Best Weight Distribution Hitches With Sway Control 2025

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Why You Need a Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control

If you’re towing a camper or any bumper pull trailer, a weight distribution hitch with sway control is a must for a smoother, safer ride. It improves steering, braking, and stability while keeping trailer sway in check.

For me, it’s all about safety—for both my passengers and my tow vehicle.

A simple rule: if your trailer weighs more than 50% of your tow vehicle’s weight, you need a weight distribution hitch to balance the load and reduce sway. Check your vehicle’s towing specs to confirm.

Also, weight distribution and sway control aren’t the same thinglearn more here. Most modern hitches offer both, but always double-check before buying.

In this review, I’ll cover the best hitches with weight distribution and sway control. Some work better than others, but I’m including a variety of styles to match different trailers and tow vehicles.

Before getting into the details, keep in mind that while my lists and reviews cover specific models, you should always buy a hitch with the weight capacity that matches your trailer—no more, no less. A lot of these models come in different sizes for different capacity needs.

And remember, an underrated hitch won’t provide enough support, while an overrated hitch can reduce effectiveness.

  • My Choice: Equal-i-zer 4-point Sway Control Hitch | #9_Equal-i-zer_4-point_Sway_Control_Hitch | Strong sway control, easy to install, and no separate sway bar to remove when reversing. | View on Amazon
  • Best for Budget Buyers: Fastway e2 2-Point | #8_Fastway_e2_2-Point | Affordable, simple to set up, and provides basic sway control for lighter trailers. | View on Amazon
  • Best Premium: ProPride 3P Jim Hensley Hitch | #12_3P_Jim_Hensley_Hitch | Eliminates sway entirely but comes at a high price and heavier weight, ideal for serious haulers. | View on Amazon
  • Best Lightweight & Quiet Hitch: Andersen Hitches No-Sway | #10_Andersen_Hitches_No-Sway | Lighter and quieter than traditional hitches, using chain and spring tension for sway control. | View on Amazon

Best Weight Distribution Hitches Info

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ModelWeight Capacity (GTW/TW)Sway Control TypeNoise LevelCompatibilityCan Use In ReverseHitch WeightLink
VEVOR Weight Distribution Hitch, 1,000 lbs Weight Distributing Hitches...VEVOR Weight Distribution Hitch10,000 lbs/1,000 lbsIntegratedModerateFits standard 2″ receiversYes84 lbs/38 kgAmazon
RVMATE 1000 lbs Weight Distribution Hitch Kit with Sway Control, 2-in...RVMATE Weight Distribution Hitch12,000 lbs/1,200 lbsExternalModerateFits standard 2″ receiversYes104.8 lbs/47.5 kgAmazon
Husky Towing 30849 Weight Distribution HitchHusky 30849 Weight Distribution Hitch12,000 lbs/1,200 lbsExternalModerateFits standard 2″ receiversYes104 lbs/47 kgAmazon
Camco Eaz-Lift Elite 1,000lb Weight Distributing Hitch Kit with Sway...Camco Eaz-Lift Elite 4805812,000 lbs/1,200 lbsExternalModerate/LoudFits standard 2″ receiversNoNo infoAmazon
CURT 17063 Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with Integrated...CURT 1706314,000 lbs/1,400 lbsExternalModerateFits standard 2″ receiversNo102 lbs/46 kgAmazon
Reese Integrated Sway Control Weight Distribution Kit For Trailer ,...Reese 4991311,500 lbs/1,150 lbsIntegratedModerateFits standard 2″ receiversYes102.6 lbs/46.5 kgAmazon
Center Line TS Weight Distribution Hitch - 2-5/16' Ball - 12,000lbsHusky Center Line TS Weight Distribution Hitch12,000 lbs/1,200 lbsIntegratedQuiet/ModerateFits standard 2″ receiversYes116.8 lbs/53 kgAmazon
Fastway e2 2-Point Sway Control Round Bar Hitch, 94-00-0800, 8,000 Lbs...Fastway e2 2-Point8,000 lbs/800 lbsIntegratedModerateFits standard 2″ receiversYes82 lbs/37 kgAmazon
Equal-i-zer 4-point Sway Control Hitch, 90-00-1069, 10,000 Lbs Trailer...Equal-i-zer 4-point Sway Control Hitch10,000 lbs/1,000 lbsIntegratedLoudFits standard 2″ receiversYes106.5 lbs/48.3 kgAmazon
Andersen HITCHES | 3394 | Weight Distribution Hitch | No Bounce No...Andersen Hitches No-Sway16,000 lbs/1,600 lbsChain & Spring TensionQuietFits standard 2″ receiversYes49 lbs/22.2 kgAmazon
Blue Ox BXW1000 SwayPro Weight Distribution Hitch - 1000lb Tounge...Blue Ox BXW1000 SwayPro20,000 lbs/1,000 lbsSpring TensionQuietFits standard 2″ receiversYesNo infoAmazon
ProPride Hitch ProPride 3P Jim Hensley Hitch for Sway Elimination and...3P Jim Hensley Hitch14,000 lbs/1,400 lbsPivot-point Projection SystemQuietFits standard 2″ receiversYes195 lbs/88.5 kgAmazon

