly why airbags are counter productive to weight distribution.

[@dalp6657]

I did all this and I do have a F150, all was fine until I put all together at the scale. The F150 is not the right truck for my 28 cougar. Truck matter and I am going to a 3/4 or 1 ton truck. Check your door sticker and follow the weight for each axle. Very nice video.

[@DinkGear]

Thank you. Yes, many out there are towing with vehicles that are not rated for their current setup. You will enjoy the tow experience with a larger truck. 😀

[@RichardCraniumn]

Thank you kindly for this informational video.

[@chrisraney7070]

Excellent video! Very informative 👏

[@lloydcoheniii9367]

Dang, great video. Very detailed and informative.

[@widdeler1]

What was the parallel measurement when you were finished. All other videos say 5psi in air bags for best weight Distribution results. Good video. I was told to setup Hitch ball 1 1/2" higher than the coupler when setting up the weight Distribution Hitch.

[@DinkGear]

Yes.. this would help with keeping the trailer parallel to ground and truck squat when finished. So its not a saggy mess in the middle.

[@csmith0244]

Good video. I only ask because I put bags on my truck and my wdh is set up wrong and I want to do it the correct way. Thank you

[@wudchk]

Hey an ORV! Those are rare over here in Texas. I have a 2021 20BD

[@ChrisGapske]

That is one STONG bucket!!

[@DinkGear]

Yes... they are awesome! - Andersen Hitches Trailer Jack Block with Magnets - amzn.to/32QcOAo

[@northlander4370]

husky Centerline WD hitches require the ball to be 1 inch above the hitch of the trailer !

[@matthansen5337]

1" squat seems to be ideal for you. Is it smart to add more pressure to the air bags to eliminate all of the squat? If you were to add more air, would that throw off your calculations and measurements? Would the trailer lose its level condition? What is the ultimate goal for safest and best driving and trailering? (Is 1" squat great; go with it, or is 0 squat what I should aim for?) Thank you!

[@DinkGear]

I prefer a slight bit of squat... also provides more comfortable ride. Too much air will start to negate your WD setup. Always recheck your measurements after original complete setup to make sure you are within manufactures recommended specs.

[@matthansen5337]

@DinkGear Thank you. Very helpful post/video; clear and easy to understand. I appreciate your efforts to help a lot of people!

[@JohnDeereAdventure]

Great video... Thank you for sharing.. 😎

[@dl1758]

I had thought you’d hook up at 25psi, hook up and set bars, then let a few psi out to plant front end weight. As soon as you set WD bars then added psi after to bags, you’ve defeated the purpose and effect of the WD bars, by raising rear end and thereby reducing tension on bars.

[@DinkGear]

Defeated the purpose? it's all in the measurements. Adding 25 psi to it before or after... its the same WD after you have set the system up with 25 psi and verified measured on the front end at +X back to zero. Adding psi before only makes it harder to put on the WD bars or near impossible. Opposite goes for when removing WD bars... 25 psi gets let out of the system before taking bars off... otherwise they are difficult to take off due to WD pressure.

[@Livefreewhileucan]

Its hard to find videos on whether or not to deflate the air bags prior to hooking up weight distribution as well as deflate prior to unhooking distribution at your camp site. I watched one video they had full air in and then hooked up hitch weight distribution bars. I didnt think that was right

[@DinkGear]

I deflate prior to hooking up or unhooking. It makes it a lot harder to unhook or hook up when inflated.

[@Livefreewhileucan]

@@DinkGear i agree. Thanks.

[@greggkunkle8539]

Great explanation, thanks

[@bofa83]

so do I raise or lower the air bags to get the hitch level with the trailer, or unbolt the thing and adjust it that way?

[@whosnext2005]

I've been trying to figure out the point of having airbags and how you would set them up for a long time with the weight distributing hitch. I'm not getting airbags but I want to get sumo springs and I want a haul an ATV in the back of the truck when hauling the camper. I was under the impression that the weight distributing hitch would bring the rear end of the truck back to ride height when the front was at normal ride height. Now that I understand the back of the truck does not have to be at ride height as long as the front of the truck is at normal ride height, I can see why airbags or sumo springs would be helpful. The sumo springs would be the same principle as the airbags, you just don't have to air them up correct?

