Weight Distribution Hitch Curt 17302 Product Review

LONG TRUNNION BAR WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION HITCH (8K - 10K LBS., 30-5/8" BARS) #17302

Note: CURT no longer lists a 17301. The current long trunnion bar hitch in this family is the 17302, and this review has been updated to match it. Ratings and features below are verified against CURT's own product page for the 17302.

A weight distribution hitch is not a trailer jack. It is a hitch system that uses spring bars to take part of the trailer's tongue weight off the back of the tow vehicle and spread it forward onto the tow vehicle's front axle and back onto the trailer's axles. That is what levels the truck and trailer back out and keeps the steering and braking feeling normal.

Below we look at how the CURT 17302 is built, what it is rated for, and where it fits.

Whether you pull a travel trailer, a horse trailer, or a heavy tag-along, a weight distribution hitch is what keeps the back of the tow vehicle from squatting under the tongue.

Product Description

The Long Trunnion Bar Weight Distribution Hitch is usually used by trailers that travel long distance. It is also called the CURT weight distribution hitch. This product is a specialized towing system that provides an easy control for large utility vehicles. It comes with a 2" x 2" shank and at the same time have proved to be compatible with class 3, 4 and most 5 trailer hitches, including Extra Duty and Commercial Duty, as well as some RV trailer hitches.

So, while a weight distribution hitch will increase the total weight capacity of trailers hitches, it is safe and ideal that the vehicle's weight carrying capacity must be taken into consideration before towing a heavier trailer. This is why it is often advised never to exceed the limit to which this towing product can carry a utility vehicle.

The Trailer Model for This Product?

This hitch is sized for trailers in the 8,000 to 10,000 lb gross trailer weight range with up to 1,000 lb of tongue weight. It uses a 2 inch shank that can be flipped for drop or rise, and 30-5/8 inch trunnion-style forged steel spring bars. A 2-1/2 inch by 2-1/2 inch replacement WD shank is available if your receiver needs it.

Features

The Trunnion Bar Weight Distribution Hitch features a heavy-duty formed head and square spring bars constructed from forged steel. It also features built-in sway control attachment tabs. It is rated for 10,000 lb maximum gross trailer weight and 1,000 lb tongue weight.

Pros

• Fits Class 3, Class 4 and many Class 5 receivers, including Extra Duty and Commercial Duty.
• Finishing is done with highly durable black powder coat to avoid it from rusting and scratching.
• Suitable for trailers that travel long distance.

Cons

• A trailer ball is not included and must be purchased separately.
• 2-1/2" replacement WD shank may be required
• Can be noisy so, needs constant lubrication

Product Specifications

Part Model: CURT 17302 Long Trunnion Bar Weight Distribution Hitch

Finish: Carbide black powder coat

Weight Capacity: 10,000 lb gross trailer weight, 1,000 lb tongue weight

Spring Bars: 30-5/8 inch trunnion bars

Warranty:

CURT covers the 17302 with a limited lifetime warranty, with one year on the finish and one year on parts. CURT will not accept Products unless a Returned Goods Authorization (RGA) has been issued. Therefore, the Purchaser must have proof of purchase to obtain service under this Limited Warranty.

Reviews

Trunnion Bar Towing Hitch usually come with it's own capacity. The most accurate way to rate trailer tongue weight is to weigh your trailer. You can also spitball by determining what 15% of your trailer's maximum weight is, as tongue weight should land between 10 and 15 percent of the loaded weight of your trailer.

I will rate this product 4 out of 5 stars.

Conclusion

Now that you are fully aware of the need to have a Trunnion towing distribution hitch, you need to find out the type of devise that suits your need. Set it up right, stay under the ratings stamped on the hitch and on your tow vehicle, and keep your speed sensible. A weight distribution hitch makes a heavy trailer tow far better, but it does not raise the tow rating of your truck.