Reviews

1. VEVOR Weight Distribution Hitch

VEVOR Weight Distribution Hitch, 1,000 lbs Weight Distributing Hitches...

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My Thoughts

The VEVOR Weight Distribution Hitch is a budget-friendly option for trailers up to 10,000 lbs GTW and 1,000 lbs TW, making it a good fit for small to mid-sized travel trailers and utility trailers.

The low price makes it a solid choice for occasional towing. Integrated sway control helps, and the round bar design is easy to set up but can be noisy, like most in this category.

It installs easily and fits standard 2-inch receivers, but build quality isn’t as solid as higher-end hitches, and sway control isn’t adjustable.

For light-duty towing, this does the job. If you tow often or haul a heavier trailer, a stronger hitch is a better investment.

My Verdict

This VEVOR Weight Distribution Hitch is a solid budget option for casual towing, but serious haulers may want something with stronger sway control and higher durability.

Pros

  • Affordable compared to most hitches
  • Integrated sway control
  • Easy to install
  • Fits standard 2″ receivers

Cons

  • Can be noisy when towing
  • Build quality isn’t as solid as premium models
  • Not ideal for trailers over 10,000 lbs

Buy This If You:

  • Need an affordable hitch with sway control
  • Tow occasionally and don’t need top-tier sway control
  • Have a trailer under 10,000 lbs GTW
  • Want something easy to install

Don’t Buy This If You:

  • Tow frequently and need stronger sway control
  • Have a heavy trailer needing more capacity
  • Want a quieter hitch
  • Prefer premium durability

2. RVMATE Weight Distribution Hitch

RVMATE 1000 lbs Weight Distribution Hitch Kit with Sway Control, 2-in...

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My Thoughts

The RVMATE Weight Distribution Hitch is a budget-friendly option rated for 10,000 lbs GTW and 1,000 lbs TW.

It comes with everything needed for installation, including a pre-installed hitch ball and integrated sway control.

The round bar design is easy to set up but can be noisy.

Sway control works, but it’s not as strong as a 4-point system.

For light to medium towing, this gets the job done. If you tow heavy loads or frequently deal with crosswinds, a higher-end hitch is the better choice.

My Verdict

The RVMATE Weight Distribution Hitch is a solid entry-level choice, but frequent haulers will want something stronger.

Pros

  • Affordable and includes everything for setup
  • Fits standard 2″ receivers
  • Easy to install and use

Cons

  • Basic sway control, not as strong as 4-point hitches
  • Can be noisy when towing
  • Not built for heavy-duty or frequent towing

Buy This If You:

  • Need a budget-friendly hitch for occasional towing
  • Have a trailer under 10,000 lbs GTW
  • Want an easy-to-install setup with pre-installed components

Don’t Buy This If You:

  • Tow frequently or need stronger sway control
  • Have a heavy trailer that needs more capacity
  • Want a quieter, more durable hitch

3. Husky 30849 Weight Distribution Hitch

Husky Towing 30849 Weight Distribution Hitch

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My Thoughts

The Husky 30849 is a mid-range weight distribution hitch rated for 12,000 lbs GTW and 1,200 lbs TW. It’s a round bar system with an external sway control brake pad, making it a step up from budget models while still being affordable.

