Trailer Weight Distribution vs. Sway Control: What You Need to Know
After towing trailers with different types of weight distribution, I’ve learned that weight distribution and sway control are not the same, even though they often work together.
Many weight distribution hitches include sway control, but a standalone sway bar does nothing to distribute weight.
This article breaks down what each term means and which hitch setup works best for bumper pull trailers and RVs.
Weight Distribution Hitches
A weight distribution hitch does exactly what the name suggests—distributes the trailer’s weight across the tow vehicle and trailer for better balance. This improves stability, reduces strain on the tow vehicle, and makes towing safer.
For heavier tongue-pull trailers, weight distribution hitches are often required by law. Most RV travel trailers also need one, regardless of weight.
How They Work
Hooking up a heavy trailer without weight distribution causes the back of the tow vehicle to sag and the front to lift.
This “squat” reduces steering control and is a major cause of trailer sway, which leads to accidents.
A weight distribution hitch fixes this by using steel arms that attach to the trailer’s tongue.
This shifts about 25% of the tongue weight forward to the tow vehicle’s front axle and another 25% to the trailer’s rear axle. The result is a more level setup with less sag.
It’s important to match the hitch rating to your trailer’s full tongue weight. A properly balanced setup reduces axle and bearing wear, improves handling, and makes towing much smoother.
For extra support, airbags can be added to lift the rear of the tow vehicle even more.
Different Types
There are several types of weight distribution hitches, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. Let’s look at the different types, and the advantages/disadvantages with each.
Chain-Style Weight Distribution Hitches
This type uses steel arms and chains, like the Curt Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch.
This version provides weight distribution only, while a model with sway control, like this one, is needed for both functions.
Advantages
This style is usually more affordable than other weight distribution hitches and operates more quietly while towing.
Disadvantages
To add sway control, a separate sway bar must be installed, which requires drilling into the trailer’s A-frame. The sway bar also needs to be disconnected when reversing.
Lifting the arms to secure the trailer can be physically demanding, though this handle helps make the process easier.
Integrated Sway Control Weight Distribution Hitches
This style eliminates chains and connects the steel arms directly to the trailer tongue using steel tabs, like the Equal-i-zer 4-point Sway Control Hitch.
Advantages
Installation is simple, and the built-in sway control provides excellent stability by forming a strong triangle shape.
Unlike chain-style hitches, there’s no need to drill into the trailer frame, and you can reverse without unhooking anything.
Disadvantages
The main drawback is the screeching noise from metal-on-metal contact when turning.
Like the chain-style hitch, the steel arms are heavy to lift, but a special handle helps with this.
Chain vs. Steel Tab (2-Point & 4-Point) Weight Distribution Hitches
Both styles are widely used and offer effective weight distribution. The main difference is in sway control.
The steel tab style provides slightly better sway control than the chain setup with a separate sway bar.
The biggest drawback for both is the weight of the steel arms, which must be lifted manually. A leverage bar is a useful tool to make this easier.
Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch: A New Approach
The Andersen Hitches No Sway Weight Distribution Hitch is a newer design gaining popularity for bumper-pull trailers.
Instead of heavy steel arms, it uses heavy-duty springs, a turning ball hitch, and two chains to distribute weight and reduce sway.
Advantages
This hitch eliminates the need for heavy lifting. Instead of manually raising steel arms, you simply turn a tension bolt with a socket wrench.
It’s also lightweight, quiet while towing, and doesn’t require unhooking before reversing.
Disadvantages
Since this design is still relatively new, it hasn’t been as widely tested over time as traditional weight distribution hitches.
ProPride P3 Hensley Hitch: The Ultimate Sway Control & Weight Distribution Hitch
The ProPride P3 Hensley Sway Elimination & Weight Distribution Hitch is hands down one of the most advanced bumper pull hitches out there.
Jim Hensley designed the original Hensley Arrow, then improved on it with the ProPride P3, which takes sway control and weight distribution to another level.
How It Works
Unlike standard hitches, the ProPride P3 ditches the ball mount completely. According to ProPride, the ball is where trailer sway starts, so they got rid of it.
Instead, a large coupler attaches to the trailer’s ball receiver.
This setup, combined with two heavy-duty arms, moves with the trailer’s natural motion to keep it centered without yanking the tow vehicle around.
