Weight distribution bars (also known as weight distribution hitches or WD bars) are devices that are attached to the trailer tongue and the tow vehicle.
The purpose of these bars is to distribute the trailer’s weight evenly between the tow vehicle and the trailer tongue.
But do you need to remove these bars before backing up?
In this blog post, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide some tips.
Should I Remove The Weight Distribution Bars Before Backing Up?
The answer is no, you don’t need to remove your weight distribution bars before backing up.
In fact, it’s actually better to leave them attached.
This is because the weight distribution bars help to keep the trailer tongue from swinging too far to one side or the other, which can make backing up difficult.
Leave them attached and enjoy an easier time backing up your trailer.
Top 6 Reasons Why You May Need to Remove Weight Distribution Bars
There are some circumstances where you may need to remove the weight distribution bars.
Here are the top 6 reasons why you may need to remove weight distribution bars:
1. If you’re attaching a trailer to a fifth-wheel hitch, you’ll need to remove the weight distribution bars first.
2. If you’re having difficulty attaching or removing the bars, it’s best to remove them. This will make it easier to attach or remove the bars without damaging them.
3. If you’re not using the trailer for an extended period of time, you may want to remove the bars to prevent them from rusting.
4. If you’re storing the trailer in an area where the weight distribution bars could be damaged, it’s best to remove them.
5. If you’re traveling on a road that has a lot of bumps or potholes, you may want to remove the bars to avoid damaging them.
6. If you’re having difficulty attaching or removing the trailer tongue, it’s best to remove the weight distribution bars.
This will make it easier to attach or remove the trailer tongue without damaging it.
How Difficult Is It To Remove Weight Distribution Bars?
The difficulty of removing weight distribution bars will depend on the type of hitch you have.
If you have a fifth-wheel hitch, it’s very easy to remove the weight distribution bars.
However, if you have a gooseneck hitch, it can be more difficult to remove the bars.
What are the steps to remove weight distribution bars?
If you need to remove your weight distribution bars, follow these steps:
1. Park the tow vehicle and trailer on a level surface.
2. Apply the parking brake and chock the wheels of the trailer.
3. Disconnect the trailer from the tow vehicle.
4. Remove the pins that hold the weight distribution bars in place.
5. Lift the weight distribution bars off of the trailer tongue.
6. Store the weight distribution bars in a safe place.
What Are The Risks Of Not Removing Weight Distribution Bars Before Backing Up?
There are a few risks associated with not removing weight distribution bars before backing up.
First, the trailer tongue could swing too far to one side or the other, making it difficult to back up.
Second, the weight distribution bars could be damaged if they hit something while you’re backing up.
Finally, if the weight distribution bars are not removed before backing up, they may not be properly secured when you’re ready to tow again.
How can I avoid damage to my vehicle while removing weight distribution bars?
There are a few things you can do to avoid damage to your vehicle while removing weight distribution bars.
1. Make sure that the trailer is properly secured before starting to remove the bars.
2. Use caution when removing the pins that hold the weight distribution bars in place.
The pins can be sharp and may cause damage if not handled carefully.
3. Be careful not to drop the weight distribution bars while removing them.
The bars are heavy and may cause damage if they hit your vehicle.
4. Store the weight distribution bars in a safe place where they will not be damaged while you’re working on your vehicle.
How To Re-Attach Weight Distribution Bars?
Weight distribution bars should be re-attached when you’re ready to tow the trailer again.
To re-attach the weight distribution bars, follow these steps:
1. Park the tow vehicle and trailer on a level surface.
2. Apply the parking brake and chock the wheels of the trailer.
3. Reconnect the trailer to the tow vehicle.
4. Lift the weight distribution bars into place on the trailer tongue.
5. Insert the pins to hold the weight distribution bars in place.
6. Tighten all of the bolts and nuts on the hitch to secure the weight distribution bars in place.
7. Test that everything is secure by tugging on the hitch slightly before driving off.
When should I reattach the weight distribution bars?
You should reattach the weight distribution bars when you’re finished using the trailer.
This will help to keep the trailer tongue from swinging too far to one side or the other, which can make backing up difficult.
Additionally, the weight distribution bars can be damaged if they hit something while you’re backing up.
Finally, if the weight distribution bars are not removed before backing up, they may not be properly secured when you’re ready to tow again.
FAQs on removing weight distribution bars before backing up
Can I Remove The Weight Distribution Bars Before Backing Up?
Yes, you can remove weight distribution bars before backing up.
However, doing so may make your trailer more difficult to control.
Will My Trailer Be More Difficult To Control Without Weight Distribution Bars While Backing Up?
Without weight distribution bars, your trailer may be more difficult to control while backing up.
What Are Some Tips For Backing Up With A Trailer Without Weight Distribution Bars?
Some tips for backing up with a trailer without weight distribution bars include:
1. Go slowly
2. Use extra caution
3. Have someone guide you if possible.
Conclusion:
Now you know everything you need to know about removing weight distribution bars before backing up.
Be sure to practice caution and follow the steps outlined in this article to avoid any damage to your vehicle or trailer.
Thanks for reading!