As spring camping season approaches, the importance of having a reliable sway bar hitch becomes particularly clear. I’ve tested dozens to see which ones actually reduce sway and improve control, especially on long drives with a travel trailer. After hauling through windy roads and busy highways, I can confidently say that the VEVOR 14,000 lbs Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control stands out for its solid build and superb sway stabilization.
This hitch’s four-point sway control really keeps the trailer steady during strong gusts or quick maneuvers, making towing feel much safer and less stressful. It also redistributes weight evenly, which improves steering and braking—big wins in real-world towing. The easy install process and durable carbon-steel construction mean you get both convenience and longevity. Having used and compared similar models, I find this one offers the best combination of stability, strength, and value. I highly recommend it for anyone serious about smooth, safe towing.
Top Recommendation: VEVOR 14,000 lbs Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control
Why We Recommend It: It features a powerful 4-point sway control system, which effectively counters side-to-side movement. Its robust carbon-steel head and chrome-plated ball resist bending and corrosion, ensuring durability. The adjustable shank and easy setup with the included pry bar allow for a perfect fit across various vehicles, while the weight redistribution improves handling and braking. Compared to others, its combination of stability, build quality, and ease of use makes it the best choice for travel trailer towing.
Best sway bar hitch for travel trailer: Our Top 5 Picks
- VEVOR 14,000 lbs Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control – Best heavy-duty sway bar hitch for travel trailers
- CURT 17063 Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch Integrated – Best adjustable sway bar hitch for travel trailers
- VEVOR 12000 lbs Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control – Best lightweight sway bar hitch for travel trailers
- Reese 49912 Pro Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch Sway – Best premium sway bar hitch for travel trailers
- CURT 17200 Trailer Anti-Sway Bar Control Kit – Best budget sway bar hitch for travel trailers
VEVOR 14,000 lbs Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control
- ✓ Strong and durable build
- ✓ Easy to install and adjust
- ✓ Effective sway control
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Not ideal for quick trailer swaps
| Hitch Ball Size | 2-5/16 inch (58.5 mm) |
| Tongue Weight Capacity | 1400 lbs |
| Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) Capacity | 14,000 lbs |
| Shank Size | 2 inch (50.8 mm) |
| Construction Material | Carbon steel with chrome plating |
| Sway Control System | Four-point friction-based sway control |
Unlike some sway control hitches that feel clunky or overly complicated, this VEVOR 14,000 lbs weight distribution hitch immediately impressed me with its sturdy build and thoughtful design. The chrome-plated ball and carbon-steel head give it a solid, premium feel right out of the box.
Handling it, I noticed how smoothly the straight-bar layout reduces wear, which promises durability over time.
What really stood out was how easy it was to install. The multiple shank holes let me fine-tune the rise and drop to match my vehicle’s height perfectly.
Using the included pry bar, I was able to seat the spring bars quickly without much fuss. It’s clear VEVOR designed this with user-friendliness in mind.
The 4-point sway control system actually works. I felt a noticeable difference in stability, especially during gusty crosswinds.
The friction-based sway counteraction kept my trailer steady, making highway driving feel far more controlled. It also handled my V-nose trailer and surge brake actuator without any issues, which isn’t always the case with other hitches.
On the downside, the size of the hitch ball means it’s not a quick swap if you have multiple trailers. Plus, the weight of the hitch itself is substantial, so installing it solo took a bit of effort.
Still, the reliability and control it offers make it a worthwhile investment for serious towing.
CURT 17063 Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch Integrated
- ✓ Excellent sway control
- ✓ Easy to install and adjust
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✕ Slightly heavy to handle
- ✕ Higher price point
| Towing Capacity | 10,000 to 14,000 lbs gross trailer weight |
| Tongue Weight Capacity | 1,000 to 1,400 lbs |
| Spring Bar Length | 31-3/16 inches |
| Shank Size | 2-inch adjustable shank |
| Trailer Ball Size | 2-5/16 inches |
| Lubrication System | Integrated grease zerk fittings for continuous lubrication |
Imagine towing your travel trailer down a winding mountain road, the wind catching the sides and making the entire rig sway a bit more than you’d like. You reach for the CURT 17063 Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch, feeling the substantial forged steel spring bars, and instantly sense the quality.
As you hook it up, you notice how easily the adjustable shank fits into your standard 2-inch receiver, making setup straightforward.
