Reese Weight Distribution System w Shank - Trunnion Bar - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW
(66 reviews)
Price: $612.98
In Stock
Reese Weight Distribution System w Shank - Trunnion Bar - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW
Item # RP66542
Retail:$891.89
Our Price: $612.98
You Save: $278.91
In Stock
Thank you! Your comment has been submitted successfully. You should be able to view your question/comment here within a few days.
Error submitting comment. Please try again momentarily.
- All Info
- Reviews (66)
- Q & A (0)
- Photos
Reese Weight Distribution Hitch - RP66542
- 1000 lbs
- 1100 lbs
- 700 lbs
- 800 lbs
- 900 lbs
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- WD Only
- Reese
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
High-performance system is designed to offer the best in weight distribution with an easy-to-adjust, forged head; a raised ball platform; and flexible, powder coated steel, trunnion spring bars. Adjustable shank included. Hitch ball sold separately.
Features:
- Evenly distributes weight over axles of tow vehicle and trailer for stability and control
- Creates a more level ride for both tow vehicle and trailer
- Trunnion spring bars are hot rolled and tapered for superior strength and flexibility
- Bars flex appropriately over uneven terrain for a controlled, even ride
- Curved ends are designed for use with dual-cam sway control (RP26002 - sold separately)
- Adjustable spring-bar tension - just switch links in lift chains to fine-tune
- Desired tilt is easily achieved with serrated-washer design - no more piling on washer after washer
- Forged, raised ball platform on head eliminates need for raised hitch ball
- Solid steel shank has corrosion-resistant powder coat
- System includes head assembly, adjustable shank, lift brackets, trunnion spring bars, lift chains, pin and clip, and all necessary hardware
- Hitch ball sold separately - requires 1-1/4" diameter shank
Specs:
- Tongue weight: 600 lbs - 1,200 lbs
- Gross towing weight: 12,000 lbs
- Fits: 2" x 2" trailer hitch receivers rated for use with weight-distribution systems
- Lift-bracket positioning: mount about 30" back from hitch ball
- Requires approximately 5-1/2" of space along trailer frame
- Optional mounts (sold separately) that take up less space on a trailer frame are available
- Will not fit trailer frames wider than 2-1/2"
- Requires approximately 5-1/2" of space along trailer frame
- Shank length: 14" from center of hitch pin hole to center of ball hole
- Total height adjustment along shank: 5-1/4"
- Maximum rise: 6-1/2" from top of hitch receiver opening
- Maximum drop: 1-1/4" from top of hitch receiver opening
- Limited lifetime warranty
| Included w/ RP66542 | Required - Sold Separately | Optional Add-Ons |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
Create a stable ride for your tow vehicle and trailer with a weight-distribution hitch. Adding spring bars to your towing system applies leverage, which transfers the load that is pushing down on the rear of your vehicle to all the axles on both your tow vehicle and your trailer, resulting in an even distribution of weight throughout. The result is a smooth, level ride, as well as the ability to tow the maximum capacity of your hitch.
Selecting a Weight-Distribution System
The tongue weight rating is the most important factor in determining which size weight-distribution system you should use. If the bars of the system you choose are rated too high for your setup, they will create a rigid ride, which can result in a bouncing trailer. If, on the other hand, the bars are not rated high enough, the system will be unable to properly distribute the weight, rendering it virtually useless.
To determine the proper weight rating for a weight-distribution system, you must first determine your trailer's tongue weight. Then add to that the weight of the cargo behind the rear axle of your tow vehicle. These two measurements make up the tongue weight rating for a weight-distribution system.
Unique Features of Reese Trunnion-Bar Weight Distribution
The easy-to-use, serrated washers on the Reese system make adjusting the tilt of the weight-distribution head a snap. This is a huge improvement over the standard pin-and-washer method, which involves piling washers - one on top of another - onto a difficult-to-access pin. The serrated-washer system lets you easily loosen, adjust and tighten a single washer and nut on either side of the head for simple, secure positioning.
