Anti sway or Equalizer hitch ??
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Topic: Anti sway or Equalizer hitch ??
Posted By: bc matell
Subject: Anti sway or Equalizer hitch ??
Date Posted: 18 Jul 2012 at 4:21pm
Hi all, I am picking up our r-pod 177 next week. Fell in love with it,we have seen a few here in Canada, British Columbia, so we found a dealer and now it's ours! My ?? is which one, Anti sway or Equalizer,are they the same? And what model. we chucked the tenting for the pod, so we need some help. We are new at this thanks for any help
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Replies:
Posted By: Seanl
Date Posted: 18 Jul 2012 at 7:12pm
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Welcome from the Eastern Coast of Canada. I hope you have a lot of fun with you Pod. There are a lot of posts on this forum about this question and I encourage to to read them but the short answer is it depends on what you are towing with. You have three options you can get an antisway bar that will stop your trailer from swaying back and forth in the wind. You can also get a weight distribution hitch which distributes the tongue weight of the trailer more evenly between the front and rear wheels of your tow vehicle so it stops the back of your tow vehicle from bouncing up and down and helps to keep you front wheels firmly on the ground. Your third option is something like the Equalizer hitch which does both. Now what do you need. If you live in an area that gets a lot of wind and your TV (Tow Vehicle) has a short wheelbase I would recommend that you get some sort of sway control. Also if you are towing at more that half of your TV's Rated towing capacity I would recommend a Weight Distribution Hitch. I am towing with a 2009 Jeep Liberty which has a fairly short wheelbase but It has a 5000 lbs towing capacity so I could have probably gotten away with just antisway bar but I got an E2 hitch which is similar to the equalizer hitch because it makes it more comfortable to drive. These are just my opinions and I am sure you will get many more Half the fun I have had with my pod is figuring out what to get for it next so have fun and stay safe.
------------- Sean, 2011 Rpod RP-173,2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition 
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Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 18 Jul 2012 at 10:14pm
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Welcome. Sean covered it well, I will only add that I have an E2 hitch, too. It is a cheaper version of the Equalizer - less sway control but the pods don't need much, they tow very well. You can get the 6000 pound version if you want (in case you move to a heavier camper in the future), the manufacturer has confirmed you can get a heavier model. There are various online tools at the Equalizer web site (not the E2 site) which will help you figure out which holes to mount the head on, and what size shank to order.
------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual 
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Posted By: Footslogger03
Date Posted: 18 Jul 2012 at 10:32pm
=========================== Our first thought was "Sway Control", since we had a few scarey episodes in high gusty winds with our 177. In the end though we decided to get the "Equalizer" that gave us both the Weight Distribution and the Sway Control. This is our first trip since having it installed and so far it has been everything we expected. Ran through some rough winds and hit some highway sections that were pretty wavy. Never felt a thing from behind. Very glad with our decision and purchase. 'Slogger ------------- Livin' the Dream ...'Slogger |
Posted By: TerryM
Date Posted: 19 Jul 2012 at 4:25am
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Then again you might not need either. It depends on what your towing with. I'm towing with a Ford F-150 and don't need anything. When I first got my Pod I towed with a Jeep Liberty 4X4 that was built up for off road use. It didn't need any help either. If it had been stock I probably would have needed an equalizer hitch. Terry ------------- RP-175 W/Lift Kit 2011 Ford F-150 4X4 Saint Augustine, FL: The first permanent European settlement in the USA: 1565 |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 19 Jul 2012 at 8:35am
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With beefier TVs you are right, you don't need either. However, I've towed with and without my WDH with my Suburban and the ride quality was still noticeably improved when the WDH was in place. So I plan on using it, even though it isn't necessary for safety, etc. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: Keith-N-Dar
Date Posted: 19 Jul 2012 at 11:42am
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I just have a plane hitch on my F-150, and have ride issues at slow speed (25-35) over bumpy roads. The pod gets the truck rocking, and while it is still controllable it is less than comfortable. Will either of these hitch options help with that? ------------- Keith-N-Dar Boris & Betty (Boston Terriers) 2011 R-Pod 177 2010 Ford F-150 |
Posted By: Seanl
Date Posted: 19 Jul 2012 at 1:07pm
A WDH should help with this. A Weight Distribution Hitch puts a set of spring bars between the TV and Trailer. The springs resist movement of the trailer on the ball so it does not bounce as much.
------------- Sean, 2011 Rpod RP-173,2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition
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Posted By: Footslogger03
Date Posted: 19 Jul 2012 at 1:14pm
============================== We are towing a 177 with a Tacoma 4 Liter 6cyl - standard trans (short bed). We had a lot of "rocking back and forth" and that seemed to precipitate the swaying/fishtailing. I can only share our personal experience, which is limited since this is our first trip with the Equalizer hitch installed (600/6,000lb model) - - but so far there has been NO rocking or swaying. Makes all the difference in the world in terms of peace of mind. Like others have said, it might not be necessary with a heavier duty tow vehicle, but we are very satisfied and happy with the WDH/Stabilizer. 'Slogger ------------- Livin' the Dream ...'Slogger |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 19 Jul 2012 at 2:14pm
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I would compare the difference in ride quality from moving from a compact car to a big comfy Caddilac. From feeling every bump to gliding on marshmallows. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: Footslogger03
Date Posted: 19 Jul 2012 at 3:39pm
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I have no experience driving a big Caddy ...but that sounds pretty close to how I'd describe it.