[@DinkGear]

Purpose of the WD hitch is to transfer load back to the front axle. ie distribute more evenly across all axles of the vehicle and trailer. Airbags do not provide additional payload or load transfer, they make your ride more comfortable. Importantly when you get your WD setup, follow the manufacturers recommended setup and measure stock heights prior to loading and remeasure after loading trailer. Manufacturer of the WD should detail where your target goal should be (back to 0)

[@354HEMIPOWER]

Great and very explanatory video👍👍👍

[@Vagabond4lyfe]

If anyone can explain how the ball adjustments work?

[@stevencaron4690]

Awesome video Thanks

[@paulgayda1563]

Around 12:30 you mention to release pressure in bags to use the rv jack to raise the hitch to connect bars. Why couldn’t you raise pressure in bags high enough to do same and then lower pressure back to your desired height?

[@DinkGear]

It is more difficult to affix the weight distribution bars with air in the bags.. The same goes for trying to remove the weight distribution bars. You need to release the pressure in the bags.

[@paulgayda1563]

@@DinkGear, I appreciate your time and knowledge. Not arguing with you whatsoever. Am just learning. The coil springs in my ram won’t hold 7-800lbs. That is why I am asking. The bags require a minimum pressure of 5psi. That only gives me 50psi of support. What if I had enough to cover the 800lbs with 17psi (ish).. can’t I still use the jack to lift the tongue to install the bars?

[@DinkGear]

Of course. It's just harder to get the bars off and on with the bags filled. Mine also is 5psi minimum, I run them now days at 25psi when towing.

[@7150285]

I never understand/grasp how airbags gives you more comfortable rides? I mean all I can think of is it levels out the rear of the vehicle when towing. AND one big disadvantage of airbag is you'll have more weight on the rear axle and less weight on the front axle.

[@CommonCentsOutdoorsman]

The air bags help stabilize the ride and reduce squat (a level ride is always better). When the rear is supported with air bags the truck will roll less (side to side movement) which helps reduce sway hence a much better and stable ride. The weight distribution does it's job by transferring weight back to the front of the truck and more sway control. This combo is excellent.

[@7150285]

@@CommonCentsOutdoorsman kzbin.info/www/bejne/jnO9pmZvpbZrfck airbag + weight distribution "not always" a good combo.

[@cndgb233]

@@7150285 thanks for posting the link to the video. This is absolutely the worst way to set up your WD system. No one should follow this process as it is wrong. Has this set up been weighed at certified scales? If not you don't know that the set up is OK. Watch the video at the link by 71502 above. Air bags add weight to the rear axle so it is important not to use them until the WD system is set up by itself. Your front height in this case should be restored with just using the WD system no airbag should be involved. It appears you have very little if no angle to the ball mount. If you can't restore to original height then you need to angle the ball even more rearwards and this will give you more torque on the bars to restore the front height to original or near original. If you still have some sag after restoring the front and want the truck 100% level then you can use the airbags.

[@7150285]

@@cndgb233 a lot of people use both. But I personally think WD should be enough to solve the issue most of the time.

[@MRHEAT20]

Thanks for the lesson 🥂

[@matknull9951]

fucking beauty vid thanks for making it setup will be a breeze now

[@arealmaintenanceandrepairl1103]

But how do u alighn the rear brackets where exactly do they fo

[@fresh2k2004]

It looks like you have the same airlift system as me with the remote. I can rarely get the remote to connect to the compressor from inside the cab. I often have to stand at the bed and squat down on my knees to get the remote to connect so I can adjust the air pressure. Did you add any sort of antenna? I'd love to be able to adjust on the fly while driving if needed. That's half the reason I installed the remote system.

[@benrodriques]

Why not add air to the truck bags to get the truck higher instead of lifting the truck with the trailer?

[@DinkGear]

Lifting with the trailer allows the head shank to raise the tension bars for installation on the L brackets.

[@Knuckledragnation]

I’m curious if this procedure is the same for trucks factory equipped with air bags such as my Ram 3500 Dually? It has a trailer leveling system where all I have to do is hit a button and the rear of the truck self levels but I believe that’s about it. Thanks

[@duridersa]

Stupid question but if you add 20 pounds of pressure and then add the weight of the trailer. I notice my gauge jumps up to forty sixty pounds. Is that fine cause then? It seems like it's adding more weight into the bags by the pressure of the trailer. Hope makes sense

[@DinkGear]

My air bags auto adjust to whatever PSI I set them at... so perhaps yes. I don't set my PSI until I have already hooked up the truck and trailer. They will auto adjust as I drive by adding psi and letting air out based on weight and suspension adjustments.