The trunnion spring bars of this system slide into the weight-distribution head for quick, easy installation. With a tapered design and hot rolled steel construction, these bars offer superior flex, ensuring a smooth, controlled ride for both your tow vehicle and your trailer. In addition, these specially designed bars have rounded, hooked ends, making them the only kind of spring bars that can function with Reese's active-style, dual-cam sway control (sold separately).
66542 Reese Trunnion Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with Hitch Bar
Installation Details
California residents: click here
Customer Satisfaction Score:
97% were satisfied with this product
3% of customers were not satisfied
- Wrong item was ordered
Customer Reviews
Reese Weight Distribution System w Shank - Trunnion Bar - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW - RP66542
Average Customer Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars (66 Customer Reviews)
High-performance system is designed to offer the best in weight distribution with an easy-to-adjust, forged head; a raised ball platform; and flexible, powder coated steel, trunnion spring bars. Adjustable shank included. Hitch ball sold separately.by: James08/02/2023
This worked great. I gained about 2 1/2 inches on the rear lift , both the front and rear wheel well are at 36 1/2 off the ground . what a difference . Trailer is a little higher then level, not much, but with a quick adjustment that can be rectified. Delivery was on time and working with Briana was a pleasure. I emailed all the specs and the correct unit was recommended to me which is the one I purchased.
by: Larry08/05/2020
Excellent customer service, Steve was knowledgeable and courteous. Fast delivery. Great quality. Adjustable chains work well for varying loads on my 10K car hauler.
by: Bob N.08/17/2013
Excellent delivery speed, unfortunately we had to wait until last week to have the trailer delivered. Used the hitch 3 times and are very pleased with the ease of installation. Enjoyed the heavy duty bar to over center the distribution bar. Used the same trick I used on previous hitches - place a bicycle handlebar grip on one end of the bar - much more comfortable. First time with trunnion bars - I'll never go back to the bent bar type with the snap pins and flexible clips - I've had to replace them several times - a real pain to drill out the rivets and find new ones. Very satisfied with hitch. Pulling a 24' Outdoor RV - "Timber Ridge" - 8000 GVW with 900 lb tongue weight with a Ford F250 Diesel. Pulls like a dream!
by: Steve12/13/2014
I am very happy with the Reese Weight Distribution System that
I purchased from E-Trailer.
Even more... I got exceptional customer serviced from the staff and Technical Experts that I contracted.
I have included some installation tips in the attachments & a photo of what it is all about!
by: ImagineTravelsGD10/21/2020
After our third trip with this hitch it has performed great. This is almost exactly the same hitch that we have had for over 20 years so hopefully we will get 20 plus out of this one. Our only dissatisfaction is that the hold pins are very difficult to insert. As always the service of etrailer has been terrific.
Kimble W.
10/22/2021
After a year of use its still performing great.
by: Mark08/17/2021
One of the nuts supplied to attach chain to trunion bar was not self locking. Otherwise this was bought because I have next larger version for a different trailer and have been pleased with it. The service was great in that the ball I ordered was out of stock and they notified me immediately and suggested an alternative ball that met my needs.
Mark
8/19/2022
Works well. I like the easy adjustability of the chains for different loads as the trailer is used for many different items.
by: Donald09/26/2021
Super hitch easy to set up and install. Easy and very informative instructions. Hooked up took a test drive worked so well I thought this can’t be true. Made an adjustment on the chain link and OMG what a big difference, not for the good though. Went back to the instructed set up perfect. Love it.
by: mark o06/02/2016
We ordered the the weight distribution kit and hitch for a new camper on May 20th. We were going camping on the 26th of may and still had not received confirmation of shipping on the 23rd. My wife called and spoke to Sandy who advised that the online order dept was very backlogged but that she would check into getting it shipped right out for us. We received the hitch on the 25th and were able to get it hooked up and ready to go for the memorial weekend camping trip. Excellent product but more importantly to us was the above and beyond customer service we received.