On our drive up to Gillette, WY a week ago we felt every bump, wave in the road surface ...and especially the expansion seams where there was a bridge. After the WDH/Stabilizer was installed we continued on to our current camping location here in Custer State Park and honestly, we just glided over the road. No "porposing" or swaying. Noticed my "death grip" on the steering wheel easing up a bit. To me, that alone was worth the investment. 'Slogger ------------- Livin' the Dream ...'Slogger |
Posted By: Keith-N-Dar
Date Posted: 19 Jul 2012 at 4:06pm
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Thanks! I love Custer. Nothing like driving in a buffalo herd! ------------- Keith-N-Dar Boris & Betty (Boston Terriers) 2011 R-Pod 177 2010 Ford F-150 |
Posted By: this_is_nascar
Date Posted: 20 Jul 2012 at 8:23am
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For those of you who have either the E2 or Equalizer, does installation require any cutting and/or drilling or is everything bolt-on?
------------- "Ray & Connie" - 2017 R-Pod RP-180 - 2007 Toyota Tacoma TRD-Off Road |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 20 Jul 2012 at 8:48am
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Bolt on, no cutting or drilling. There are two brackets that mount on the tongue, and the hitch itself requires some assembly. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: Footslogger03
Date Posted: 20 Jul 2012 at 9:50am
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...what he said !!
'Slogger ------------- Livin' the Dream ...'Slogger |
Posted By: this_is_nascar
Date Posted: 23 Jul 2012 at 7:50am
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Ok, thanks.
------------- "Ray & Connie" - 2017 R-Pod RP-180 - 2007 Toyota Tacoma TRD-Off Road |
Posted By: rpodcamper.com
Date Posted: 23 Jul 2012 at 9:50am
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I have been reading and watching thread as I'm also thinking about adding Sway / Weight to my camper. Heading out to Morgantown WV going over the hills in Maryland we had a lot of sway at higher speeds. I just started to look at the Anderson Weight Distribution Hitch as something different. They use chains vs the bars http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRoQ_yQZQwQ - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRoQ_yQZQwQ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM7mCnqmwo&feature=fvwrel - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM7mCnqmwo&feature=fvwrel Not sure when I might jump on doing something but just started to look |
Posted By: Footslogger03
Date Posted: 23 Jul 2012 at 10:13am
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We looked at Equalizer, E2, Anderson and Reese. We talked to people who have them all and did a lot of reading and scoured the user reviews. We were just about to buy the E2 hitch and then got a good price on the Equalizer (on-line) and deciced to go that route.
We had taken several trips in our 177 since buying it last October without any form of weight distribution or sway control. Not certain that weight distribution was an issue but we had SEVERAL nerve racking sway episodes due to high, gusting winds and a few times as we encountered oncoming semis. Since adding the Equalizer a little over a week ago, we have now travelled around 1000 miles and have not experienced a single sway episode. We like that ! As for the Anderson (chain type) versus the Equalizer/E2 (bar type) I think it comes down to personal preference. My guess is that they all work as designed/specified. We chose the Equalizer because we believe it is the strongest hitch, has the best warranty AND is Made In America. 'Slogger ------------- Livin' the Dream ...'Slogger |
Posted By: Seanl
Date Posted: 23 Jul 2012 at 10:24am
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I really like the look of the Anderson hitch. I looked at them too but in the end they were just to expensive for me. Also I did not know anyone running them. ------------- Sean, 2011 Rpod RP-173,2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition
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Posted By: rpodcamper.com
Date Posted: 23 Jul 2012 at 9:05pm
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The Anderson's look nice but I have not found anyone yet using them as they are about 1 year old. They do have a 45 day trail you can use. |
Posted By: Seanl
Date Posted: 23 Jul 2012 at 11:48pm
There is a lot !!! of debate on other forums about the Anderson hitch. A lot of it way over my head. Interesting to see in a few years how they hold up. ------------- Sean, 2011 Rpod RP-173,2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition
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Posted By: rickwxi
Date Posted: 30 Jul 2012 at 1:59pm
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HI, well, we have the r-pod 177 and am pulling it with a 2001 Ford Ranger XLT four wheel drive witht the 4.0C V-6 engine. I do have Air bag overloads installed and run about 35 lb of air in them. I pull the r-pod without the sway bar, just the hitch. seems to pull just fine, sometimes I don't even know I am pulling it, except when I look in the mirrors. Oregon has a lot of mountains to pull and it does a good job. We love the r-pod 177. Note: Our r-pod is 18 feet long and weighs 2450 lbs empty. Rick and Barb |
Posted By: Footslogger03
Date Posted: 30 Jul 2012 at 6:08pm
======================= Hope your experience remains positive. After several "sway" epidodes we decided to get an Equalizer hitch. Have about 600 miles under our belt so far and NO sway. We like that !! 'Slogger ------------- Livin' the Dream ...'Slogger |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 30 Jul 2012 at 9:10pm
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I towed mine for a year and a half without sway control, but as Footslogger said, it only took one bad incident to make me rethink that strategy. The popup I had before was suicide to tow without a sway bar so when I saw how well the pod pulled without it I was happy to not deal with it. I'm glad I have it now.