It’s fairly easy to install, with a pre-installed hitch ball and simple bracket setup.

Like most round bar designs, it can be noisy, and sway control isn’t as strong as 4-point hitches.

This is a good option for mid-sized trailers and RVs if you want better stability without spending too much.

For heavy trailers or frequent long-haul towing, a higher-end hitch will be the better choice.

My Verdict

The Husky 30849 is a good balance of price and performance, but serious haulers should look at more advanced hitches.

Pros

  • Pre-installed hitch ball for easier setup
  • Mid-range price with good stability

Cons

  • Round bar design can be noisy
  • Sway control isn’t as strong as 4-point hitches
  • Not ideal for very heavy trailers or extreme towing conditions

Buy This If You:

  • Need a solid mid-range hitch with sway control
  • Tow a medium-sized trailer or RV under 12,000 lbs
  • Want an easier install with a pre-installed hitch ball

Don’t Buy This If You:

  • Need stronger sway control for larger trailers
  • Want a quieter hitch
  • Tow frequently and need a more durable premium option

4. Camco Eaz-Lift Elite 48058

Camco Eaz-Lift Elite 1,000lb Weight Distributing Hitch Kit with Sway...

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My Thoughts

The Camco Eaz-Lift Elite 48058 is a budget-friendly weight distribution hitch rated for 10,000 lbs GTW and 1,000 lbs TW.

It uses a round bar design with an external sway control bar, making it a decent entry-level option but not as strong as integrated sway control systems.

One big plus is that it comes as a complete kit, including a pre-installed hitch ball and sway control bar. Setup is straightforward, though the external sway bar must be disconnected before reversing, which can be annoying.

Like most round bar hitches, it can be noisy, and the sway control isn’t as strong as 4-point or premium hitches.

For occasional towing with smaller trailers and RVs, it works fine. If you tow regularly or need better sway control, there are stronger options out there.

My Verdict

The Camco Eaz-Lift Elite 48058 is a good starter hitch, but serious haulers should look for a stronger, more convenient setup.

Pros

  • Affordable and includes everything needed for setup
  • Pre-installed hitch ball and sway control bar
  • Simple to install and use

Cons

  • Sway control isn’t integrated and must be disconnected before reversing
  • Round bar design can be noisy
  • Not as effective for heavy trailers or frequent long-haul towing

Buy This If You:

  • Need a budget-friendly weight distribution hitch
  • Tow occasionally and want a complete kit
  • Have a small to mid-sized trailer under 10,000 lbs GTW

Don’t Buy This If You:

  • Want stronger, integrated sway control
  • Tow frequently or have a heavier trailer
  • Don’t want to disconnect the sway bar before reversing

5. CURT 17063

CURT 17063 Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with Integrated...

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My Thoughts

The CURT 17063 is a mid-range weight distribution hitch rated for 14,000 lbs GTW and 1,400 lbs TW, making it a solid choice for heavier travel trailers and utility trailers.

It uses a round bar design with an external sway control brake bar.

One of the biggest advantages is its higher weight capacity, making it more versatile than budget options.

The installation is straightforward, and it fits standard 2-inch receivers. Like most round bar hitches, it can be noisy, and sway control isn’t as strong as 4-point systems.

For mid to heavy-duty towing, this is a good option at a reasonable price. If you tow frequently and want quieter, stronger sway control, a premium hitch may be the better choice.

My Verdict

The CURT 17063 is a solid mid-range hitch with a higher weight capacity, but serious haulers should consider a 4-point or premium system for better sway control.

Pros

  • Higher weight capacity than most mid-range hitches
  • Straightforward installation

Cons

  • Round bar design can be noisy
  • Sway control isn’t as strong as 4-point or premium hitches

Buy This If You:

  • Need a higher-capacity hitch for trailers up to 14,000 lbs
  • Tow occasionally or moderately and need a reliable setup

Don’t Buy This If You:

  • Tow frequently and need better sway control
  • Want a quieter, premium hitch
  • Have a lighter trailer and don’t need the extra capacity

6. Reese 49913

Reese Integrated Sway Control Weight Distribution Kit For Trailer ,...