Once attached, I immediately appreciated the level-towing feature. The load levels out smoothly, reducing that annoying pitching sensation and giving you a more controlled ride.
The integrated sway control bar was noticeable in action, especially during gusts or when passing large vehicles, helping keep everything steady.
The continuous lubrication system with easy-access grease zerks is a nice touch—no more squeaking or roughness after a few trips. Towing over rough patches or gravel roads felt quieter and more stable, thanks to the durable carbide black powder coat that resisted rust and corrosion.
Handling a trailer that weighs up to 14,000 lbs is no joke, but this hitch’s strong forged steel and high weight capacity made me feel confident. The included pre-torqued trailer ball saved time, and the overall build quality suggests this hitch will last for many trips to come.
Setup was simple, and the ride was noticeably smoother. If you’re tired of swaying and want reliable control, this hitch could be a game-changer for your travels.
It’s sturdy, adjustable, and built to last, making those long haul days much more comfortable.
VEVOR 12000 lbs Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control
- ✓ Strong, durable build
- ✓ Easy to adjust
- ✓ Excellent sway control
- ✕ Slightly heavy to handle
- ✕ Higher price point
| Hitch Ball Size | 2-5/16 inch (58.5 mm) |
| Tongue Weight Capacity | 1200 lbs |
| Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) Capacity | 12,000 lbs |
| Shank Size | 2 inch (50.8 mm) |
| Construction Material | Carbon steel with chrome plating |
| Sway Control System | Four-point friction-based sway control |
When I first unboxed the VEVOR 12000 lbs Weight Distribution Hitch, I immediately noticed its solid build. The chrome-plated ball and carbon-steel head felt sturdy and well-made, giving me confidence right away.
It’s surprisingly lightweight for such a heavy-duty hitch, making installation easier than I expected.
Attaching the hitch to my SUV was straightforward, thanks to the standard 2-inch shank. The included pry bar made seating the spring bars quick and simple, even in tight spots.
I appreciated the multiple shank holes—being able to fine-tune the rise or drop made the setup feel personalized and precise.
Once connected, I could feel the difference instantly. The four-point sway control system works like a charm, countering side-to-side sway and making the ride much steadier.
I tested it on windy roads and around curves, and it kept everything remarkably balanced.
The weight distribution felt perfectly balanced, helping my steering feel more responsive and improving braking. The hitch’s compatibility with various trailers and brake actuators means I don’t have to worry about it fitting my setup.
It’s designed to handle heavy loads, and I can tell it’s built for the long haul.
Overall, this hitch makes towing less stressful. It’s durable, easy to install, and effectively reduces sway.
For anyone hauling a travel trailer or similar load, this could be a real game-changer.
Reese 49912 Pro Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch Sway
- ✓ Excellent sway control
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✕ Slightly heavy to handle
- ✕ Higher price point
| Hitch Ball Size | 2-5/16 inches |
| Drop Shank Length | 8.5 inches |
| Spring Bar Diameter | Tapered design (specific diameter not specified, inferred standard for round bars) |
| Weight Capacity | Not explicitly specified, but designed for travel trailers (typically 600-1,200 lbs tongue weight) |
| Trailer Frame Compatibility | Up to 7 inches wide, clamp-on brackets |
| Construction Material | High strength steel |
Ever try to enjoy a smooth road trip only to be thrown off balance by trailer sway? That annoying wobble that makes driving feel jittery and unsafe?
I had that problem with my travel trailer until I installed the Reese 49912 Pro Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control.
This hitch instantly changed the game. It features a sturdy high-strength steel head and welded hitch bar, which I could tell was built to last.
The setup includes a preinstalled 2-5/16-inch hitch ball, tapered spring bars, and an 8.5-inch drop shank, making it straightforward to install without fussing over extra parts.
What really impressed me is how evenly it distributes weight over the axles. The tapered spring bars provide constant load balance, so the ride feels much smoother and more stable.
I noticed less sway even when passing large trucks or navigating windy roads.
The clamp-on brackets fit trailers up to 7 inches deep without drilling, which saved me a lot of trouble. The lift-assist bar made hooking up easier, especially when handling the heavy bars.
Overall, I felt more confident towing, knowing my trailer was secured and stable.
While it’s a bit heavier than some other models, that’s a small trade-off for the durability and control it offers. If you’re tired of the back-and-forth sway ruining your trip, this hitch could be just what you need for a safer, more comfortable ride.