------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: burge16
Date Posted: 02 Aug 2012 at 11:33pm
| I'm brand new at RV'ing and towing, and just bought a 177. I'm towing it with a V6 Ford Escape, and had equalizer bars installed. My first trip down the highway my trailer was swaying side to side, so I pulled over and tightened the equalizer bars, and that made all the difference. Now it's much more stable, and I only notice a bit of movement when it's really windy (which I gather is normal). Lots to learn though, so I'm really happy this forum is available for new people like me! |
Posted By: Footslogger03
Date Posted: 02 Aug 2012 at 11:41pm
======================= When you say you tightened the Equalizer bars ...are you talking about torquing down the bolts located at the hitch head that control the side-to-side friction of the stabilizer bars ?? If so, what level of torque did you put on them. There is a spec in the installation guide. 'Slogger ------------- Livin' the Dream ...'Slogger |
Posted By: burge16
Date Posted: 03 Aug 2012 at 1:41am
| My whole setup came from the dealer, so everything was set up for me by them. The adjustment I made only related to how tight I had the chains, I had them much too loose. So it was essentially like not having anything until I tightened them up. Scarey lesson to learn, now I know. |
Posted By: Seanl
Date Posted: 03 Aug 2012 at 6:52am
Okay you have a chain type of Weight Distribution Hitch. Most of them don't have built in sway control. Equalizer is a brand name that does not use chains and has built it sway control. The picture below is of an E2 Hitch which has solid brackets on the frame of the trailer for the spring bars of the Weight Distribution hitch to sit on. (This is the same on the Equalizer) This provides 2 points of friction for sway control. The Equalizer has another two points of friction at the hitch head which dampens side to side motion.  Some chain type WDHs have a cam system for sway control that you can add. You can also add a sway bar. The down side to sway bars is they have to be removed when you are backing up the trailer. I hope that helps a little is explaining the different types of hitches. This is a Reese Cam active Sway control system.  ------------- Sean, 2011 Rpod RP-173,2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition
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Posted By: this_is_nascar
Date Posted: 03 Aug 2012 at 9:32am
I can't tell from the pic, but is that the Trunnion style or Round Bar style E2? Why did you choose the one you did, considering there's a $100 difference between styles? I want to get an E2, but not sure which style to get.
------------- "Ray & Connie" - 2017 R-Pod RP-180 - 2007 Toyota Tacoma TRD-Off Road |
Posted By: burge16
Date Posted: 03 Aug 2012 at 11:04am
| Yes, the top picture is what I have. Because I've never towed anything before I'm still trying to figure out what's normal and what isn't. I've been told I can add a sway bar to this set up if I want to, but I'm going to persist and just try to get comfortable with what I have. It's probably just my inexperience, and truthfully it's not too bad. I find it depends more on how windy it is as to how much movement I feel, and my speed too. |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 03 Aug 2012 at 12:30pm
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Did you raise the L brackets on the camper frame to increase your sway control? The potential downside to that is you can end up raising the rear of your TV too much. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: Seanl
Date Posted: 03 Aug 2012 at 12:44pm
Trunnion Style I got a good deal on it. I don't think there is any performance difference. I have posted before that the head of the trunnion style sits higher giveing you more ground clearance. ------------- Sean, 2011 Rpod RP-173,2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition
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Posted By: Footslogger03
Date Posted: 03 Aug 2012 at 2:44pm
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Here's another question related to the whole WDH/Stabilizer set-up. If you are backing into (or pulling out of) your driveway and have a sloped apron between the level driveway and the street, do you disengage your staibilizer bars ?
I did last time we travelled, and right after we got the Equal-i-zer installed, but I'm not sure that was necessary. 'Slogger ------------- Livin' the Dream ...'Slogger |
Posted By: this_is_nascar
Date Posted: 03 Aug 2012 at 3:22pm
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Thanks Sean. I do remember someone saying that, but wasn't sure who. I hadn't realized the was a $100 difference between the two for the same weight class. Maybe I should call those folks who make it and ask.