Mark O.
6/21/2017
Great product!!!Very well built.
by: Scott in AZ09/14/2016
Another great Reese Product.
Installed on a Tundra towing a Flagstaff Tent Trailer with a toy deck. I was having problems with the load sinking my truck and trailer. With the distribution system installed it is now towing very nicely. I had to increase the length of the chain by 1 link due to the way that the hitch on the trailer was built. I would buy and use another one with NO hesitation.
by: Chris V08/08/2017
The product, for how much steel it consists of came to my front door step completely unscathed. The packaging was flawless. After the cursory inspection, I began laying out the parts readying myself for assembly. The instructions were thoughtfully crafted and easy to follow.
Once mounted and setup, I took the trailer for a test pull. My trailer is a 26' enclosed car hauler. I put my wife's car in the trailer (her car is relatively small and probably only ways 2500 lbs give or take) and pulled 5 miles of curvy roads and about 10 miles of freeway. The system is confidence inspiring! I would whole-heartily recommend this product. It arrived quickly mounted easily and inspires confidence. What more could you ask for?
by: Jeff11/10/2017
The hitch is plenty heavy duty and worth the money. Makes a big difference when driving with a heavier trailer when compared to a conventional hitch.
Delivery of the hitch was fast too!!
by: Glen08/27/2015
Great product instructions easy to follow, easy to install. It was a backordered product but came in a week earlier that expected. Packaged well though box was ripped in during shipping, watch out for the shim (optional shim Kit) that comes with the kit, almost threw it out was stuck loose in the bottom of the box.
by: Cliff A.07/28/2016
Appears to be good quality and easy to install - just need some time and don't rush the process. Have only used it once on a short trip and seems to be good. I noticed that the ride seems stiffer than with the curve bar type that I had prior - the bars are bigger and at a different point and do not appear to flex much. Shipping was faster than I expected for a heavier package. I will know how it performs after taking a longer trip.
by: Jay M04/04/2015
purchased this to replace my old load leveler. when I bought a new bunkhouse w/ a tipout the old 8000# wouldn't handle it. it was easy to put together and the hook is a breeze. the price was excellent and delivery was very quick.
by: Dave 12/26/2020
Very heavy-duty. Superior quality. etrailer's customer service is outstanding! They agreed to price match, shipped immediately, great communication, excellent follow-up. Love doing business with this company.
by: Dominick 02/02/2022
Great product and quick delivery. I had the same exact hitch for my travel trailer and it served us well.
by: Susan 09/13/2019
We're first time horse trailer owners and took the recommendation of EquiSpirit as to where to purchase the necessary equipment. We have been very satisfied with your service, your speedy delivery and no delivery charge on the heavy items.
by: Ben G.03/20/2018
This has made hauling our trailer a lot easier.
The trailer is a 24 ft enclosed, used mainly for racing.
by: Dave R.09/16/2013
Excellent quality, forged not cast. Quick shipping, knowledgeable sales staff. I would highly recommend e trailer.
by: Kim W.10/11/2012
I ordered a Reese Weight Distribution Hitch from etrailer and it was shipped the same day. It arrived in great shape, I'm very satisfied with my purchase. The online price at etrailer was substantially less than what it would of cost locally.
by: Cory Mac01/15/2013
Product appears to be of top quality and is very well built. I am hoping that it will shift more of the weight to the front of the truck and level it out. I will find out this spring when the towing season starts.
by: Merle01/24/2018
Very fast service and its just what I was looking for, Thank You
Merle
1/24/2019
Holds a load very well and keeps my truck on track going down the road!
by: Rance P.03/16/2011
Very fast shipping and excellent product. I will definitely do business with etrailer.com again. Thanks.
by: Roger D03/23/2017
Exactly what I needed. Good quality , everything was included with complete instructions to install.
by: Kenneth05/19/2018
I bought this to use with my Jayco Jayflight 21QB, works great! Easy to hook up.