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My Thoughts

The Reese 49913 is a mid-range weight distribution hitch rated for 11,500 lbs GTW and 1,150 lbs TW. It features integrated sway control, making it a step up from basic models that require a separate sway bar.

It also comes with a pre-installed 2-5/16″ hitch ball and clamp-on brackets that eliminate the need for drilling, making installation easier.

One of its best features is the tapered spring bars, which provide more even weight distribution and a smoother towing experience. It also allows for reversing without disconnection, which isn’t always the case with budget models.

That said, sway control isn’t as strong as premium systems, and at 116 lbs, it’s on the heavier side.

This is a good choice for mid-sized trailers and RVs if you need better stability without going for a premium hitch. If you tow frequently in tough conditions, a 4-point or Hensley-style hitch may be the better choice.

My Verdict

The Reese 49913 is a good balance of price and performance, but serious haulers should look at stronger sway control systems.

Pros

  • Integrated sway control, no separate bar needed
  • Pre-installed hitch ball for easier setup
  • No-drill, clamp-on brackets for simpler installation
  • Allows reversing without disconnection

Cons

  • Sway control isn’t as strong as premium systems
  • Heavier than some similar models at 116 lbs
  • Not ideal for extreme towing conditions

Buy This If You:

  • Need a mid-range hitch with integrated sway control
  • Tow a medium-sized trailer or RV under 11,500 lbs
  • Want easier installation with no drilling required

Don’t Buy This If You:

  • Need stronger sway control for larger trailers
  • Want a lighter, more compact hitch
  • Tow frequently in extreme conditions and need premium stability

7. Husky Center Line TS Weight Distribution Hitch

Center Line TS Weight Distribution Hitch - 2-5/16' Ball - 12,000lbs

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My Thoughts

The Husky Center Line TS is a mid-range weight distribution hitch rated for 12,000 lbs GTW and 1,200 lbs TW. It features integrated sway control without requiring a separate sway bar, making it a step up from traditional chain-style systems.

One of its biggest advantages is quieter operation compared to round bar hitches, thanks to its trunnion bar design.

Installation is straightforward, and the EZ Adjust frame brackets make setup easier. It also allows for reversing without disconnection, which adds convenience.

This is a great choice for mid-sized trailers and RVs if you want solid sway control and weight distribution without going for a premium hitch.

If you tow in extreme conditions or need the best sway control available, you may want to upgrade.

My Verdict

The Husky Center Line TS is a solid mid-range hitch with quiet operation and easy setup, but serious haulers should consider a stronger sway control system.

Pros

  • Integrated sway control, no separate bar needed
  • Trunnion bar design for quieter operation
  • EZ Adjust frame brackets make installation easier
  • Allows reversing without disconnection

Cons

  • Sway control isn’t as strong as premium systems
  • Heavier than some models at 116 lbs
  • Not the best choice for extreme towing conditions

Buy This If You:

  • Want integrated sway control without a separate sway bar
  • Need a mid-range hitch for a trailer up to 12,000 lbs
  • Prefer a quieter trunnion bar design

Don’t Buy This If You:

  • Need stronger sway control for larger trailers
  • Want a lighter hitch for easier handling
  • Tow frequently in extreme conditions and need premium stability

8. Fastway e2 2-Point

Fastway e2 2-Point Sway Control Round Bar Hitch, 94-00-0800, 8,000 Lbs...

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My Thoughts

The Fastway e2 94-00-0800 is a budget-friendly weight distribution hitch rated for 8,000 lbs GTW and 800 lbs TW. It features integrated 2-point sway control, eliminating the need for a separate sway bar, making it a step up from basic chain-style hitches.

One of the biggest advantages is its all-in-one design, meaning no extra parts to remove when reversing.

Installation is simple, and it fits standard 2-inch receivers, making it widely compatible. However, sway control isn’t as strong as 4-point hitches, and like most round bar systems, it can be noisy.

For light to mid-sized trailers, this is a solid choice that provides basic sway control and weight distribution at a reasonable price.

If you need stronger sway control or tow frequently in rough conditions, you may want to upgrade.