------------- "Ray & Connie" - 2017 R-Pod RP-180 - 2007 Toyota Tacoma TRD-Off Road |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 03 Aug 2012 at 4:06pm
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Footslogger, probably not necessary but if it will push your rig into a steep angle it might not be a bad idea. I've never worried about it and haven't had a problem. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: Footslogger03
Date Posted: 06 Aug 2012 at 10:42am
====================================== When we departed/returned from our trip this weekend I left the stabilizer bars in place and went slowly. No problem. Guess it looked worse than it actually was. I should also say that I moved the L brackets down one slot, which took a little tension off of them/trailer frame. 'Slogger ------------- Livin' the Dream ...'Slogger |
Posted By: Bill Ky
Date Posted: 06 Aug 2012 at 3:12pm
| I will be pulling our 175 with a 1500 Dodge Ram quad cab 4.7L with air bags rated to pull 7800 lbs, so I think WD hitch should not be necessary, But have been pondering the need for sway control. My main concern is push from semi tractors passing at higher speeds and cross winds. Any thoughts? |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 06 Aug 2012 at 4:13pm
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Cross winds are what convinced me to get a WDH. Most of the time I was fine, but one bad day wasn't fun. Even now that I've moved to my Suburban I will use my WDH - the ride quality is better. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: ToddsPod
Date Posted: 06 Aug 2012 at 5:03pm
I pull my 172 with the same vehicle and no WDH. We pulled 3000 miles from Houston TX to Salem Oregon via Yellowstone and Northern Idaho. We didn't have any issues with excessive sway or instability. If you're the very careful type, you may want to do it just for security. The only issue I do have with the vehicle is lack of power. You expect with a V8 you'd be pulling without a problem, but in a headwind or going uphill you end up in 2nd gear far too often. -------------  
'07 Dodge RAM 1500 ST Longbed QuadCab 4.7L V8 --- '10 Forest River R-Pod 172 |
Posted By: Footslogger03
Date Posted: 06 Aug 2012 at 5:45pm
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I really can't say a whole lot more about this whole topic without starting to repeat myself ...but here's my final thought on the subject (and this is coming from someone who pulled a 177 with and without one). If your tow vehicle is a little light in arse end and you are not certain of how well balanced your load is inside the Pod, then if it were me ...I'd get one.
Are they cheap ? ...NO. Ours (through e-Trailer.com) was just under $600 installed. Was it worth it ? ...in my humble opinion - - YES ! 'Slogger ------------- Livin' the Dream ...'Slogger |
Posted By: Bill Ky
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2012 at 11:12pm
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Verdict is friction sway bar, no WD. I do have a WDH but after 300 miles so far I don't think I'll be needing it.
------------- Bill & Marilyn, Tinker Belle (Yorkie), Sparkle (Mini Dachshund) & Tootsie (the turtle) '12 RP175 '07 Dodge Ram 1500 |
Posted By: this_is_nascar
Date Posted: 20 Aug 2012 at 6:49am
Like many other topics such as "to cover or not to cover", others feel stongly otherwise.
 ------------- "Ray & Connie" - 2017 R-Pod RP-180 - 2007 Toyota Tacoma TRD-Off Road |
Posted By: Footslogger03
Date Posted: 20 Aug 2012 at 10:34am
========================= When I was researching them I found that the models with the widest usage/better reputations were WDH with Stabilization. Truth be told ...after doing the measurments we probably didn't need a lot of weight distribution control either (depending on how much "stuff" we crammed into the Pod) but I look at it as a little "insurance". In installing the hitch I didn't position it for "maximum" weight distribution so that the stress on the tow vehicle or the trailer frame would not be excessive and it also pretty much eliminated the "metal on metal" noise. By the way ...we bought the Equal-i-zer (600/6,000 model). 'Slogger ------------- Livin' the Dream ...'Slogger |
Posted By: Seanl
Date Posted: 20 Aug 2012 at 2:54pm
I have an E2 WDH with sway control and I just got back from a 2000 mile trip. This is the longest trip I have taken with the pod. I was carrying a 130 lbs generator on the tongue of the pod so I really needed the WDH. It took me two days to get the WDH set properly. I put axle risers on the pod and added weight to the tongue so all my settings had changed.
I drove for 2 hours the first day and the trailer swayed a little in the wind and was porpoising a little. The first day I raised the brackets to give me a little more Weight Distribution. That was a lot better but I needed a little more sway control so I put another washer on the head to angle it down a little bit more and that did the trick. In a strong cross wind I can get a little bit of sway but it is more than manageable and I don't want to put anymore spring in because I don't want to take weight off the back wheels. With the short wheelbase of my Jeep Liberty and the extra tongue weight I would not feel safe without the WDH and sway control. The creaking and groaning from the metal on metal sway control freaked my wife out though.  ------------- Sean, 2011 Rpod RP-173,2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition
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Posted By: this_is_nascar
Date Posted: 20 Aug 2012 at 4:39pm
The E2 trunnion version is what I'm going to get. Was the basic installation difficult? I'm not exactly the handiest of people.
