Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Hitch: Ratings, Setup & Parts

The Equal-i-zer 4-Point Sway Control hitch does two jobs: its spring arms redistribute trailer tongue load between the tow vehicle and trailer axles, and friction at the head and spring-arm brackets helps resist trailer sway. If you are replacing a complete hitch or repairing an existing one, begin with the model number on the spring-arm sticker. The 4,000-, 6,000-, 10,000-, 12,000-, 14,000- and 16,000-lb versions have different load ratings and some model-specific hardware.

Compare hitch models and ratings

These are the manufacturer's maximum ratings, not a recommended tongue weight for every trailer. Choose a model using your actual loaded tongue weight, including anything carried on or behind the tow vehicle's rear axle that affects the hitch. Confirm your tow vehicle and receiver are rated for weight distribution; the lowest-rated part of the combination determines what you may tow.

The standard model chart above lists maximum trailer-frame heights. Oversize link plates are available for certain configurations, but buying an 8-inch bracket does not automatically make every hitch suitable for an 8-inch frame. The 4K hitch has its own smaller bracket hardware; the 16K hitch also has distinct parts.

Matching hitch photographs

90-00-0400

400 lb max tongue weight. Choose the matching spring-bar rating.

View 90-00-0400 hitch

90-00-1000

1,000 lb max tongue weight. Choose the matching spring-bar rating.

View 90-00-1000 hitch

90-00-1400

1,400 lb max tongue weight. Choose the matching spring-bar rating.

View 90-00-1400 hitch

90-00-1600

1,600 lb max tongue weight. Choose the matching spring-bar rating.

View 90-00-1600 hitch

Identify the replacement components

Spring bars: The pair carries tongue load from the head to the trailer-frame brackets. Replace damaged or lost arms with the exact rating specified for the head. The 90-01-1099 1,000-lb spring-bar pair, 90-01-1299 1,200-lb pair and 90-01-1699 1,600-lb pair are separate parts; never mix ratings or assume a different bar will fit your hitch head.

L-brackets and link plates: The spring bars rest on the L-brackets attached to both sides of the trailer A-frame. The 90-02-5150 L-bracket is part of the 6K–14K hardware family. The 90-02-5378 outside link plate is an 8-inch-frame configuration part within that family and must be paired with the correct matching hardware. It is not the standard 4K bracket.

Shank and hitch ball: Receiver opening, shank dimensions, rise/drop and ball size all need to suit the towing setup. For example, 90-02-4100 is listed for a 2-inch receiver, while 90-02-4125 is listed for a 2½-inch receiver. Measure carefully before substituting an adjustable shank. The manufacturer specifies a pre-installed 2-5/16-inch ball on the standard 6K–16K models, but not on the 4K model; check the exact package when purchasing.

Set up the brackets correctly

The manufacturer calls for the sway bracket assemblies to sit 27–32 inches behind the centre of the trailer coupler, with 32 inches preferred when the A-frame permits. Place both brackets symmetrically and check for propane lines, tanks, frame attachments and other obstructions before tightening any hardware.

Couple the trailer with its actual travel load, engage the spring bars, and measure the tow vehicle's front axle ride height as described in the appropriate owner's manual. Hitch-head tilt and L-bracket height affect the amount of weight transferred. Keep the trailer and tow vehicle within all their published weight ratings.

Lubrication and everyday use

Equal-i-zer instructs owners to lubricate the head's spring-arm socket friction surfaces and maintain the hitch ball as directed. Do not grease the L-brackets or spring arms where they rest on the brackets; those are working sway-control friction points. The hitch's sway control works while the weight-distribution arms are engaged, without a separate friction-style sway bar.

Before every trip, inspect the spring-arm sockets, bracket fasteners, retaining pins, receiver connection and trailer coupler. Replace damaged components with parts approved for the exact hitch model. The Equal-i-zer owner's manual covers the full adjustment, hitching and maintenance procedure.