My Verdict

The Fastway e2 94-00-0800 is a solid budget option for casual towing, but serious haulers should look at stronger 4-point sway control systems.

Pros

  • Integrated 2-point sway control, no separate bar needed
  • All-in-one design allows reversing without disconnection
  • Easy to install and fits standard 2″ receivers

Cons

  • Sway control isn’t as strong as 4-point or premium hitches
  • Can be noisy when towing
  • Not ideal for heavy trailers over 8,000 lbs

Buy This If You:

  • Need an affordable hitch with basic sway control
  • Have a light to mid-sized trailer under 8,000 lbs GTW
  • Want an easy-to-install system without extra parts

Don’t Buy This If You:

  • Tow frequently and need stronger sway control
  • Have a heavier trailer requiring more capacity
  • Want a quieter, more premium hitch

9. Equal-i-zer 4-point Sway Control Hitch

Equal-i-zer 4-point Sway Control Hitch, 90-00-1069, 10,000 Lbs Trailer...

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My Thoughts

The Equal-i-zer 4-Point Sway Control Hitch is a high-quality weight distribution hitch designed for stronger sway control than standard 2-point or round bar systems. With 4 points of friction sway control, it provides better stability, making it a top choice for serious haulers.

Unlike many hitches that require a separate sway bar, this system fully integrates sway control, meaning no extra parts to disconnect when reversing.

Installation is straightforward, and it fits standard 2-inch receivers.

However, it can be noisy due to the metal-on-metal friction, and it’s more expensive than entry-level options.

If you tow frequently or in rough conditions, this is one of the best hitches available. If you’re just towing occasionally and want to save money, a cheaper system might be enough.

My Verdict

The Equal-i-zer 4-Point Sway Control Hitch is one of the best all-around hitches for serious towing, but casual haulers may not need the extra cost and weight.

Pros

  • Strong 4-point integrated sway control
  • No need to disconnect sway control when reversing
  • Easy to install and fits standard 2″ receivers

Cons

  • More expensive than budget hitches
  • Metal-on-metal friction can be noisy
  • Heavier than some lower-end models

Buy This If You:

  • Tow frequently and need strong sway control
  • Have a mid to heavy trailer and want better stability
  • Want an all-in-one system with no separate sway bar

Don’t Buy This If You:

  • Tow occasionally and don’t need the strongest sway control
  • Want a cheaper option for light-duty towing
  • Prefer a quieter hitch

10. Andersen Hitches No-Sway

Andersen HITCHES | 3394 | Weight Distribution Hitch | No Bounce No...

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My Thoughts

The Andersen Hitches 3394 is a lightweight, modern alternative to traditional weight distribution hitches.

It’s rated for 16,000 lbs GTW and 1,600 lbs TW, making it a strong choice for larger trailers. Instead of heavy steel bars, it uses chains and spring tension, reducing noise and weight while still controlling sway.

One of its biggest advantages is that it’s much lighter than other hitches, weighing under 60 lbs.

It’s also quiet, since it doesn’t use metal-on-metal friction like round or trunnion bar systems. Setup is simple, and it fits standard 2-inch receivers. However, sway control isn’t as aggressive as 4-point systems, and it’s more expensive than many mid-range options.

If you’re looking for a lightweight, quieter hitch with modern technology, this is a great choice.

If you prefer traditional steel bar systems or need stronger sway control, a 4-point or Hensley hitch might be better.

My Verdict

The Andersen Hitches 3394 is a modern, lightweight alternative to traditional hitches, but if you need the absolute best sway control, a 4-point system or Hensley hitch may be the better choice.

Pros

  • Lightweight (under 60 lbs), easier to handle than most hitches
  • Quiet operation, no metal-on-metal friction
  • Simple installation with fewer heavy components
  • High weight capacity (16,000 lbs GTW)

Cons

  • Sway control isn’t as strong as some 4-point hitches
  • More expensive than mid-range options
  • Chain system feels different from traditional steel bar designs

Buy This If You:

  • Want a lightweight, easy-to-handle hitch
  • Prefer a quieter system with no grinding metal
  • Have a heavy trailer and need up to 16,000 lbs GTW

Don’t Buy This If You:

  • Want the strongest sway control available
  • Prefer a traditional round or trunnion bar hitch
  • Need a budget-friendly option

 


11. Blue Ox BXW1000 SwayPro

Blue Ox BXW1000 SwayPro Weight Distribution Hitch - 1000lb Tounge...