------------- "Ray & Connie" - 2017 R-Pod RP-180 - 2007 Toyota Tacoma TRD-Off Road |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 20 Aug 2012 at 5:01pm
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If you use the online tools available on the main Equalizer web site (I don't think they are on the E2 site) then the initial setup isn't bad. I didn't have those tools and I spent hours getting my setup right. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: Seanl
Date Posted: 20 Aug 2012 at 8:16pm
The manual that comes with the hitch is very good at explaining setup. What happened to me was I added over 100 pounds to the tongue of my trailer so my original setup was to light. ------------- Sean, 2011 Rpod RP-173,2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition
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Posted By: Burt
Date Posted: 21 Aug 2012 at 10:28am
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Posted By: Burt
Date Posted: 21 Aug 2012 at 10:35am
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We have an RP171 and the TV is a Ford Ranger 4..0 L V6, 4WD. We did put on a weight distribution set and later added the sway bar (right side only). We live and play near the Columbia River Gorge which can get gale force winds. The POD rides perfectly and has never swayed or been a "rocking" issue. It tows nicely. If you live in an area that can get unexpected storms or gusts, both weight distribution and sway bars are recommended and our experiences are proof of that. Coming up the Columbia River gorge has many areas where downdrafts from the higher mountains can and do bring wind blasts unexpectedly. Crossing the Columbia River bridges can be very windy at times. The stability of both has been very helpful for our setup. Good choosing. Burt, Laura the White Tornado and Buddy the Wonder Labradork. |
Posted By: this_is_nascar
Date Posted: 22 Aug 2012 at 4:00pm
Which WDH system are you using?
------------- "Ray & Connie" - 2017 R-Pod RP-180 - 2007 Toyota Tacoma TRD-Off Road |
Posted By: this_is_nascar
Date Posted: 22 Aug 2012 at 4:19pm
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Found a place online that has the E2 800/8000 trunnion version for about $360 shipped. I can't pass up that price. I want to get that one since my Jayco runs about 4500-lbs with 600-lbs tongue weight.
------------- "Ray & Connie" - 2017 R-Pod RP-180 - 2007 Toyota Tacoma TRD-Off Road |
Posted By: this_is_nascar
Date Posted: 22 Aug 2012 at 4:22pm
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I'm assuming these come with the ball when you order. Would that be a safe assumption?
------------- "Ray & Connie" - 2017 R-Pod RP-180 - 2007 Toyota Tacoma TRD-Off Road |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 22 Aug 2012 at 9:35pm
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No, you have to order the ball, too. Or order one from another supplier. They warn of making sure to get the right size (threaded circumference, length). I just bit the bullet and bought the one they sell.
------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: Seanl
Date Posted: 22 Aug 2012 at 9:41pm
That is a good price. I paid about that for my 600/6000. They don't come with the ball because the ball size could be 2" or 2 5/16" depending on trailer. ------------- Sean, 2011 Rpod RP-173,2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition
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Posted By: this_is_nascar
Date Posted: 23 Aug 2012 at 7:05am
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OK thanks. They shouldn't show it with the ball mounted in all the pics then. It's pretty deceiving.
------------- "Ray & Connie" - 2017 R-Pod RP-180 - 2007 Toyota Tacoma TRD-Off Road |
Posted By: rpodcamper.com
Date Posted: 23 Aug 2012 at 10:47am
| where did you find that good price? I'm on the fence about adding one to my rig |
Posted By: Footslogger03
Date Posted: 23 Aug 2012 at 11:21am
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Just as another point of reference ...e-trailer.com offers some great internet deals now and then. That's where we got our "Equal-i-zer" 600/6,000 hitch. As previously mentioned though, you need to buy the "ball" separately because they normally install these on larger trailers that accept a ball that is larger than 2" and the Pod trailer will only accept the 2" size. Plus, the ball needs to have a larger (thicker) shank and be of a certain length so that it won't interfere with the hitch itself. The ball we needed was called an "8K" ball because it was rated at 8,000 lbs. Equal-i-zer and other manufacturers make these but they are generally not available (at least in my experience) at local hardware stores or Walmart/Kmart.
'Slogger ------------- Livin' the Dream ...'Slogger |
Posted By: Seanl
Date Posted: 23 Aug 2012 at 1:53pm
I don't know where he got it but RVW has them for $332.00 and they have free shipping. http://www.rvwholesalers.com/catalog/8k-e2-trunnion-hitch-14-5611.html - http://www.rvwholesalers.com/catalog/8k-e2-trunnion-hitch-14-5611.html ------------- Sean, 2011 Rpod RP-173,2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition
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Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 23 Aug 2012 at 2:13pm
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I'm pretty sure RVWholesalers is where I got mine last year. This page shows their ball selection. http://www.rvwholesalers.com/catalog/rvw-tow-center-travel-trailer-hitches-e2-weight-distribution-travel-trailer-hitches/ - http://www.rvwholesalers.com/catalog/rvw-tow-center-travel-trailer-hitches-e2-weight-distribution-travel-trailer-hitches/ ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: this_is_nascar
Date Posted: 27 Aug 2012 at 8:00am
http://www.adventurerv.net/equalizer-weight-distribution-hitch-8000-lbs-p-10921.html
------------- "Ray & Connie" - 2017 R-Pod RP-180 - 2007 Toyota Tacoma TRD-Off Road |
Posted By: this_is_nascar
Date Posted: 27 Aug 2012 at 8:02am
I thought the RPODS used a 2 5/16" ball.