The hitch also shifts the pivot point from the trailer’s tip to the tow vehicle’s rear axle. This makes a huge difference in stability.
Another bonus is the adjustable hitch bar, which extends the connection so you can actually open your tailgate while hitched—something most hitches don’t allow.
Weight Distribution System
With this setup, the weight distribution arms stay attached to the trailer. You don’t have to pry them off to unhitch.
Instead, built-in jacks raise and lower them with a socket wrench or drill, making adjustments way easier than traditional setups.
Why It’s Worth Considering
- Best sway control you can get
- No need to disconnect weight distribution arms when unhitching
- Easier hitching thanks to its side-to-side movement
- More space between the tow vehicle and trailer—lets you open the tailgate
What to Keep in Mind
- It’s heavy—almost 200 lbs, which adds to your trailer’s tongue weight
- More expensive than other hitches
If you’re serious about getting rid of sway and making towing as smooth as possible, the ProPride P3 is hard to beat.
I recommend checking out some videos to see it in action.
When Do I Need To Use A Weight Distribution Hitch?
Truck manufacturers actually require weight distribution hitches once a trailer reaches a certain weight compared to the tow vehicle.
- Half-ton trucks & SUVs – Required when towing 5,000 lbs or more
- Heavy-duty trucks (¾-ton & 1-ton) – Required for bumper pull trailers between 6,000–8,500 lbs
- RV travel trailers – Almost all require a weight distribution hitch, regardless of weight
- Small trailers – Even lightweight single-axle trailers like the 500 lb Forest River R-Pod benefit from weight distribution with sway control
A weight distribution hitch isn’t just about meeting requirements—it makes towing safer and more stable.
Even if your trailer is under the weight limit, using one is always a good idea.
One thing that makes it easier to use most weight distribution hitches is electric trailer jacks. Check out my article on the best options here.
What Is Sway Control?
When towing a bumper pull trailer, the single ball hitch allows it to pivot freely for turns.
The problem is, there’s nothing stopping it from swaying side to side.
If the back end starts swinging, it can be dangerous—severe sway can even cause a trailer to flip. That’s why sway control is so important.
How Sway Bars & Hitches Work
Trailer sway can be caused by wind, road conditions, speed, tire pressure, tongue weight, axle count, and cargo placement.
A sway control bar or hitch uses friction to keep the trailer centered.
If it starts to sway, the friction acts like a brake, preventing it from turning on its own.
Preventing Trailer Sway
Proper loading and cautious driving go a long way in reducing trailer sway. Here are the key factors to keep in mind for a safer, more stable tow.
- Load heavier cargo toward the front of the trailer
- Slow down in high winds
- Use a sway control hitch or bar for added stability
Even with sway control, trailer sway can still happen. If you feel it start, do not brake—instead, take your foot off the gas and slow down gradually.
For a full guide on what causes trailer sway and how to handle it, check out this post.
Sway Control Bars: A Simple Way to Reduce Trailer Sway
A sway control bar is an affordable way to help keep a trailer stable, especially for single-axle trailers.
You can use one without a weight distribution hitch, but if weight distribution is required, sway control should always be included.
How Sway Control Bars Work
Sway control bars like the EAZ LIFT Screw-On Sway Control bolt onto the trailer’s tongue near the ball hitch coupler.
After hitching up, the bar attaches to a small ball next to the tow vehicle’s main hitch ball. Tightening the sway bar creates friction, reducing side-to-side movement.
Advantages
One of the biggest advantages of sway control bars is that they are affordable and easy to install.
They provide additional stability, especially for single-axle trailers, and can be used with or without a weight distribution hitch.
Disadvantages
The downside is that they need to be disconnected before reversing, which can be inconvenient.
They are not as effective as weight distribution hitches with built-in sway control, which provide better overall stability.
Weight Distribution Hitches with Built-In Sway Control
For those who don’t want to drill into the trailer frame or deal with separate sway bars, weight distribution hitches with integrated sway control are a great option.
The Equal-i-zer 4-point Sway Control Hitch uses friction from the steel arms rubbing against steel tabs.
The trailer’s tongue weight presses down, making it highly effective, though it can be noisy.
Another option is the Anderson Hitches No Sway Weight Distribution Hitch (Click to view on Amazon), which uses springs to control side-to-side motion while still allowing full turning and backing.