[@jimmymckeown1518]

But if u have 1 Inch of squat wouldnt the front of the trailer be down an inch. I'm not correcting you. I'm trying to figure this out is all.. so when setting up shouldn't the ball be an inch higher then the coupler

[@DinkGear]

The WD I am running now states level trailer to start. Once hooked up I get 2 inches approx inch of squat... inflate 25 psi... I run about 1 inch of squat. Make sure to follow your particular WD manufacturer for where to start the trailer and hitch ball height

[@lesterptype]

While I appreciate your thoroughness and rational approach, I disagree with your methodology. I would do the airbags last. Inflating air bags to even out discrepancies only places more weight on the axles and does not reload the trailer axles to the extent one would wish. Remember that generally payload, and more specifically GAWR, are the real issues to watch. Once I re-align my heights, I then inflate the air bags for a smoother ride. Air bags should never be relied upon for weight distribution; only a smoother ride for the occupants of the tow vehicle. Additionally, I utilize a tongue weight scale before and after to make certain I do not exceed the GAWR. I then go to a scale to get a weight of the entire rig. I do not do this every time because my trailering is always more or less the same. When I change loads or set up a new trailer I repeat this methodology.

[@bennylaz1]

I agree. Inflating the air bags actually places more weight on the rear axle and removes some from the front therefore increasing chances of trailer sway.

[@joelrogers6219]

Any chance you can write down step by step the best way to do this then? Serious inquiry! Thanks

[@jerrytalley802]

I’m trying to figure this out. I have An equalizer hitch and it works well on smooth surfaces but when I get on rough roads, bouncy bridges, etc. I feel like I need the airbags to stop the bounce if that makes sense. My theory is if I had a 3/4 ton, it wouldn’t smash it down, or affect it when bumps or rough roads. I appreciate these videos, but wondering if there’s any official setup instructions from the airbag companies, equalizer companies since I’ve watched 2 videos, and two completely opposite setups. You sound very informed so I guess I’ll do some experimenting on my own? Thanks

[@GlossyLake]

This is a great video for weight distribution! I am curious as to the location of your onboard compressor. Did you mount it under the hood or on the frame under the cab?

[@DinkGear]

The installer put it under the cab

[@rn1358]

Thanks for the video, I have the same hitch but no air bags, it works great but the ride is very harsh. Do the air bags make a big improvement on the ride?

[@DinkGear]

Yes, I run low psi (25) and it smooths out the rear ride without sacrificing ride control or negating the weight distribution. The purpose is to provide a more comfortable ride.... not to level the truck.

[@mechanicalnature2884]

what were the front measurements after connecting the WDH but BEFORE adding air to the bags?

[@ChipLohman]

My experience with an F-150 and a fifth wheel is that airbags solve SERIOUS bounce... not payload

[@DinkGear]

Yes, airbags provide a more comfortable ride. 16:40 They do not increase payload

[@MrKfcflores]

Very nice setup. Can you share some specs on the truck. In the market for an f250. Year, engine, trim, lift/level, tires. And trailer also. Length, dry weight, max weight. Thanks buddy

[@bryanthornton6787]

How much did the 27psi raise the rear of the truck without the trailer on the ball?

[@two_legit1832]

Do you have any kind of lift or leveling kit installed on your Ford in this video?

[@bdake5832]

Thank you for the video. I'm confused, did you ever say when you add the air pressure back into the bags? I heard "let pressure out, attach load leveling beams, now its perfectly set up" no mention of refilling the bags, did I miss something? Thanks again!

[@DinkGear]

After you figured out the Properpsi in the airbags. Then it will just be normal setup everytime. It is easiest to hook up to truck when bags are empty. Once hitch is attached to truck, I raise front of trailer to make it easier to install WD bars. Then afterwards lower trailer back down. Last step is adding the proper psi back to the bags Then off camping. When I reach destination first step is letting air out of bags

[@bdake5832]

@@DinkGear Got it! thank you for the response.

[@rmccain99]

The best!

[@TC-tw5zk]

Are you happy with the e2trunion style hitch? I have the round bar setup.... Great instructions..I just installed airbags and had setup wrong...front felt floaty..so I'm redoing using your video...

