In our household, my teenagers often come to me or my wife for advice on navigating tricky or awkward situations. While we’re more than happy to guide them, their responses tend to follow a predictable pattern: they hear our “parental wisdom,” nod politely, and then promptly do the opposite. And you know what? That’s perfectly fine by me. Why? Because it’s part of growing up—learning to make decisions, facing the outcomes, and gaining independence.

As outdated parents in our mid-40s (as my kids like to remind me), our role is to equip them with tools for life rather than force decisions upon them. Some of their choices pan out brilliantly; others flop spectacularly. Either way, the lessons stick because they’ve experienced them firsthand.

Interestingly, the same concept applies in the RV industry, an ever-evolving field driven by innovation and expertise. Just as my kids rely on experimentation to learn, newcomers and seasoned experts in the RV world draw on years of shared knowledge—a professional “memory bank” of best practices, mistakes, and triumphs. This collective wisdom is crucial for supporting a growing and increasingly complex industry. And, its tied directly into one of our greatest products released in 2021.

A Parallel in Learning and Innovation

The RV industry has changed dramatically over the years. Modern RVs are longer, heavier, and packed with features, creating new challenges and opportunities for improvement. Staying ahead in this dynamic field requires continual learning, sharing knowledge, and training. Like a parent ensuring their child is ready for the world, the experts in the RV space equip customers with the information and tools they need for a safer, better experience.

This was perfectly illustrated a few months ago during a visit to a dealership’s service shop in the Midwest. Carrying our Equal-i-zer® OnTarget™ Towing Tool, I walked past busy technicians who immediately recognized the device. “Hey, that tool is awesome!” one exclaimed. “It really saved us the other day!” I was surprised and eager to learn more.

The technician shared how the tool had helped solve a customer’s towing issue—a perfect example of training meeting real-world application. The story offered valuable insight into how even small tools and proper knowledge can make a big difference.

Tackling the “V” Shape Problem

On a busy Saturday, a frustrated customer arrived at the dealership with a troubling setup: their tow vehicle’s rear axle was squatting, the trailer tongue pointed downward, and the setup formed a precarious “V” shape. This imbalance caused steering and braking issues and increased the risk of trailer sway. It was far from safe.

The technician assessed the setup and used the OnTarget Towing Tool to identify the problem. The culprit? Insufficient weight distribution due to missing washers and improperly positioned brackets. With these issues resolved and adjustments made, the technician achieved proper leveling, greatly enhancing safety and performance. The relieved customer drove away with newfound confidence and a safer towing experience.

The Role of Tools and Training

At Equal-i-zer, we’re committed to making the RV experience safer and more enjoyable—not just through manufacturing high-quality hitches but by ensuring they’re used correctly. That’s why we’ve developed training materials and tools like the OnTarget Towing Tool. Proper setup ensures a hitch isn’t just an accessory but a vital safety mechanism protecting families on the road.

When it comes to weight distribution and sway control, these aren’t separate functions but interconnected systems critical for towing safety. With nearly 80 years of experience, we’ve designed hitches that integrate both, providing superior performance. Unlike cheaper alternatives, our products prioritize safety and durability over cutting costs.

Lessons for the Future

For RV owners, taking the time to properly set up your weight distribution hitch can make a world of difference. Tools like the Equal-i-zer OnTarget Towing Tool help ensure your setup is safe, balanced, and optimized for performance. A properly configured system not only provides peace of mind but also improves your towing experience by enhancing stability, control, and braking efficiency.

Just as my kids eventually come back to say, “You were right, Dad,” we hope customers realize the value of proper training, tools, and expertise after experiencing the difference. Whether you’re planning a cross-country adventure or a weekend getaway, investing in the right equipment and taking the time to set it up correctly will lead to safer, more enjoyable trips.

If you’re an RV enthusiast and would like to learn more about proper hitch setup or the Equal-i-zer OnTarget Towing Tool, our team is ready to help. Together, we can make your journeys safer and filled with great memories.

Safe travels,

Deven McCann, Equal-i-zer Hitch Sales Account Manager