25
66
Show More Reviews
See what our Experts say about this Reese Weight Distribution Hitch
- How to Pick Out a Weight Distribution System for a 2012 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing a 7,000 lb CamperThe best way to pick out a weight distribution system is to based on the loaded tongue weight of your setup when it is fully loaded and ready to go. I would recommend loading your trailer up camper like you are going on a trip and then determining the tongue weight. Check out the FAQ article I attached that details how to do this. Most likely the Reese Weight Distribution System # RP66542 would work since it has a tongue weight range that should work well with your setup. I attached an...
view full answer... - Weight Distribution Setup Final Measurements RecommendationSince they say to get the final measurements to settle evenly within about a 1/2 inch I would say you are pretty close but could stand to reduce the number of links between the hook and spring bar. I would try taking one more link out and see where that puts you. I attached an FAQ article on weight distribution systems for you to check out also.
view full answer... - Weight Distribution System for Towing 7,000 lb TrailerWhen picking out a weight distribution system you'd want to aim for the weight range needed for how your trailer is loaded to the heaviest you'll be at. I recommend a system with a wide range like the Reese Weight Distribution System part # RP66542 which has a range of 600-1,200 lbs which would be ideal for you since you'll have a few different tongue weights depending on how you load it.
view full answer... - Should Weight Distribution Spring Bar Chains be Tight When the System is InstalledOn a weight distribution system that has spring bars hanging from chains, once you engage the spring bars and lower the jack the chains will be tight. It does sound like some adjustments need to be made though since you should have about 5 chain links from the hanger to the spring bar. You should be able to back up without remove the bars on a system like # RP66542 so it does sound like it is either a little too tight and needs to be adjusted or the system is not rated properly for the...
view full answer... - What is the Torque Rating for the Bolts on the Head of Reese Trunnion Bar Weight Distribution 66542The Reese weight distribution system # RP66542 uses 3/4 inch bolts to hold the head to the shank. The instructions, linked for reference, state the torque rating. The instructions that are linked are always going to be the most updated version so even if the manufacturer changes something in them you will still be able to see the latest version using that link. Torque specs are currently on page 2 of the linked instructions.
view full answer... - How to Pick out a Weight Distribution System for a 2008 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing a 35 ft Travel TrailerThe most reliable way to get towing capacities on a vehicle is to check the owners manual. There can be a lot of contradictory information floating around the internet so I would recommend you either check your owners manual or contact a Dodge dealer. The best way to pick out a weight distribution system is to base it off of the loaded tongue weight of a setup. Once you know that you can pick out a system that will work the best for you. You should note that any weight from cargo behind...
view full answer... - What Reese Weight Distribution System is Compatible with Dual Cam Sway ControlIf the trunnion weight distribution system has spring bars with curved ends like the Reese system part # RP66542 has then yes you can use the part # RP26002 with it. I attached a picture of what the spring bar ends need to look like.
view full answer...
- Weight Distribution Recommendation for 2004 Chevy Silverado 2500 Towing 8,000 Pound Open Car TrailerTypically, you would want to choose a weight distribution system based on the loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of your trailer. Since your trailer will be carrying various types of cargo and have a different tongue weight nearly every time it is loaded, you will want to choose a system that has a large range and that can be adjusted to fit the load each time. Based on the empty and loaded weights of the trailer you provided, it is possible that the tongue weight will range from 200...
view full answer... - Is a GMC Sierra 2500 HD a 3/4 or 1 Ton TruckGreat question! Ford, GM and Ram use a similar nomenclature for their full-size trucks. • For GM and Ram, 1500 is a 1/2 ton, 2500 is a 3/4 ton and 3500 is a 1 ton. • For Ford trucks, the F-150 is a 1/2 ton, the F-250 is a 3/4 ton and the F-350 is a 1 ton truck. You have a 3/4 ton truck.