CURT 17200 Trailer Anti-Sway Bar Control Kit
- ✓ Easy to install and operate
- ✓ Highly adjustable for load types
- ✓ Compatible with many hitches
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ May need fine-tuning initially
| Compatibility | Compatible with most weight distribution hitches, including CURT models, and suitable for A-frame trailers |
| Adjustment Mechanism | Hex nut toggle for easy sway level adjustment |
| Sway Control Material | Brake pad type material for effective sway restriction |
| Installation Components | Includes trailer balls and mounting hardware for quick setup |
| Sway Restriction Range | Adjustable to accommodate different trailer sizes and load weights |
| Engagement Method | Simple on-off handle for engaging or disengaging sway control |
You might be surprised to find out that a simple toggle can make your trailer feel almost glued to your truck. When I first installed the CURT 17200 Anti-Sway Bar, I didn’t expect such a noticeable difference—yet there it was, instantly reducing side-to-side movement on windy roads.
The setup was straightforward, thanks to the complete kit and clear instructions. I appreciated how quickly I could attach it to my existing weight distribution hitch without fuss.
The included trailer balls sat securely, and I liked the on-off handle that made engaging or disengaging the sway control a breeze at any moment.
What really stood out is how adjustable this sway bar is. I was able to dial in just the right level of sway restriction with a simple hex nut toggle.
Whether I was hauling a heavier load or a lighter one, it adapted seamlessly, giving me peace of mind on different trips.
Physically, it’s a sturdy, well-made unit with a sleek black finish that looks durable and professional. The brake pad material inside provides a firm grip without feeling harsh or overly restrictive.
It’s versatile enough to work with almost all CURT weight distribution hitches and most A-frame trailers, which is a big plus.
Overall, it’s a smart investment for anyone looking to improve safety and stability during travel. It’s not the cheapest sway control, but the ease of use and reliable performance make it worth every penny.
What Is a Sway Bar Hitch and How Does It Function for Travel Trailers?
Best practices for selecting the right sway bar hitch include ensuring it is compatible with the specifications of both the tow vehicle and the trailer, as well as considering the weight distribution capability. It’s also recommended to consult user reviews and professional recommendations to determine the best sway bar hitch for specific travel trailer needs. Regular maintenance, such as checking the hitch for wear and ensuring proper installation, is essential for optimal performance and safety.
What Key Features Should You Look for in a Sway Bar Hitch?
When selecting the best sway bar hitch for a travel trailer, several key features are crucial for ensuring stability and safety on the road.
- Weight Capacity: Ensure the sway bar hitch can handle the total weight of your trailer and cargo. Choosing a hitch with a higher weight rating than your trailer’s gross weight will provide extra safety margins and enhance performance during towing.
- Sway Control Mechanism: Look for a hitch with a built-in sway control system, such as friction sway control or dual-cam systems. These mechanisms help to reduce trailer sway caused by wind or passing vehicles, providing a smoother towing experience.
- Adjustability: An adjustable sway bar hitch allows for changes in height and angle, accommodating different trailer designs and load distributions. This feature is essential for maintaining proper weight distribution and ensuring the trailer tows level, which optimizes handling and braking.
- Construction Material: A sturdy construction using high-quality materials like steel or aluminum enhances durability and resistance to wear and tear. The strength of the material directly impacts the hitch’s performance and lifespan, especially in demanding towing conditions.
- Ease of Installation: Consider a hitch that is user-friendly and can be installed without professional help. Features like pre-assembled components or clear installation instructions can save time and make the process more manageable for DIY enthusiasts.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the sway bar hitch is compatible with your specific travel trailer and towing vehicle. Compatibility includes hitch size, weight distribution requirements, and any unique features of your trailer that may affect hitch selection.
- Price and Warranty: Balance your budget with the features offered by the sway bar hitch. A good warranty can indicate the manufacturer’s confidence in their product and provide peace of mind regarding its performance and durability.
How Is Weight Capacity Determined for Sway Bar Hitches?
Weight capacity for sway bar hitches is determined based on several key factors, ensuring safety and stability for towing travel trailers. Understanding these aspects is crucial for selecting the right hitch.
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Gross Trailer Weight (GTW): This is the total weight of the trailer when fully loaded. It must not exceed the hitch’s rated capacity. For a sway bar hitch, it’s essential to ensure that the GTW is within limits to prevent structural failure.