[@DinkGear]

Yes, the E2 worked wonderfully... I had one for my previous trailer (19ft) as well. I did upgrade my E2 to a better hitch though. My current trailer is heavy and has a heavier tongue weight than most. (1400+lbs) and my E2 was only rated for 1200lbs tongue. The bottom pieces on the hitch started to bend. I replaced it with an Equalizer E4 16,000/ 1,600 tongue rating. The Equalizer E4 is a 4 point sway control hitch compared to the E2 which only has 2 point. Makes a big difference in windy conditions. That video is here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nYqUg5VsfpZlftU

[@DinkGear]

The other hitch I upgraded too is this one... same design as E2 but adds 2 more points of sway control. This is th eheaviest hitch they make, but also have smaller ones available. amzn.to/3ay0JVf

[@TC-tw5zk]

@@DinkGear hi, just wanted to let you know that I followed your instructions. And my situation came out beautiful....night and day...with airbags added I was way off untill I saw your video....thanks again. I was looking at the e4 too...but my tounge weight is only around 650-700...my e2 round bar is rated at 1000...I may still look at it..

[@DinkGear]

@@TC-tw5zk Glad to hear! :)

[@baseballplayer422]

Do you level the hitch ball to the coupler with the bags inflated or with just the minimum psi?

[@fusionfishguy]

Great question... Following

[@DinkGear]

It depends on your specific manufacturer instructions. Per mine, it stated level to 1 inch higher on ball. Air bags inflated at the end after initial measurements to determine zeros and setup is done... then inflate airbags to just reduce squat. Recheck measurements afterwards to make sure you still fall into thresholds identified in instructions. Airbags only provide more comfortable ride and reduce squat... they do not add additional payload or transfer weight back to front tires.

[@edwardman1742]

If you already know you have 2 inches of squat with the weight distribution disengaged, and you want to reduce this squat by one inch; can’t you just pre-fill your airbags to add one extra inch of rake to your truck before you hitch back up?

[@DinkGear]

It is hard to get the WD bars on with air in the bags. Control module has a preset level just ...One Touch of a button To bring it up to PSI.

[@seana7036]

I am confused on why you let the pressure out of your bags and then attached the bars. Wouldn't you want to air up like you did, then adjust the hitch from the 1.5in squat position(bags inflated to 27psi) and not the 3in position? Once you added the 25 psi back into the bags after adjusting the hitch for no air aren't you taking distribution away by adding the air in after? Asking for my set up. I have a 36ft ultralight so I'm within weight for my truck but sway has gotten worse with added weight. Set up is the lower weight rated Equalizer hitch from yours and I have the Firestone airbags on my truck. Truck is lifted, bags were to rid of squat but sway ctrl has suffered. Thanks for the video!!

[@DinkGear]

It is much harder to put the bars on and take them off with the bags inflated as the rear of the truck is higher off the ground. If I started feeling sway again after setup, something has changed and would go through setup again. The air I am running is minimal (currently 25 psi) and that is with approx 1500# tongue load. There is PLENTY of friction on my bars as I have to use the helper tool every time and can tell it is LOADED plenty... and my front axle measurements are still spot on. Don't try to level the back of your truck... air is just to add more comfort . Try resetting up the system fully loaded and recheck your measurements. Also make sure to check your trailer that it is loaded correctly. To much weight in the rear can hurt

[@seana7036]

@@DinkGear Got it, that makes sense. I have added weight to the truck and trailer so definitely worth revisiting the measurements and set up. Thanks for the help and relpy!

[@quaddingsous]

Hi, I'm confused over why you took your truck height measurements before the airbags were filled, then filled up the bags to 27lbs, only to have to let the air back out before putting the sway bars on. Were you just checking to make sure that 27 lbs wouldn't bring the back of the truck up past 48"?

[@DinkGear]

It is harder to load the WD bars with bags inflated. Checked the height once hooked up added psi, rechecked to make sure within specs.

[@quaddingsous]

@@DinkGear Right, I understood that part, but why did you pump the shocks up in the first place? I would have thought you should put the air in before you adjust your ball height to the trailer tongue??? I'm new at this and I'm just trying to understand.

[@DinkGear]

Setup needs completed prior to adding air bag equation. Airbags just eliminate excessive sag/ squat. I wanted to know how much squat I was dealing with. Then added 25psi to eliminate all but 1in of squat. Add wd bars then Recheck all measurements afterwards to ensure still within recommended specs for WD setup.

[@quaddingsous]

@@DinkGear 👍👍 thanx

[@Brockdorf]

Why do you need the sway bars if you have air ride?