view full answer... - Can a Jeep Commander Tow a 5500 lb Travel TrailerIf the weight of the fully loaded trailer (including water and propane tanks) is below the manufacturers tow rating of the vehicle, the Commander will tow the trailer with no problems. If your Commander is not already equipped with a transmission cooler, I would recommend one. If you could respond with the model year of your Commander, I would be happy to recommend a specific cooler. Since the trailer weighs more than half the weight of the Commander, a Weight Distribution System is recommended....
view full answer... - Can a Weight Distribution System Install onto a Standard Ball MountThe head of a weight distribution system will need to bolt to a weight distribution shank. It would have no way of installing to a standard ball mount. The reason we sell some systems without shanks is for people who need a shank with more drop than the standard shank that comes with the systems, this way they can pick out the amount of rise/drop they need. Since you do not have a shank you will need one to install a WD system. I attached a page that has all of the weight distribution...
view full answer... - Weight Distribution Recommendation for a 1998 Dodge Ram 2500 Towing a 32 foot Cavalier TrailerThe best way to select a weight distribution system for towing your 32 foot Cavalier travel trailer with your 1998 Dodge Ram 3/4 ton truck is to weigh the trailer when it is fully loaded and ready to tow. When weighing the trailer you will need to determine the gross trailer weight and the gross tongue weight, and add the weight of anything you may need to load behind the rear axle in the bed of your Ram to the tongue weight. Armed with this information you can select a weight distribution...
view full answer... - How to Add Sway Control to the Reese Weight Distribution SystemIn order to add a sway control bar to the Reese Weight Distribution System w Shank - Trunnion Bar - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW # RP66542 you are going to want to use the Reese Dual Cam High-Performance Sway Control for Steel Trailer Frames # RP26002. If your trailer is over 26' or you are experiencing a lot of sway then you will want to add two of them, one to each side. This kit comes with everything you need to attach the bar to both your trailer and weight distribution system.
view full answer... - Weight Distribution System Recommendation for 6,500 lb Trailer with 8 inch Tall Frame ChannelsSince your frame channels are taller than 6 inches you'd need to use a weight distribution system like the Reese # RP66542 that has frame clamps that attach to the top of the frame and does not need to attach around the entire frame channel. This also won't damage the paint of your trailer frame and has a tongue weight range that would work well with a trailer that weighs between 6,000 and 6,500 lbs.
view full answer... - Weight Distribution System that is Used in the Dual Cam Sway Control Install VideoLooks like you checked out the Dual Cam Sway Control kit part # RP26002 install video. This video is attached to the right. While the exact part number that is used in the video is no longer available the part # RP66542 is very similar. It has the same capacities, same brand, and the difference is the style of spring bar. The best way to pick out a weight distribution system is to base it off of the loaded tongue weight of the setup when it is loaded and ready to tow, this figure also...
view full answer... - Can 2019 Ram 1500 Tow Trailer that Weighs 6,100 lbI looked up the towing capacity of your 2019 Ram 1500 and based on it's very impressive capacities it would easily be able to tow a trailer that weighs 6,100 lbs. A weight distribution system like the part # RP66542 that you referenced wouldn't be a terrible idea though as it would help reduce suspension sag as well as improve handling and braking.
view full answer... - Installing a Reese WD System with Brackets on an I-Beam TrailerTo install a Reese Snap-Up Bracket, like part # 58392, on an I-Beam trailer you will not need to cut the frame but have an experienced welder add some extra metal where the bracket will sit on the trailer frame. This will simulate a regular trailer frame and will allow the Snap-Up bracket to be safely used. For example; the Reese Weight Distribution (WD) system # RP66542 uses brackets that require about 5-1/2" of trailer frame space and mount about 30" back from the hitch ball. Keep in...
