Length of shank/ball mount - Dutchmen Owners
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Old 04-03-2014, 12:29 AM   #1
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Length of shank/ball mount

Looking for some info I've not been able to find elsewhere. Purchased a new Reese WD ball mount/shank assembly. When installed in my receiver, the ball is nearly 11 inches past my bumper. Aside from making it a good shin buster,what purpose does this serve? There is no way I could turn short enough to hit trailer if I shortened it. In my mind the closer to the pickup axle, the better. Would I be making a mistake to cut it off, and drill a new hole for pull pin? Any ideas? Thanks, Kirk
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Old 04-03-2014, 01:49 AM   #2
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I believe that the extra length gives your trailer a bit of leverage over the truck with the weight distributing bars attached.
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Old 04-03-2014, 01:51 AM   #3
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DONT CUT IT OFF!!!!
I am not a engineer, but I think I can explain.

The added length is on my equalizer hitch as well.

If you think of the Weight Distribution System as a lever, which transfers weight back to the front end, cutting the extra length, will reduce the ability of the level to transfer the weight. Don't know if that makes since, or not, but in less then 100 words, it the best that I can explain.

Just take the hitch off when not in use....
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Old 04-03-2014, 03:09 PM   #4
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shank length

Thanks to you and macman83 for your input. I understand what you are both saying, and it does make sense. I appreciate the help from you both!
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Old 04-03-2014, 04:59 PM   #5
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Tailgate clearance! If I were to cut mine off I would not be able to open the tailgate all the way when the trailer is hooked up. Now this may not be THE reason it is so long but it is a wonderful benefit.
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Old 04-04-2014, 09:44 PM   #6
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With our Equal-I-zer hitch I cannot fully open the tailgate as it hits the power jack post. Equal-I-zer does make an extended shank for this reason, so I'm guess yours is longer than normal for just that reason (like memgrove stated).
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