[@DinkGear]

They are two completely different systems. Airbags are to reduce squat on the rear of the truck from the weight of the trailer hitch. And to make a more comfortable ride. It at no time increases payload. When you tow a trailer using a standard rear-mounted hitch, the trailer’s tongue weight is transferred to the rear axle of your tow vehicle. This can cause the rear end of your vehicle to sag, lifting the front end. It affects steering, traction, and braking. Insufficient tongue weight can lead to trailer sway, making it difficult to control. Weight distribution systems use spring bars to address these issues. The spring bars apply leverage to both sides of your setup, distributing the load across all axles (both on the tow vehicle and the trailer). This even distribution of weight results in a smooth, level ride and allows you to tow at the maximum capacity of your hitch. It also improves steering, braking, and overall stability. By distributing weight off the rear axle of the tow vehicle and onto the front axle, weight distribution hitches enhance driving performance. When combined with sway control, these hitches correct trailer sway, ensuring a safer towing experience.

[@Brockdorf]

@@DinkGear Thank you so much. Best video I have seen. Is there a reason to let the air out before locking in the bars? Seems like you could just lift the trailer jack?

[@chadhickey9527]

This is basically for 1500 trucks. You are over kill with that trailer since you have a 2500. I do appreciate the proper technique though. I need to ask what kind of bucket is that? It’s crazy strong!

[@DinkGear]

Without the WD... can get sketchy in windy conditions. And with this much tongue weight it is deffinetly a plus to have. I have links to the buckets in the video description too. amzn.to/3ov5KlF

[@aaronleonardy3096]

I’m trying to make sense of what certain adjustments do. Like if my truck still has a little rear squat when set up… Could I raise it up a hole or two where bars get pried on? Or should I be adding more washed at the hitch point?

[@DinkGear]

A little rear squat is ideal... I don't run level as seen in the video... perhaps 1" or so squat. WD bars need to be level with trailer frame so they sit square on the L brackets. On my setup washers start with weight rating ie: tongue weight is higher than 90% of the hitch’s max tongue weight rating (e.g. TW > 1,440 lb), you may want to start with 6 spacer washers or more as the tongue weight approaches the maximum hitch rating. Some setups with lighter tongue weights may only need 4 spacer washers. Check your manual for recommendations on your specific setup. Also consider a scale to weigh your hitch weight.

[@moejr14]

Does it work the same with chains

[@DinkGear]

I would believe so...

[@karurosueth1265]

I'm just confused about applying the space washers into the hitch in case you still haven't gotten the correct height into the front tires. Can you break this down or is there any video showing? Thank you and great video.

[@DinkGear]

According to the manual (for my model), they recommend Insert the spacer rivet with the spacer washers into the back of the hitch head to pre-load the angle of the hitch head. Start with 6 spacer washers for longer wheelbase tow vehicles like pickup trucks, and 5 spacer washers with shorter wheelbase vehicles like a small SUV. Maximum (9) or minimum (5). Check your WD manual for your specific model, it should break down specifics on how to correct under or over adjustments.

[@karurosueth1265]

@@DinkGear thank you!

[@rictech1325]

I have same truck ? Except long bed .. towing Winnebago 1708 fb .. 3400 dry .

[@HarlyGuy13]

Great video and exactly what I need. I take delivery of my new TT tomorrow. So am I correct that once you’ve done all this and as long as your weights in the trailer stays the same then all you have to do is hook up the trailer, engage the weight distribution hitch, add 27 psi and you’re good?

[@DinkGear]

Your psi may be different... but yes, I hook up and go as my weights and distrobutions are pretty much always the same

[@craiglewis9718]

So what is the purpose of the air bags? You can do all leveling and weigh distribution with the hitch.

[@DinkGear]

Reduce squat and provide a more comfortable ride

[@codypfaff8253]

In the video you said to set the airbags before the WDH but then you release the psi to put the hitch on. Does that not contradict the statement? What was the point of adding psi to air bags then removing prior to setting up the hitch? Thanks

[@DinkGear]

When setting it up to determine what level psi for squat in the rear. It is harder to put on and remove WD bars when there is air in the bags. That's why I let it out.

[@duge75]

@@DinkGear Not really understanding why it would make it harder to remove or install the bars when the air bags are inflated since you are lifting the truck and the hitch anyways to make it easier to install the bars. The more the truck would squat the harder the bars would be to install, correct?

[@stevehendricks3835]

Thank you for the video, it helped me alot with my coil replacement bags on a ram 2500. Question: If you wanted an inch of squat, wouldn't you want the ball an inch higher than coupler with the trailer level? It seems to me that your trailer is now sitting an inch low in the front connected to a 1" squatted truck.