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My Thoughts

The Blue Ox BXW1000 SwayPro is a premium weight distribution hitch rated for 10,000 lbs GTW and 1,000 lbs TW.

It stands out with its proactive sway prevention, which uses tension in the spring bars to keep the trailer centered rather than relying on friction-based sway control. This makes it quieter than traditional 4-point systems while still offering excellent stability.

One of the best things about this hitch is that it allows full maneuverability, so you don’t need to disconnect anything when reversing. Installation is simple, thanks to the clamp-on brackets that eliminate the need for drilling.

However, it’s more expensive than mid-range options, and while the sway control is effective, it doesn’t react as strongly as some friction-based systems in extreme conditions.

If you want a quiet, premium hitch with built-in sway control that doesn’t rely on metal grinding, this is a great choice.

If you need the absolute strongest sway control, a 4-point system like Equal-i-zer or a Hensley-style hitch may be the better option.

My Verdict

The Blue Ox BXW1000 SwayPro is one of the quietest premium hitches on the market, but if you need the absolute best sway control in extreme conditions, a 4-point system or Hensley hitch may be a better choice.

Pros

  • Quiet operation, no metal-on-metal grinding
  • Integrated sway prevention that doesn’t require friction
  • No need to disconnect sway control when reversing
  • Clamp-on brackets for easy installation

Cons

  • More expensive than mid-range options
  • Sway control isn’t as aggressive as 4-point friction systems
  • Not ideal for extremely heavy trailers over 10,000 lbs

Buy This If You:

  • Want a quieter hitch without friction-based sway control
  • Need easy installation with clamp-on brackets
  • Want smooth, built-in sway prevention that doesn’t require disconnection

Don’t Buy This If You:

  • Need the strongest sway control available
  • Have a heavier trailer that exceeds 10,000 lbs
  • Want a budget-friendly option

12. 3P Jim Hensley Hitch

ProPride Hitch ProPride 3P Jim Hensley Hitch for Sway Elimination and...

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My Thoughts

The ProPride 3P Hitch is the most advanced weight distribution and sway control hitch on the market.

Designed by Jim Hensley, it eliminates sway entirely by moving the trailer’s pivot point to the rear axle of the tow vehicle, preventing the side-to-side movement that causes sway.

Unlike traditional friction-based sway control, this system prevents sway rather than correcting it.

With a 14,000 lbs GTW and 1,400 lbs TW capacity, it’s built for serious haulers who want the best possible stability.

Installation is more complex than standard hitches, and at nearly 200 lbs, it’s heavier than most. However, once set up, it’s one of the easiest hitches to hook up and use.

If you want the absolute best sway elimination technology and tow a heavy travel trailer, this is the gold standard.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly or lightweight option, this isn’t it.

My Verdict

The ProPride 3P Hitch is the gold standard for sway elimination, but if you don’t need the absolute best, a 4-point or premium hitch may be enough.

Pros

  • Completely eliminates sway instead of just reducing it
  • No need for friction bars or additional sway control
  • Once installed, it’s easy to hook up and tow
  • Designed for maximum stability in all conditions

Cons

  • More expensive than any other hitch
  • Heavy at nearly 200 lbs
  • Installation takes longer than traditional systems

Buy This If You:

  • Want the best sway elimination technology available
  • Tow frequently and need maximum stability
  • Have a large travel trailer and want zero sway

Don’t Buy This If You:

  • Need a budget-friendly weight distribution hitch
  • Prefer a lighter, easier-to-handle hitch
  • Tow occasionally and don’t need extreme sway control

Conclusion & My Weight Distribution With Sway Control Recommendations

No matter the size of your travel trailer, a weight distribution hitch with sway control is highly recommended—and for larger trailers, it’s often required.

An equalizer hitch improves towing by evenly distributing weight across axles, reducing stress on your tow vehicle’s rear suspension. Sway control is just as important, especially when the wind picks up. Even with a smaller trailer, you’ll feel the difference.

