Last Updated on July 10, 2023 by Will Sabel
Sometimes it happens that your trailer hitch is producing annoying noise. As a regular hitch user, I understand how annoying it is. I faced the same problem and tried to find a solution. After going through some research, I found that there are some methods following which you can stop the rattling sound of your trailer hitch.
In this article, I will be sharing those methods you can try to stop your trailer hitch from rattling.
The reason behind your trailer hitch rattles is the instability issue. So, in order to solve this problem, you need to make your trailer hitch stable. Basically, there are four different methods you can follow to stop your trailer hitch from rattling.
4 Methods To Stop Trailer Hitch From Rattling
Method 1: Bringing an anti-rattle pin
The most simple and effective way to stop your trailer hitch from rattling is by bringing an anti-rattle clamp. It is also known as an anti-rattle wobble. The anti-rattle clamp or wobble remains installed against the shank tightly not to allow it to vibrate inside your receiver. As a result, there will be more stability in the connection and there will be no rattling.
You will find the anti-rattle in pin configuration or in an adjustable clamp or locking mechanism for adding better security. There are also some kits of anti-rattle that are used with another hitch to quiet the noise.
Method 2: Using a sway control unit
The sway control is an accessory that remains attached between the hitch and the tongue of the trailer. It helps to reduce your trailers’ side-to-side movement.
However, the sway control can be the best or worst. It helps to stable your hitch by preventing side-to-side motion. You will be able to install a sway control using its own ball mount or in tandem along with a weight-distribution hitch. In order to get maximum stability, you have to use two sway controls.
Method 3: Balanced towing using a weight-distribution hitch
Basically, the duty of a weight-distribution hitch is managing the exceeding weight at the connection point of your hitch and receiver. It is a receiver accessory. The weight distribution hitch is a hitch stabilizer. This hitch type is also used on different types of trailers.
The stabilizer usually has two arms. These arms leverage down on the tongue of your trailer. As a result, the tongue weight gets spread across the axle of your vehicle. You will find your trailer hitch is stable.
Method 4: Quiet towing using a cushion hitch
The cushion hitch is also known as a hitch stabilizer. It uses a buffer for reducing the vibrating, rattling and jerking of your trailer. There is no specific buffer. Either it can be a piece of rubber or a bearing or an airbag.
This type of hitch remains installed on your vehicle with the help of a receiver tube. The cushion hitch will absorb all the rattling, jerking, or vibration whenever your trailer will pass uneven roads or potholes. Without it, this hitch will also reduce the stress on your vehicle. You will be able to have a smooth experience of driving.
Installing and Using Different Hitch Anti-Rattle Mechanisms
Why Is My Hitch Rattling
Trailer hitch rattle is primarily caused by the following factors:
Incorrect Fit: If the hitch doesn’t sit flush within the receiver, it can cause gaps. These gaps are the main reason for the rattling sound when you drive.
Use of Adapters: The rattle can become more pronounced if you use adapters for a different-size hitch. As these adapters may not be perfectly flush with your existing hitch, they can start to vibrate and rattle while you’re driving.
Worn-out Parts: Over time and usage, hitch parts can wear out or become loose. This leads to extra movement and subsequently, a rattling noise.
Excessive Movement: Too much movement in the trailer, especially due to poor weight distribution, can cause the hitch to rattle. Improper tongue weight balance can result in excessive sway, prompting a noisy hitch.
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