Weight vs level

[ccastillo2305]

So curious question. I've read many post on weight and level rise. My question is what's more important. Getting close to if not same weight back on front axles or just close if not equal height from original stance? I ask because my current set up has me 100 pound lighter upfront but sitting the same height as unhitched. Before getting that close i was 250 lbs off but only 1/2 of an inch off regular height . i cant comprehend this. New shocks all around so i know it's not the tv.

[LHaven]

This is about tuning a weight-distributing hitch, right?

The instructions I've seen say to measure the front height with passengers, hitch up, measure again, then crank the WD adjustment to bring it back half the difference.

I suppose if an actual weight scale indicated a different distribution, I'd consider that, too.

[ccastillo2305]

This is about tuning a weight-distributing hitch, right?

The instructions I've seen say to measure the front height with passengers, hitch up, measure again, then crank the WD adjustment to bring it back half the difference.

I suppose if an actual weight scale indicated a different distribution, I'd consider that, too.

That's exactly what i am getting to. I have done what the hitch manual says and within their instructions i was gravy, But when going to the weights i was for what i think too off on weight.

[LHaven]

Your goal isn't to get the weights on the axles even. It's to get the weights on the axles safely within their individual weight rating, and not have the front axle too light, so that you can retain your steering.

[Frank G]

Knowing your TV and trailer would help. Shocks, new or old have nothing to do with load carrying or level. Your weight distributing hitch, properly installed, transfers hitch weight to the front axle of the TV and rearward to the trailer axles. In most hook-up's getting within 100 lbs. on the front axle would be acceptable, again, it is relative to your TV and trailer combination.

[JRTJH]

As previously stated, "Tuning in" the hitch must include not only "ride height" of the front axle, but also maximum weight ratings for the front axle, rear axle, receiver, hitch and trailer GVWR.

It's pretty much "your choice" which you do first, weigh the rig or adjust the "ride height" (although I'd weigh first), but both should be confirmed before "setting off with the belief that everything is A-OK" Things are not "A-OK" if your tow vehicle is sitting level, but the receiver is rated at 1000 pounds and your trailer tongue is 1300 pounds just as it's not "A-OK" if your FAWR is 3850 and you've adjusted the hitch to cause the truck to sit level, but the front axle weighs 4200 pounds when you park it on the scale. Everything, not just payload or truck GVW or rig GCWR should be within the limits.

[ccastillo2305]

Thanks all. I am all new to this and anything towards a safer ride is what I am shooting for. My set up handles well and have not had any issues and actually quite happy with this hitch. I was just more curious if there was a a golden rule i guess on which to pay more attention too, I know both are important but which to fine tune more. I sit well within all my weight limits all around. But its for future vehicles and set ups. Thanks again for all the input.