This review covers several options, but I prefer spring bar hitches over chain-style ones for better sway control and hassle-free reversing. That said, the right choice depends on your needs.

Here are my recommendations.

  • My Choice: Equal-i-zer 4-point Sway Control Hitch – It offers strong integrated sway control, is easy to install, and works well for mid to heavy trailers. Unlike cheaper options, there’s no separate sway bar to remove when reversing, making it more convenient. If you tow frequently and need reliable sway control, this is the best all-around hitch.
  • Best for Budget Buyers: Fastway e2 94-00-0800 – It’s affordable, easy to install, and includes basic sway control. It’s not as strong as 4-point or premium hitches, but if you tow occasionally and have a lighter trailer (under 8,000 lbs GTW), it does the job without breaking the bank.
  • Best Premium: 3P Jim Hensley Hitch – This is the gold standard in sway elimination. Instead of reducing sway like other hitches, it prevents it entirely. If you tow a large travel trailer and want zero sway, this is the best option—but it’s expensive and heavy, so only serious haulers need to consider it.
  • Best Lighweight & Quiet: Andersen HITCHES 3394 – Unlike traditional steel bar hitches, it uses chains and spring tension to control sway, making it lighter (under 60 lbs) and quieter than most. If you want an easier-to-handle hitch that still provides good sway control, this is a great alternative to traditional friction-based systems.

These four cover different needs—from budget-friendly towing to premium sway elimination. If you need help choosing based on your specific trailer, let me know!

airstream travel trailer being towed using a weight distribution hitch with sway control
Airstream travel trailer being towed using a weight distribution hitch with sway control

FAQ: Weight Distribution and Sway Control

What does weight distribution do?

A weight distribution hitch evens out the load across all axles using spring bars attached by chains or steel tabs.

A standard hitch pushes down the rear of your tow vehicle, making the trailer lean forward, which affects steering, braking, and visibility.

Always check if your hitch or tow vehicle is rated for weight distribution before buying.

What is the difference between weight distribution and sway control?

Weight distribution spreads the load between the tow vehicle and trailer, while sway control reduces movement caused by wind, improper loading, or bar tension.

Most modern systems have built-in sway control using 2-point or 4-point friction resistance, keeping the trailer in line while allowing turns.

If your hitch doesn’t have built-in sway control, you can add a friction sway control bar, which uses tension to reduce movement but must be removed before reversing.

Some systems use dual-cam sway control, which self-centers the trailer for better stability in crosswinds.

Read this article for more information.

Weight distribution hitch with sway control on a truck and travel trailer
Tip: Lift trailer up using jack after hitching to make lifting the spring arms easier.

 

What is the difference between a 2-point and 4-point sway control system?

A 2-point system controls sway at the ends of the spring bars near the trailer, while a 4-point system adds sway control where the spring bars connect to the hitch, providing stronger stabilization.

What are the components of a weight distribution system?

There are five main components in most weight distribution systems:

  1. Trailer Hitch – Receiver on your tow vehicle.
  2. Shank – Slides into the hitch and allows height adjustment.
  3. Head Assembly – Holds the hitch ball and spring bars.
  4. Spring Bars – Transfer weight between the tow vehicle and trailer.
  5. Lift Brackets – Attach to the trailer frame and hold the spring bars.

Do I need a weight distribution hitch for my bumper pull or travel trailer?

You likely need one if:

  • Your trailer sways on the road.
  • Your tow vehicle and trailer are unlevel when hooked up.
  • You have trouble steering or stopping while towing.
  • Your GTW exceeds 50% of your tow vehicle’s GVWR.

How do I choose what sway control system to get? Gross trailer weight? Tongue weight?

Pick a hitch rated closest to your actual tongue weight (TW), which should be 10-15% of Gross Trailer Weight (GTW).

A hitch rated too high makes the ride stiff, while one too low won’t distribute weight properly.

Is backing a trailer with sway bars harder?

Yes, friction sway bars should be removed before reversing, but spring arms in weight distribution systems can stay attached.

by Jesse
Jesse has always had an interest in camping, technology, and the outdoors. Who knew that growing up in a small town in Sweden with endless forests and lakes would do that to you?

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