------------- "Ray & Connie" - 2017 R-Pod RP-180 - 2007 Toyota Tacoma TRD-Off Road |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 27 Aug 2012 at 8:27am
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2 inches is standard for the pods, and most trailers. I think you need to get into the really heavy rigs before you get to the larger ball (and many of them will have a 5th wheel or "ring" hitch instead). ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: this_is_nascar
Date Posted: 27 Aug 2012 at 8:55am
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OK, thanks. I think I'm confusing it with my Jayco. I think that has the 2 5/16" ball. As far as this E2 hitch, when you purchase the ball, is there enough space to use the wrench to install it or do you need to spend the outrageous price for that thin-walled socket? I have the long wrench, but not the socket. ------------- "Ray & Connie" - 2017 R-Pod RP-180 - 2007 Toyota Tacoma TRD-Off Road |
Posted By: Footslogger03
Date Posted: 27 Aug 2012 at 9:19am
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Yes ...you need a large thin walled socket (3/4" drive) to tighten the bolt on the ball shank. I went to ACE Hardware and bought a 3/4" breaker bar to snug it down rather than use an adapter on my 1/2" bar (which is shorter and has less leverage. I paid around $38 for the socket ...but now I've got one in my tool box. Another thing is that all 2" balls are not created equal. You need the 8,000lb rated balls with a 1/14" diameter shank that is 2 3/8" long.
'Slogger ------------- Livin' the Dream ...'Slogger |
Posted By: Seanl
Date Posted: 27 Aug 2012 at 9:21am
I bought a thin walled socket from an autoparts store and it worked fine. I don't think you can get the long wrench on the nut but I don't have the hitch right here to check. ------------- Sean, 2011 Rpod RP-173,2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition
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Posted By: Seanl
Date Posted: 27 Aug 2012 at 9:24am
I could not find a 1 1/4 inch shank 2 inch ball so I talked to a trailer hitch place and they had a spacer that went around the 1 inch to fit the 1 1/4 hole. ------------- Sean, 2011 Rpod RP-173,2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition
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Posted By: Footslogger03
Date Posted: 27 Aug 2012 at 9:30am
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I'm no expert here ...but I am not certain that the thinner shank with a sleeve has the same rating as a 1 1/4" shank. I had to order one. They are commonly referred to as an "8K" hitch ball. I actually ordered mine directly from Equal-i-zer who, by the way, makes and sells both the Equalizer hitch AND the E2 hitch. Can't remember the exact price of the ball but it wasn't that much and from what I understand you are supposed to use a ball of that capacity as part of the warrany.
'Slogger ------------- Livin' the Dream ...'Slogger |
Posted By: Footslogger03
Date Posted: 27 Aug 2012 at 10:26am
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For what it's worth ...when I ordered my Equal-i-zer WDH on-line (e-trailer.com) there was a comment at the bottom of the page that said ..."this hitch requires the 2 5/16" Ball with a 1 1/4" x 2 3/8" shank. Without going out and measuring the hitch on the Pod I went ahead and ordered that ball with the hitch kit.
Long story short ...I now have that ball sitting on my workbench, since I ended up having to order a 2" ball after the fact. If anyone is interested in buying it just let me know. 'Slogger ------------- Livin' the Dream ...'Slogger |
Posted By: Seanl
Date Posted: 27 Aug 2012 at 12:46pm
You are correct a 1 inch shank only has a 5K rating but since a 2 inch ball only has a 5K rating as well there is no issue with using the sleeve since you are not going to get a trailer over 5K with a 2 inch ball on it. ------------- Sean, 2011 Rpod RP-173,2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition
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Posted By: danthoman
Date Posted: 27 Aug 2012 at 9:28pm
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After reading all the posts I think I've decided on the 8k E2 wdh but I'm still concerned about the noise problem I keep hearing about. Is this really an issue? I haven't heard about any noise problems with the andersen hitch. Maybe I'll go with that instead. |
Posted By: Footslogger03
Date Posted: 27 Aug 2012 at 9:30pm
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It all depends on how much tension you put on the bars. The "noise" is metal on metal. A certain amount of that is normal and an indication that the hitch is doing its job. Too much probably means that you need to make an adjustment.
'Slogger ------------- Livin' the Dream ...'Slogger |
Posted By: Seanl
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2012 at 12:03am
Mine only makes a grinding noise when I am making a sharp turn at low speeds. My wife is more troubled by it than I am because she thinks is means there is a problem. Equalizer makes a set of plastic spacers that you can get to reduce the noise but it reduces the sway control which defeats the purpose of the hitch in the first place. ------------- Sean, 2011 Rpod RP-173,2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition
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Posted By: this_is_nascar
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2012 at 7:14am
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Thanks for all the helpful info. By time you add the ball and the thin-walled socket, you just added another $60 or so to the total price. Having a camper is getting like owning a boat............. you're constantly throwing money into it.
