Let’s Dive into Reese 66540 High Performance Trunnion Kit With Adjustable Hitch Bar 10000/600 Lbs., Gtw/Tw
The Reese 66540 High Performance Trunnion Kit With Adjustable Hitch Bar 10000/600 Lbs., Gtw/Tw isn’t just another towing accessory; it’s a commitment to safety, stability, and peace of mind on the road. Manufactured by Reese, a brand synonymous with quality towing solutions, this kit is designed for serious towing applications, offering a substantial Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) capacity of 10,000 lbs and a Tongue Weight (TW) capacity of 600 lbs. It promises to eliminate sway, distribute weight evenly, and make even the longest hauls feel confident and controlled.
My journey to the Reese 66540 began with a growing concern about the safety and stability of my current towing setup. I regularly tow a 24-foot travel trailer, and the sway, especially on windy days or when encountering passing semi-trucks, was becoming unnerving. I needed a reliable weight distribution system that could handle the trailer’s weight and provide improved stability without breaking the bank.
Unboxing the Reese 66540, I was immediately impressed by the robust construction and the feeling of quality. The adjustable hitch bar felt solid, and the trunnion bars looked like they could handle a serious load. The finish was clean and professional, and the included instructions were clear and concise, which is always a plus.
I considered other weight distribution kits, including models from Curt and Equal-i-zer, but ultimately chose the Reese 66540 for its superior weight rating and the included adjustable hitch bar. Some kits required purchasing the hitch bar separately, adding to the overall cost. The raised hitch ball platform also caught my eye, eliminating the need for a raised hitch ball, a feature I appreciated.
My first impression was excitement mingled with a touch of apprehension. I was eager to see if the Reese 66540 lived up to its promises of improved towing performance, but I also knew that proper installation and adjustment were crucial for optimal results.
Real-World Testing: Putting Reese 66540 High Performance Trunnion Kit With Adjustable Hitch Bar 10000/600 Lbs., Gtw/Tw to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Reese 66540 was a weekend camping trip to the mountains, a 200-mile journey involving both highway and winding mountain roads. The drive included some challenging sections with steep grades and tight curves, perfect for assessing the kit’s performance.
The difference was immediately noticeable. The trailer felt much more stable, and the sway that I had previously experienced was significantly reduced. Even when passing semi-trucks, the trailer remained firmly planted behind the tow vehicle.
The Reese 66540 performed admirably in varying conditions. A sudden rainstorm didn’t affect stability, and the kit handled the dusty gravel roads with ease. Adjusting the system was straightforward, using the serrated washers to fine-tune the head angle for optimal weight distribution.
There were no significant issues during the first use. After about 50 miles, I did pull over to check the tightness of the bolts and make a minor adjustment to the spring bar tension, but that’s typical for a new system.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and over 5,000 miles of towing, the Reese 66540 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. It has handled multiple camping trips, including a cross-state journey with varying terrain and weather conditions.
The Reese 66540 has held up remarkably well. There are some minor scratches on the powder coat finish from normal use, but there’s no sign of rust or corrosion. The trunnion bars remain straight and true, and the adjustable hitch bar shows no signs of bending or stress.
Maintenance is simple: I occasionally grease the trunnion bar pivot points and inspect the bolts for tightness. Cleaning is also easy.
The Reese 66540 outperforms my previous weight distribution setup significantly. The increased stability and reduced sway have made towing a much more comfortable and confident experience.
Breaking Down the Features of Reese 66540 High Performance Trunnion Kit With Adjustable Hitch Bar 10000/600 Lbs., Gtw/Tw
Specifications
- Gross Trailer Weight (GTW): Rated up to 10,000 lbs. This high weight rating provides ample capacity for a wide range of trailers, from mid-sized travel trailers to utility trailers carrying heavy loads.
- Tongue Weight (TW): Rated up to 600 lbs. The tongue weight capacity ensures compatibility with trailers that have a significant downward force on the hitch.
- Adjustable Hitch Bar: Included Hitch Bar #54970. The adjustable hitch bar allows for fine-tuning the hitch height to match the trailer’s coupler, ensuring a level towing setup.