Last but not least, there is the ProPride P3 Hensley Sway Elimination & Weight Distribution Hitch.
It’s the most advanced and effective sway control system available, completely eliminating trailer sway by shifting the pivot point, but it’s also the most complex and heaviest option.
If you would like to see more options, check out this article that covers more products.
When Do I Need To Use Sway Control?
Every bumper pull trailer, no matter the size, should have some form of sway control.
Whether it’s a simple sway bar or a full weight distribution hitch with built-in sway control, adding one improves stability and safety on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions About Weight Distribution & Sway Control
Do 5th-Wheels Need Weight Distribution and Sway Control?
One of the best things about 5th-wheels and gooseneck trailers is how smooth they tow.
Since the trailer weight sits over the truck’s center, it’s evenly distributed between both axles, reducing sway and improving control.
That said, short-bed trucks need a sliding 5th-wheel hitch.
It keeps the weight centered while towing but slides back when reversing, giving more clearance for tight turns.
Check out all the best 5th-wheel hitches for all styles of truck beds in this article here.
What Should I Do If My Trailer Starts to Sway?
Even with precautions, trailer sway can happen at any speed. Knowing how to handle it is critical.
I’ve written a detailed guide on the five things you need to do when a trailer starts swaying—check it out here.
Do Chain-Style Weight Distribution Hitches Always Need a Sway Bar?
Most weight distribution hitches that use chains need a separate sway bar to create friction and keep the trailer centered.
One exception is the Anderson Hitches No Sway Weight Distribution Hitch (click to view on Amazon), which is one of the few chain-style hitches that controls sway and distributes weight.
How Can I Make It Easier to Lift the Steel Arms on My Hitch?
Lifting the arms or chains on a weight distribution hitch can be a struggle, even with a lever handle.
A simple trick is to use the trailer’s tongue jack to lift the trailer a few inches after hitching up.
This levels everything out, making it much easier to lock the arms in place. Once set, lower the jack, and you’re ready to tow.
Can I Back Up with a Weight Distribution Hitch On?
Most weight distribution hitches allow for backing up, but if you’re using a sway control bar, it should be disengaged before reversing, especially in tight spaces.
What Size Weight Distribution Hitch Do I Need?
Choose a hitch rated for more weight than your trailer’s maximum capacity.
I cover this in more detail in the FAQ section of my guide on the best weight distribution hitches.
What Is Trailer Stability Assist (TSA)?
Some vehicles have a built-in trailer stability assist system that detects sway and applies brakes automatically.
It’s useful for light trailers, but for heavier loads, a sway control bar or weight distribution hitch is still necessary.
Even though I hook up my EAZ round arm the same on each side (same number of links) one arm is tighter than the other. They are several years old. Perhaps one has become soft?
Hi Tom,
I’ve noticed that sometimes with my own weight distribution hitch. Normally it happens when the trailer or the truck is unlevel, which isn’t a big deal because it levels out when I start driving down the road.
I would compare the two arms next to each other. The angles of each arm should be the same. If one is slightly more bent than the other that could also explain the uneven tightness.
If the arms look the same I would take the trailer to a level area like a parking lot and try loading the arms again there. If you’re still having the same issue the hitch may have been installed wrong of you may have something causing your trailer to sit unevenly like a broken leaf spring or a slightly deflated tire.
Hope this helped and you are able to figure out what is going on with your hitch.
I have a Ford F-150 that has a feature where you can switch on anti-sway control. I bought 30’ RV (7800# dry weight) yesterday and the dealer installed sway control bar (the kind without chains). They told me to NOT enable the truck anti sway feature because the two would “fight each other. Well, it was scary driving home at 65 mph due to the sway. And it was not windy. Any thoughts?
Hi Randy,
I’m not an expert on Ford towing systems but here are my thoughts on the situation.
The most important thing when towing heavy travel trailers is weight distribution. Did the dealer install a weight distributions hitch with built-in sway control or just one of those sway control bars with no weight distribution? If the hitch isn’t distributing the weight that would explain the scary drive home and you should get a weight-distribution hitch before towing again.
