Weight Distribution Shank....Need a 2.5" receiver end by 18" Long - Where to Source?

[SoCal Angler]

RE:

'23 GMC 3500 4X4, Crew Cab standard bed

 

I finally got around to setting up my travel trailer as I prepare for a weeklong trip.  Since I now have a 2.5" receiver, I purchased an Equalizer brand shank that is 2.5" on receiver end with a 3" drop and 7" rise.  It's 12" long and my tailgate hits the electric jack when I attempt to lower tailgate.  Tailgate must be taller than my previous 2003 Ford F350, as I was able to lower tailgate with a 12" long shank.  It may also be that the Ford was a 4X2.  

 

Can't seem to source a 2.5" shank that is 18" long, in any drop/rise format.  I can find 18” length but only for 2” receivers.

 

Anyone run into this issue?  What did you do?

Were you able to source a 2.5" receiver end that is 18" long?  If so, please share. 
 

I considered using the 2.5” to 2” reducer that came with my truck and purchase the 2”x 18” long shank but have heard that the reducers can oblong or egg shape the receiver from the slop and constant movement when towing heavy trailers.  
 

thoughts?

 

Thanks!

Edited October 20, 2023 by SoCal Angler

[slj2008]

12 hours ago, SoCal Angler said:

RE:

'23 GMC 3500 4X4, Crew Cab standard bed

 

I finally got around to setting up my travel trailer as I prepare for a weeklong trip.  Since I now have a 2.5" receiver, I purchased an Equalizer brand shank that is 2.5" on receiver end with a 3" drop and 7" rise.  It's 12" long and my tailgate hits the electric jack when I attempt to lower tailgate.  Tailgate must be taller than my previous 2003 Ford F350, as I was able to lower tailgate with a 12" long shank.  It may also be that the Ford was a 4X2.  

 

Can't seem to source a 2.5" shank that is 18" long, in any drop/rise format.  I can find 18” length but only for 2” receivers.

 

Anyone run into this issue?  What did you do?

Were you able to source a 2.5" receiver end that is 18" long?  If so, please share. 
 

I considered using the 2.5” to 2” reducer that came with my truck and purchase the 2”x 18” long shank but have heard that the reducers can oblong or egg shape the receiver from the slop and constant movement when towing heavy trailers.  
 

thoughts?

 

Thanks!

check your local  RV / Camping store they might have it, or a welding shop

[Sonders]

Can you unbolt and turn your jack so the tailgate clears it? 

[Kerry Pulaski]

Have you contacted Progress Mfg. directly (Equilizer Products) ?  Send them pix of your fit-up clearance issue.

I have an Equilizer as well. The shank is solid steel. Do not know the grade however, or if heat treated.

May also give e-trailer.com a look.

Last resort may be to have a weld shop fab a new plate to move jack further rearward , away from the ball if room. To bolt on the Tounge, not weld on.

[SoCal Angler]

On 10/23/2023 at 11:54 AM, Sonders said:

Can you unbolt and turn your jack so the tailgate clears it? 

Tried that but it still did not clear

[SoCal Angler]

I ended up going with the Equalizer brand 18" long for a 2" receiver.  I used the reducer that came with my truck.  All is solid with very little play.  Towed approx. 800 miles with TT (7500#) with no issues!  Issue solved!

[WV_Crusader]

On 11/9/2023 at 8:55 PM, SoCal Angler said:

I ended up going with the Equalizer brand 18" long for a 2" receiver.  I used the reducer that came with my truck.  All is solid with very little play.  Towed approx. 800 miles with TT (7500#) with no issues!  Issue solved!

American steel! Love my equalizer hitch!