[@DinkGear]

The slight downward angle helps with the towing and keeps weight where it belongs

[@GT-sj3si]

I agree, as to personally I prefer the trailer to be as close to level as possible going down the road.

[@TD-lt4uq]

Can I use a WDH with auto leveling airbags? I have no way to turn airbags on or off or to adjust...

[@hg2.]

Is that a 5 gallon bucket you're resting the trailer on?

[@DinkGear]

LOL.. no. It is an Anderson Hitch Block. There is a link in the video description

[@timpaulus4922]

Measuring from road to trailer frame does not make it level it makes it parallel to road only level will show if it is level

[@juliankinnard]

I’m curious as to what your set up weighs in at each axle. Per what the axel weight rating is for the front and back axles on your truck.

[@DinkGear]

Looking to hit the scales shortly when I get it out again

[@joeyguzzo7347]

Appreciate the video.. Question: I don't want to have to re-setup the hitch every single time i hook up my Toyhauler. I have air bags and will definitely follow this. Can I load the trailer with what I expect to haul , 80% of the time, and expect the WDH to still work correctly? My TH is only 8200 dry, so approx 9500-10k loaded. I definitely have zero interest in doing this every single time we take it out. Thanks in advance!

[@DinkGear]

Yes... If you notice a change in your ride, I would simply just recheck your measurements for peace of mind

[@kkaalaas]

Why don’t you want to add more psi to level it more and then bring bars snug?

[@DinkGear]

Too much psi goes against WD. Just looking to add comfort to the ride and absorb a bit of harshness

[@kkaalaas]

@@DinkGear the larger systems say they will level the truck. You run it at 25 and I know people that run it at 50 to level it.

[@radborne1]

So what would happen if you have an auto leveling air bag system? Have you added more air to the bring the rear height to its original height?

[@DinkGear]

I would take the same measurements and see where your front height ends up... it might possibly be just fine. I am still running 22 - 25 psi in my current setup

[@Battchief187]

When setting up your WDH, I noticed you did it in the street. I know the surface needs to be as level as possible, but does it matter if there is a crown in the street making the trailer and truck lean some with the slope?

[@DinkGear]

Our street is barely off camber as well.. no issues

[@CDAY0219]

Looks like you corrected the additional rear sag by using your airbags and not distributing the additional weight to the front using your hitch? You may have brought your front end back to the zero point but you added 2psi of additional air to your airbags. Your bags correct sag but not weight distribution.

[@DinkGear]

Front measurements are still on the money after airbags filled. Additional weight transfered to the front would have put me past spec.. Important to always check after any changes are made.

[@CDAY0219]

@@DinkGear But you corrected that with adding 2psi to your bags. Shouldn’t you have checked your front end measurement at 25psi in your bags and not 27? If your front end was up at 25 then you should have corrected your hitch.

[@brandonkoff]

When you have your trailer level and your truck ready to back under it you actually want the top of the ball to be about an inch higher than your trailer receiver

[@DinkGear]

The top of the hitch ball should be initially placed between 0” and 1” above this height... straight from the manual

[@jacksonfamily1000]

Great video. This will help me properly set up my equalizer hitch. Since your hitch weight is so heavy, how are you doing on your payload capacity numbers given that this is a F-250. I have the same truck and my payload capacity is 2121. Subtracting the weight of the hitch plus passengers and cargo in the truck, are you over?

[@DinkGear]

We are sitting good. My payload capacity is 2950#

[@jacksonfamily1000]

@@DinkGear thanks again for the great video.

[@ChrisSmith-me4ow]

What air bags you have in your truck

[@DinkGear]

Parts used: - AIR LIFT WirelessAIR Controller Gen 3 Kit - 72000 Automatic Leveling Digital On-Board Compressor System - Firestone Ride-Rite 2600 Air Helper Springs kzbin.info/www/bejne/nouvaXyOosaGbNk

[@jimlang3634]

Great video. Just experienced my first ride with a new toyhauler and it was scary. Went with setting the dealer did and it was a mistake. With a toyhauler, do you feel it is safe to do this calibration with the atv in the back?

[@DinkGear]

I would think it would be fine... it is just payload. Just make sure you are not over what is stated

[@miguelvarela812]

Can you still make a 90 degree right turn with those bars? How long is your trailer?

[@DinkGear]

I have never had issues with hard over ... trailer is 27ft / 31 overall