------------- "Ray & Connie" - 2017 R-Pod RP-180 - 2007 Toyota Tacoma TRD-Off Road |
Posted By: Seanl
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2012 at 8:50am
Yep they are bottomless pits to throw money into. I did get the socket and ball locally for less that they cost online though. I paid $15 for the ball and I had the socket already but I think I paid $10 for it at an autoparts store. ------------- Sean, 2011 Rpod RP-173,2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition
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Posted By: danthoman
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2012 at 8:52am
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Thanks for the help. How much does the hitch weight? The shipping weight is 100 pounds. That seems like a lot to add to the tongue weight. I also own a boat, and yes, I'm always throwing money into it. I hope I use the r-pod a lot more than I use the boat. |
Posted By: Seanl
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2012 at 9:03am
I have never weighed it but the head has to weigh 35-45 lbs and each of the bars would be 5 lbs so maybe 50 lbs 60 at most. Now that's for the 600/6000 hitch. The bars will be heavier on a bigger one. The effect though is that of reducing tongue weight as it transfers some of the weight to the front wheels of the TV and the the trailer. So while total weight goes up effective tongue weight does not. ------------- Sean, 2011 Rpod RP-173,2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition
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Posted By: Footslogger03
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2012 at 9:10am
============================ It comes in 2 boxes. Hitch head is a boat anchor ! The bars (mine are trunion style) weigh at least 15lbs a piece. Not sure the total is 100lbs - - my guess is that the "rounded up". Mine is the Equal-i-zer 600/6,000 ...so I'm guessing that the 800/8,000 model will be heavier, as already said. 'Slogger ------------- Livin' the Dream ...'Slogger |
Posted By: danthoman
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2012 at 2:31pm
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I think I'm going to go with the Andersen hitch. It seems simpler and I don't have to deal with shims and L brackets, just loosen or tighten the chains. The main reason I probably won't buy the E2 is that I don't like being nickle and dime'ed to death. I have to buy the hitch, then the ball, then the socket, then the ratchet bar. I thought I had a big air impact wrench but it only goes to 250 ft/pounds. I called my mechanic and he said he didn't know anyone around with a 450 pound torque wrench. Now my only problem is figuring out how much drop/rise I need for the xterra and the tacoma. That will have to wait for a sunny day. |
Posted By: Seanl
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2012 at 2:41pm
I love the idea of how the Anderson works but could not find anyone using it when I was looking. Let us know how it works ------------- Sean, 2011 Rpod RP-173,2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition
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Posted By: Footslogger03
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2012 at 4:27pm
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Yeah ...keep us posted. I got a great price (all things being relative) on the Equalizer 600/6,000 and it has made a world of difference in the ride and feel of towing our 177. No sway any more and it pretty much glides over the seams in the highway - - well, maybe not the really bad ones :-)
'Slogger ------------- Livin' the Dream ...'Slogger |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2012 at 7:39am
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Doing a little maintenance, I moved this over to the maintenance forum. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: Podsible Dream
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2012 at 12:12pm
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The manual that came with my E2 hitch(not used - came from the first owner that had a Jeep) says that the minimum trailer tongue weight needs to be 400 lbs. I would be really pushing the limits of my suspension on the Dakota if I loaded the front of the trailer to that level, given that the hitch itself weighs close to 100 lbs.
Any comments? I am thinking of putting it on this weekend to see if it makes a difference in the ride. ------------- Chris and Walt '10 RP-171 'Free Spirit' '13 Dodge Durango Crew 5.7 L Hemi V8 |
Posted By: DennyMo
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2012 at 12:15pm
I just ordered a E2 Weight Distribution with 2-Point Sway Control Trunnion 800 / 8,000 lb Trunnion from the RVWholesalers website for my swaying R177Thanks so much for the info, references and chat about this! |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2012 at 12:40pm
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Walt, if you start out with a tongue weight of 400 pounds, after you apply the spring bars it will be within your Dakota's limits (which I suspect is 300 or 350 pounds). Odd that it says that, I don't remember reading that in my E2 manual and mine certainly is below 400 pounds - dry hitch weight is 225 pounds and the only way I would get close to 350 would be with a full water tank. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: Podsible Dream
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2012 at 1:25pm
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I thought your experience was with the E2. And it really helped the ride.