view full answer... - Backing a Trailer With Weight Distribution SystemHere's the story about backing your trailer with a weight distribution system. If you're using a friction sway control like part # 83660, you should remove the sway control unless you're backing more or less in a straight line. If you're not using a friction sway control unit, it's okay to leave the bars in place while backing but keep in mind that the system, vehicle and the trailer can get damaged if the trailer jackknifes. If you're backing the trailer and cutting the wheels sharply,...
view full answer... - How Can You Tell if a 2015 Silverado Z71 has a Factory Brake Controller?This will indeed be a factory brake controller. The slide lever will be the manual override and the plus and minus buttons will set the level of braking for the trailer brakes. I included a picture of this from the owners manual as well. From what I could find out, this should work with both electric brakes and electric over hydraulic brakes as well. With all that being said, if the controller has never been used, or even if it has, it is a good idea to check to make sure it is functioning...
view full answer...
- Can Reese Weight Distribution Brackets be Bolted to a Trailer FrameYes, you can bolt on the weight distribution brackets from system # RP66542. They can also be welded on. If you do bolt them on you will need to provide your own hardware; grade 5 or better carriage bolts. Also one important tip I can offer is to make sure the brackets are in exactly the right place before drilling holes.
view full answer... - How to Determine the Towing Capacity of a 2019 Jeep Cherokee LimitedFrom what I could find out, the 2019 Jeep Cherokee is limited to 2,000 pounds towing. That being said, to confirm your max capacity, you can look at the inside door jamb of the driver door. There will be a sticker/label with all the capacities the vehicle can handle.
view full answer... - How Far Back on Trailer Frame Do Frame Brackets Mount in Reese Weight Distribution System RP66542On Reese Weight Distribution System # RP66542 the frame brackets will actually be back the furthest on the frame. Measured from the center of the trailer coupler ball cavity back along the frame to the edge of the bracket closest to the trailer body will be 32-1/4 inches. For a compatible ball for this system use # 19286.
view full answer... - Recommended Solution to Fight Sag on 2001 Ford Expedition with Timbren Springs Already InstalledWhile the Timbren suspension enhancement for your 2001 Ford Expedition does help fight sag, it looks like a typical Coachmen 252RBS has a GVWR of 7000-lbs or more; any time your trailer weighs more than 1/2 the curb weight of the vehicle, a weight distribution hitch is a good way to help ensure that the trailer's tongue weight is distributed more equally across the axles of the tow vehicle. From what it sounds like based off the weights you mentioned, the weight of the trailer isn't being...
view full answer... - Can a 2-1/2 Inch Weight Distribution Shank Be Used w/ Pro Series Weight Distribution SystemYou can indeed use a 2-1/2 inch shank with your existing Pro Series weight distribution system. I'd recommend the Reese # RP54976, as it's been tested with Reese and Pro Series Round Bar systems.
view full answer...
Do you have a question about this Weight Distribution Hitch?
Info for this part was:
Test Fit:
Joe V
Expert Research:
Mike L
Expert Research:
Michael H
Expert Research:
Jameson C
Expert Research:
Adam R
Expert Research:
Victoria B
Video by:
Zack K
Written by:
Lindsey S
Updated by:
Kathleen M
Updated by:
Laura H
Updated by:
Wilson B
Updated by:
Alexander C
Updated by:
Amanda M
Updated by:
Mike S
Updated by:
Isabelle B
Video Edited:
Dustin K
Installed by:
Cole B
Installed by:
Hayden R
At etrailer.com we provide the best information available about the products we sell. We take the quality of our information seriously so that you can get the right part the first time. Let us know if anything is missing or if you have any questions.
Product Experts Available Now!
Call 1-800-940-8924
Larry
9/7/2021
Hitch is working great on my 10,000 lb. car hauler. Have hauled loads ranging from a tractor, loader, and tiller to an SUV with no issues.