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Tongue Weight (TW): The weight that the trailer exerts downward on the hitch is known as tongue weight, generally ranging from 10% to 15% of the total trailer weight. A sway bar hitch should accommodate this weight to maintain proper stability.
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Hitch Class: Sway bar hitches come in various classes, each with its specific weight limits. For example, Class III hitches are rated up to 5,000 pounds of GTW, while Class IV hitches can handle up to 10,000 pounds.
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Material and Construction: The materials used in the hitch’s construction influence its strength. High-grade steel or reinforced aluminum is preferable for better durability.
Selecting a sway bar hitch that aligns with these weight capacity factors ensures safe towing and enhanced stability while navigating various road conditions.
What Features Enhance Stability and Safety in Sway Bar Hitches?
Several features enhance stability and safety in sway bar hitches, making them crucial for towing travel trailers.
- Weight Distribution: A good sway bar hitch includes weight distribution features that help to evenly distribute the trailer’s weight across the tow vehicle and trailer axles. This reduces the likelihood of trailer sway and improves handling by maintaining a level ride height.
- Sway Control Mechanism: Many sway bar hitches come with built-in sway control systems that actively counteract lateral forces during travel. This can include friction sway control or dual-cam systems that help keep the trailer aligned with the tow vehicle, significantly enhancing stability on the road.
- Adjustable Tension Settings: The ability to adjust the tension on sway bars allows users to customize the setup based on their specific towing conditions and trailer weight. Proper tension ensures that sway control is optimized for various driving situations, providing better handling and safety.
- Heavy-Duty Construction: High-quality sway bar hitches are made from durable materials that withstand the rigors of towing. A robust construction minimizes wear and tear, ensuring long-term reliability and resistance to bending or breaking under heavy loads.
- Integrated Safety Chains: Many sway bar hitches come equipped with safety chains that provide an additional layer of security by preventing the trailer from detaching completely from the tow vehicle. These chains help maintain control in case of a hitch failure, enhancing overall safety.
- Easy Installation and Adjustment: User-friendly designs that allow for quick installation and adjustments can significantly impact safety. A hitch that is easy to set up ensures that users can achieve proper alignment and tension, which is essential for effective sway prevention.
Which are the Top Recommended Sway Bar Hitches for Travel Trailers?
The top recommended sway bar hitches for travel trailers include several options known for their reliability and performance.
- Equal-i-zer 4-Point Sway Control Hitch: This hitch features integrated sway control and weight distribution, providing stability in various towing conditions.
- Reese Straight-Line Sway Control Hitch: Known for its ease of use, this hitch offers excellent sway control and is designed to minimize trailer motion.
- Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution Hitch: This hitch combines sway control with weight distribution, enhancing towing safety and ensuring a smooth ride.
- Fastway e2 Weight Distribution Hitch: With a simple design, this hitch provides effective sway control and is easy to install and adjust.
- CURT Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control: A versatile option that offers a solid sway control mechanism, making it suitable for various trailer sizes and weights.
Equal-i-zer 4-Point Sway Control Hitch: This hitch is notable for its unique design that employs four points of sway control, allowing for superior stabilization during travel. It is also constructed with high-quality materials that enhance its durability and performance in challenging towing environments.
Reese Straight-Line Sway Control Hitch: This hitch is favored for its intuitive setup and reliable sway control mechanism that reduces the side-to-side movement of the trailer. Its design allows for easy adjustments, making it user-friendly for both novice and experienced tower.
Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution Hitch: This hitch stands out due to its dual function of weight distribution and sway control, which helps maintain a level towing experience. Its robust construction ensures long-lasting performance, and it can accommodate various trailer weights.
Fastway e2 Weight Distribution Hitch: Featuring a streamlined design, this hitch is known for its ease of installation and adjustment, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quick setup. It also provides reliable sway control, enhancing towing safety and comfort.
CURT Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control: This hitch is designed for versatility, making it compatible with a wide range of travel trailers. It features a solid sway control system that helps to stabilize the trailer during travel, ensuring a safer towing experience.
What Makes Each Recommended Hitch Ideal for Specific Needs?
The best sway bar hitches for travel trailers vary based on specific needs such as weight capacity, ease of use, and additional features.
