When weight distribution may not be necessary: A weight-distribution hitch may not be necessary if your tow vehicle and receiver are rated for the loaded trailer and tongue weight without it, and the manufacturers do not require it. Rear air suspension can reduce squat, but a level truck alone does not confirm those requirements are met.
Not sure if you need a WD Hitch?
- Use the tow vehicle, receiver hitch and trailer manufacturers’ requirements to decide whether weight distribution is needed. Check the owner’s manual, receiver labels, actual loaded trailer and tongue weights, and all vehicle ratings. A level truck or a small amount of squat does not prove that a WD hitch is unnecessary. There is no universal two-inch or three-inch squat rule.
- If you have sway issues, see our guide on fixing trailer sway problems.
- If your tow vehicle is attached to a trailer and is squatting, then you have a few options for a the solution to level the load.
Options for Leveling Your Load
Install a Weight-Distribution Hitch When Required: A correctly sized and adjusted WD hitch redistributes part of the tongue load to the tow vehicle’s front axle and trailer axles. Use it when required by the vehicle or hitch manufacturer and only where the vehicle, receiver and trailer permit it. Follow the exact system’s setup and front-axle restoration instructions. A WD hitch does not increase the vehicle’s towing capacity, payload, GVWR, GCWR or axle ratings. For compatible WD systems, a Shocker Air Equalizer adds air cushioning; it does not replace required weight distribution.
Helper Springs: Properly selected helper springs can support the existing suspension and reduce sag within the vehicle’s original ratings. They do not increase towing capacity, payload, GVWR, GCWR or GAWR, and they do not replace a required WD hitch. Ride firmness and adjustability depend on the kit.
Rear Air Suspension: A compatible rear air spring kit can help support and level the load and adjust ride comfort within the vehicle’s existing ratings. Air springs do not increase towing capacity, payload, GVWR, GCWR or GAWR. They do not perform the same function as a WD hitch and cannot replace one that the manufacturer requires. Follow both the air spring and WD manufacturers’ setup instructions when using them together.
Install Load Leveling Shocks on Tow Vehicle: Aftermarket air and hydraulic shocks are available. Fairly easy to install. Some options have air bladders and coils integrated. Adjustment can be tricky and time consuming. They do help with ride and load control, but are not the best at leveling the load as much as absorbing it. Shocks control how fast weight is transferred. They are often very expensive and not commonly used for load-leveling.
The right solution depends on the vehicle, trailer, actual loaded weights and manufacturer requirements. Correct an overloaded or incompatible setup before towing; making it look level does not make it safe or increase its ratings.
Keep required weight distribution: Rear air springs or load-leveling springs are not permission to remove a required WD hitch. A standard Shocker air receiver hitch may be appropriate only when weight distribution is not required and every component is rated for the actual load. Where WD is required, use an approved compatible setup such as the applicable Air Equalizer system.
Rear Air Suspension Kit Benefits
Here are 10 great reasons to consider getting air suspension for a pickup truck, van or sport utility vehicle:
- Improved Ride Quality
Air ride suspension systems by Air Lift offer a smoother and more comfortable ride compared to traditional leaf or coil spring suspensions. They can absorb bumps and uneven terrain more effectively, especially when driving on rough roads. - Load-Leveling Capabilities
If you are hauling or towing, and the rear of your vehicle is swatting, sagging or not level, an air ride suspension allows you to adjust the height of the vehicle depending on the load you’re carrying. This helps keep the truck level, preventing sagging when hauling heavy loads and give you way better handling and load control. - Better Towing Performance
With adjustable air suspension, you can raise or lower the rear end of your truck, suv or van to achieve a more balanced, level and ultimately more stable trailer towing experience. Having a level tow rig and trailer also reduces sway, making towing safer and easier. - Improved Vehicle Handling
By supporting the load within the vehicle’s existing ratings, air suspension can improve the handling and stability of your tow vehicle, especially when hauling heavy loads or when towing a trailer. Giving you a safer and more controlled driving and towing experience. - Pays for Itself by Saving Money on Damage & Fuel
With improved load leveling, customers report better handling which helps a little with fuel mileage, and the shock absorbing properties reduce wear and tear saving you additional money in the long run. - Dial in a Customized Ride for Your Preference
Air suspension systems allow you to adjust and fine-tune the firmness or softness of the ride, by adding or reducing you air pressure, giving you more control over the feel of the suspension. Whether you want a firmer ride for towing all over the place or a softer ride for everyday driving around town, an air suspension kit can be fine tuned for all situations. - Get You Adjustable Ride Height
With a push of a button, an air suspension lets you to adjust the ride height for different trailer towing and driving situations. You can raise or lower it to level your load when hauling. Plus you can lower it for easy access or raise it for off-road driving, improving clearance over obstacles. - Reduced Wear & Tear on Your Vehicle
With an air suspension kit, you get better support for the truck’s weight and load, which gives a better customized ride and also is easier on you vehicle reducing the forces & stress your vehicle along with other components like springs, frame, shock absorbers, struts, tires and more. - Saves Factory Suspension with Increased Durability
Unlike traditional suspension systems, air suspension uses air spring bags, which are the best cushioning device on the planet. They make it easier on you and your equipment. They are more durable and resistant to wear and tear. This can extend the life of your factory suspension system and reduce the need for frequent repairs. - Improved All-Around Performance
Since the air bag suspension system can be fine-tuned by adding or reducing air pressure, and the cushioning effect on with the air springs, you get better performance and handling all around.