After seeing that number in the manual a couple of places, I started to wonder about the effect if the tongue wt was lower than the stated 400lbs. Ok. I'll give it a try. PS, I added a second 30 watt panel to my solar array so we'll see how well it works.. We' ll be dry camping at a PA park - Locust Lake- this weekend. I also installed a "watts up" meter for the battery array which gives readings of instantaneous voltage, amperage draw, and watts. It also provides elapsed time measures for amp-hrs and volt-hrs. So I can provide some real time battery amp hour usage numbers for everyone's reference. ------------- Chris and Walt '10 RP-171 'Free Spirit' '13 Dodge Durango Crew 5.7 L Hemi V8 |
Posted By: rpodcamper.com
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2012 at 3:17pm
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You will be up in my neck of the woods this weekend Walt. Cann't wait to see numbers on the solar panel. Have fun up in Locust Lake. BTW if you go in by RT 61 there is a pretty steep hill you will climb and also some curve so take it easy going in and out. |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2012 at 4:40pm
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Yes, I definitely get an improved ride with the E2, even though I don't need it with my current rig. Smoke it if you got it, I mean, use it if you got it. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: danthoman
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2012 at 4:45pm
| Just ordered the Andersen hitch. Hope it's a good one. I'll let you know what I think of it in late September. We're supposed to go to Cloudland Canyon park (Georgia) mid month. That should be a good test heading up into the mountains. We were going to go someplace close by this week but wisely decided to see what the weather was going to do. |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2012 at 5:05pm
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I'll be interested to hear the results. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: Podsible Dream
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2012 at 5:06pm
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Quit smoking 20 years ago - tho I did for more years than that- it truly was good to have them on breaks in the Army!
Anyway, my E2 is too big, although it is a 600/6000, the shank is L shape, not T shape, so when it points up, the ball is too high, and when it points down, you think Paul Bunyan could carve the Grand Canyon?, the shank just rests about 1 mm below ground level. So... For Sale . One slightly used E2 WDH/antisway hitch, complete with 2" ball. Probably best on high growing clearance vehicle. Best obtained by local pickup. Send a PM to ' podsible dream'. ------------- Chris and Walt '10 RP-171 'Free Spirit' '13 Dodge Durango Crew 5.7 L Hemi V8 |
Posted By: Podsible Dream
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2012 at 5:12pm
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Thanks,Peter. That area of eastern PA has some nice country. This will be our fourth trip - two to French Creek, once to Francis Slocum up by Wilkes Barre, and now Locust Lake. I am debating, whether to go over 61 or go by 309 thru Tamaqua which looks a little flatter. Looking forward to a pleasant weekend in the woods!
Are you able to make it to the round up in LaPorte on 9/22-23? ------------- Chris and Walt '10 RP-171 'Free Spirit' '13 Dodge Durango Crew 5.7 L Hemi V8 |
Posted By: Footslogger03
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2012 at 5:17pm
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Kind of a shame you have to sell it. Have you looked into the possibility of getting a portion of that vertical piece cut off ? Mine (Equalizer) points downward too. In fact, I bottomed out pulling into the ACE Hardward lot today (big dip at the curve). Anywah ...so far when I am towing it has yet to hit the ground or cause a problem.
'Slogger ------------- Livin' the Dream ...'Slogger |
Posted By: Seanl
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2012 at 5:32pm
That's to bad. Mine has the T shank I I wish I had another inch or two. The pod is slightly nose up when I am towing.
------------- Sean, 2011 Rpod RP-173,2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition
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Posted By: Footslogger03
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2012 at 5:58pm
That's to bad. Mine has the T shank I I wish I had another inch or two. The pod is slightly nose up when I am towing.
[/QUOTE] ============================= "T shank" ?? Pretty sure that's how I would describe mine too - - but one end of the "T" (vertically) is longer than the other. I tried flipping it over but the ball height was wrong. Works best with the long end of the "T" pointed downward ...but I must admit that I am always a bit conscious when I drive over a dip in the road or hit a sudden steep uphill, after a dip. 'Slogger ------------- Livin' the Dream ...'Slogger |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2012 at 9:07pm
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There are about a dozen different shank sizes. I had to get a much longer one for my new TV. I still have my shorter shank, if you measure yours I can compare with mine, which worked on my fairly short minivan. Cheap deal, delivery to the gathering next month?
------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: Podsible Dream
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2012 at 9:49pm
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Good deal! Sounds like a plan. I'll measure tomorrow and let you know. ------------- Chris and Walt '10 RP-171 'Free Spirit' '13 Dodge Durango Crew 5.7 L Hemi V8 |
Posted By: this_is_nascar
Date Posted: 31 Aug 2012 at 7:36am
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Well, now I'm worried again about ordering one of these. I thought there'd be enough built-in adjustability to handle just about any setup. Not sure what to do now.
------------- "Ray & Connie" - 2017 R-Pod RP-180 - 2007 Toyota Tacoma TRD-Off Road |
Posted By: Seanl
Date Posted: 31 Aug 2012 at 7:53am
You just need to get the right shank length there is a tool on the equalizer website for figuring it out. The only reason mine is a little short is I did not have the lift kit on the trailer and I guessed at the ball height after I installed it and I was an inch out. Mine still works I am just slightly nose up on the trailer when I tow. ------------- Sean, 2011 Rpod RP-173,2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition
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Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 31 Aug 2012 at 9:29am
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Yes, that online tool will tell you exactly what you need. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: rpodcamper.com
Date Posted: 02 Sep 2012 at 12:52am
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here is the link for seeing what shank you need. http://www.equalizerhitch.com/About%20Equal-i-zer/shanksizes.php - http://www.equalizerhitch.com/About%20Equal-i-zer/shanksizes.php
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