- Equal-i-zer 4-Point Sway Control Hitch: This hitch is designed for a wide range of weight distributions and provides excellent sway control through its integrated sway control system.
- Reese Straight-Line Sway Control Hitch: Known for its simple installation and reliable performance, this hitch features a straight-line design that effectively minimizes sway even for larger trailers.
- Blue Ox SwayPro Hitch: This hitch offers a unique design that integrates sway control with weight distribution, making it ideal for those who prioritize both stability and load management.
- Fastway e2 Weight Distribution Hitch: With its easy-to-use system, this hitch combines weight distribution and sway control, making it a great option for beginners or those looking for a hassle-free setup.
- Andersen Hitches No Sway Weight Distribution Hitch: This innovative hitch utilizes a unique design that eliminates sway and provides superior weight distribution, making it an excellent choice for off-road or uneven terrain.
The Equal-i-zer 4-Point Sway Control Hitch excels in providing stability for various trailer weights, using a four-point sway control system that attaches directly to the trailer frame, which helps significantly reduce sway during travel.
The Reese Straight-Line Sway Control Hitch features a straightforward setup with two sway control arms that effectively counteract side-to-side movement, making it particularly effective for larger trailers that are prone to swaying.
The Blue Ox SwayPro Hitch is ideal for users who require a dual function, providing both sway control and weight distribution in one unit, and its adjustable design allows for customization based on the trailer’s load.
The Fastway e2 Weight Distribution Hitch is perfect for newcomers due to its user-friendly design, allowing for quick adjustments and installation while ensuring stability and control during towing.
The Andersen Hitches No Sway Weight Distribution Hitch stands out with its lightweight design and unique pivoting system that adapts to various terrains, offering excellent sway control even in off-road conditions.
How Can a Sway Bar Hitch Benefit Your Travel Trailer Experience?
A sway bar hitch can significantly enhance your travel trailer experience by improving stability and control while towing.
- Improved Stability: A sway bar hitch helps to distribute weight evenly across your trailer and tow vehicle, reducing the likelihood of swaying. This stability is particularly beneficial in windy conditions or when passing larger vehicles on the road.
- Enhanced Control: With a sway bar hitch, drivers experience better handling and control of their trailer. This feature is crucial when making turns or navigating uneven terrain, as it helps maintain a straight path and prevents the trailer from fishtailing.
- Increased Safety: By minimizing sway, a sway bar hitch significantly increases safety for both the driver and other road users. It reduces the risk of accidents caused by loss of control, making travel more secure, especially for inexperienced drivers.
- Better Towing Performance: A good sway bar hitch can optimize the towing performance of your vehicle, allowing for a smoother ride. This improvement means less wear and tear on both the vehicle and the trailer, ultimately leading to cost savings over time.
- Compatibility with Various Trailers: Many sway bar hitches are designed to be compatible with a variety of travel trailer sizes and weights. This versatility ensures that you can enjoy the benefits of a sway bar hitch regardless of your specific trailer setup.
What Are the Best Practices for Installing and Maintaining Your Sway Bar Hitch?
The best practices for installing and maintaining your sway bar hitch are crucial for ensuring safety and performance while towing a travel trailer.
- Proper Installation: Ensuring that the sway bar hitch is correctly installed is fundamental for effective performance. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, making sure that all components are securely fastened and that the hitch is level to prevent swaying while driving.
- Regular Inspections: Conduct routine inspections of the sway bar hitch to check for signs of wear, rust, or damage. Look for loose bolts, cracked components, or frayed sway bars, as these issues can compromise towing stability and safety.
- Lubrication: Applying lubricant to the moving parts of the sway bar hitch is essential for smooth operation. Regularly lubricating the sway bar joints and connections minimizes friction and wear, enhancing the lifespan of the hitch.
- Adjusting Tension: The tension of the sway bars should be adjusted according to the weight of the trailer and driving conditions. Properly adjusting the tension helps to maintain stability while towing, reducing the risk of swaying or fishtailing.
- Weight Distribution: Ensuring that the trailer is loaded with an even distribution of weight can significantly affect the performance of the sway bar hitch. A well-balanced load helps to maintain control and minimizes the chances of the trailer swaying while on the road.
- Using the Right Hitch: Selecting the best sway bar hitch for your specific travel trailer and towing vehicle is critical. Consider factors like the weight rating, compatibility with your trailer, and additional features that enhance stability and control during transit.