As for the anti-sway feature, it seems like it’s a bit of a mixed bag when it comes to information about turning it off or keeping it on when towing with an anti-sway hitch. It doesn’t say in the F-150 manual if you should turn it off or not and it looks like the only source saying you should turn it off when using an anti-sway hitch is Anderson hitches and it’s debatable whether they really know for sure. I honestly don’t see how they would be fighting each other because the anti-sway system in Ford trucks is to try and stop trailer sway when it starts to happen and an anti-sway bar is supposed to help stop the sway from happening in the first place. They both should be able to work together not against each other.
If you are using a weight-distribution hitch with sway control I would take the trailer for a drive with the anti-sway system on to see how it handles, it may be just fine and you will have the extra safety of the anti-sway system.
Another problem could also be the weight of the truck vs the weight of the trailer. New Ford F-150’s weight at most around 5,600 lbs which is a lot less than the dry weight of your new travel trailer. When the towing vehicle is that much lighter than the travel trailer it has less control than a heavier towing vehicle would have. Because of this, you may need to drive a little slower to feel more in control when towing. This of course is just my option for towing large travel trailers. I myself own a 32 foot travel trailer that weighs around 9,000 lbs fully loaded that I tow with a truck that is 8,000 fully loaded. Even with a truck that is just 1,000 lbs lighter than the trailer I sometimes feel like I’m being thrown around on certain roads and have to drive slower.
I hope some of this information was helpful to you. If you have any more questions about the hitch feel free to ask. I’m curious to know if towing with the Ford anti-sway system on will make any difference, it seems like it’s a relatively new thing to the towing world and something a lot of people are asking questions about.
I have a 2018 Audi Q5. The owners manual states “never mount a ‘weight-distributing’ or ‘load balancing’ trailer coupler as the trailer hitch. The vehicle was not designed for these types of trailer hitches. The trailer hitch can malfunction and the trailer can break off from the vehicle.’
I am in the processs of purchasing a new lightweight aerodynamic travel trailer – 1800 pounds (empty), my Q5 is rated for 4400 pounds and a tongue weight of 440 pounds. The vendor is insisting I install a weight distribution system on my vehicle.
I have pulled a travel trailer in the past (pop up) that was as heavy and I had no problems with sway. I would prefer to continue to use my current hitch. I have an electric brake controller.
What would you suggest?
The
Hi Deborah,
I would follow the Audi owner’s manual and not get a weight distribution hitch. For a trailer that’s that lightweight, it’s not really necessary, although it would be nice to have in certain situations like towing in high winds.
You should be fine to tow without a weight distribution hitch, just make sure you load your trailer with around 15% of the weight in the front to help keep things stable on the road.
This is just my opinion though, I’m not a professional but I do know people who tow smaller lightweight travel trailers without weight distribution hitches and they do just fine.
I have as a tow vehicle a 2010 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD six speed automatic. The owners manual says it has a 3300 lb. max trailer weight, and most annoying and confusing, a 165 lb. max tongue weight!!! I tow a Jayco Hummingbird 17FD with a dry weight of 2941 lb. and a gross trailer weight of 3750 lb. In Europe the same Volvos are rated for 2000kg, or 4400 lb. max trailer weight and there is no max tongue weight. These are the very same cars in Europe and the USA. What is the difference here? Does the US regulate trailer weights differently? How can I tow a 3300 lb. trailer with only a 5% tongue weight? What effect does my Rees Pro Series w-d hitch and anti0-sway device on the tongue weight? So far, the Reese works just fine.
I am confused as to whether I am supposed to install BOTH a driver and passenger side sway bar with my EAZ Lift WD hitch. Why do they offer both sides if only one side is needed (virtually every installation video shows a passenger side install only).
Thanks!
Hi Jim,
Some people do like to use two friction bars with a weight distribution hitch, but in most cases, it’s not necessary. You should be fine with just one, and if you are still experiencing a little sway I would try reloading the trailer better before adding another friction bar.
What about the pro pride and Hensley hitch. I have the pro pride and have no problems in any condition. Have towed in 30 mph cross winds with no sway problem. Yes you can feel the wind but it’s manageable.
Hi Roger,
Thanks for the suggestion! Always great to hear about other kinds of hitches, and the ProPride looks awesome. I’ll add it to the post.
I’m usying a 1/4 inch of nylon pad on my no chain distributer weight to eliminate the squwish.
Sounds like a great idea!