- Raised Hitch Ball Platform: Eliminates the need for raised hitch balls. The raised platform simplifies installation and reduces the number of components needed.
- Head Adjustment: Easy-to-use serrated washers for head adjustment. Serrated washers make it easy to adjust the angle of the hitch head, optimizing weight distribution for different trailer loads.
- Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty. This provides peace of mind and demonstrates the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s quality and durability.
Performance & Functionality
The Reese 66540 performs exceptionally well in distributing weight and reducing trailer sway. It provides a noticeable improvement in handling and stability, making towing safer and more comfortable.
Its strengths include its high weight rating, ease of adjustment, and the included adjustable hitch bar. A minor improvement could be made to the instructions regarding initial setup and fine-tuning.
The Reese 66540 exceeds my expectations. It delivers on its promises of improved towing performance and provides a level of stability that I hadn’t experienced before.
Design & Ergonomics
The Reese 66540 is built with high-quality materials and features a robust design. The heavy-duty steel construction ensures long-lasting durability. The weight reflects the strength of the kit but can make installation a bit cumbersome for one person.
The system is relatively user-friendly, although some initial adjustment is required to achieve optimal weight distribution. The included instructions are helpful, but some experience with towing and weight distribution systems is beneficial.
Durability & Maintenance
The Reese 66540 is built to last. The heavy-duty steel construction and durable finish provide excellent resistance to wear and tear. With proper care and maintenance, this kit should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional greasing and inspection of the bolts. Parts are readily available if repairs are needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Reese 66540 kit includes everything needed for basic installation and operation, including the adjustable hitch bar and trunnion bars. However, additional accessories, such as sway control devices and weight distribution shanks, can be purchased separately to further enhance performance.
The system is compatible with most standard 2-inch receivers and 2-5/16-inch hitch balls. The ease with which it integrates is a HUGE selling point!
Pros and Cons of Reese 66540 High Performance Trunnion Kit With Adjustable Hitch Bar 10000/600 Lbs., Gtw/Tw
Pros
- High weight rating (10,000 lbs GTW / 600 lbs TW): Handles a wide range of trailers and loads.
- Adjustable hitch bar included: Simplifies setup and eliminates the need for a separate purchase.
- Easy-to-use serrated washers: Allows for precise head angle adjustment.
- Noticeable improvement in towing stability: Reduces sway and improves handling.
- Durable construction: Built to withstand years of use.
Cons
- Installation can be cumbersome for one person due to the weight of the components.
- Initial setup and adjustment may require some experience with towing systems.
Who Should Buy Reese 66540 High Performance Trunnion Kit With Adjustable Hitch Bar 10000/600 Lbs., Gtw/Tw?
The Reese 66540 is perfect for individuals who regularly tow mid-sized to large travel trailers, utility trailers, or boats, and prioritize safety and stability. It’s also suitable for those who want a complete weight distribution kit that includes an adjustable hitch bar. This is a great item for seasoned RV campers or those moving frequently.
This product is not ideal for individuals who only tow small, lightweight trailers or who are uncomfortable with basic mechanical tasks.
Consider purchasing an additional sway control device for enhanced stability, especially when towing in windy conditions.
Conclusion on Reese 66540 High Performance Trunnion Kit With Adjustable Hitch Bar 10000/600 Lbs., Gtw/Tw
The Reese 66540 High Performance Trunnion Kit With Adjustable Hitch Bar 10000/600 Lbs., Gtw/Tw is a well-built, reliable, and effective weight distribution system that delivers on its promises of improved towing performance. The high weight rating, included adjustable hitch bar, and ease of adjustment make it a valuable investment for anyone who wants to tow safely and confidently.
The price is justified by the quality of the product and the peace of mind it provides. The improved towing stability and reduced sway are well worth the investment.
I highly recommend the Reese 66540 to anyone who tows regularly and wants to enhance their towing experience. Upgrade your towing game today with the Reese 66540! You won’t regret it.