Introduction
The Blue Ox BXW1500 SwayPro Weight Distribution Hitch is designed to evenly distribute weight over the axles of the tow vehicle and the trailer, enhancing stability and control during towing. This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your hitch.
Figure 1: Main assembly of the Blue Ox BXW1500 SwayPro Weight Distribution Hitch.
Figure 2: The SwayPro hitch features spring bars rated for 1,500 lbs tongue weight and a gross towing weight of 15,000 lbs maximum.
Product Components
The BXW1500 SwayPro Weight Distribution Hitch includes the following components:
- Hitch Head: Standard coupler hitch head.
- Standard Shank: 7-hole/9-inch receiver stinger, offering 0 to 5 inches of adjustment.
- Clamp-on Brackets: For quick and easy setup on the trailer frame.
- Spring Bars: Rated for 1,500 lbs tongue weight and 15,000 lbs gross towing weight.
- Hardware: All necessary bolts, nuts, and pins for installation.
Figure 3: Exploded view of the BXW1500 components, highlighting the 7-hole standard shank, hitch head, spring bars, and associated hardware.
Setup
Proper setup is crucial for safe and effective towing. Ensure your trailer has a coupler welded to the top of the frame and no cross-members or equipment blocking the installation area.
- Prepare Vehicle and Trailer: Ensure both the tow vehicle and trailer are on a level surface and aligned straight.
- Install Hitch Head and Shank: Insert the standard shank into your vehicle's receiver. Attach the hitch head to the shank using the provided hardware, ensuring it is at the correct height for your trailer.
- Connect Trailer: Lower the trailer coupler onto the hitch ball and secure the coupler latch.
- Attach Spring Bars: Insert the spring bars into the hitch head. The spring bars are designed to augment the suspensions of both the tow vehicle and trailer.
- Secure Spring Bars with Clamp-on Brackets: Position the clamp-on brackets on the trailer frame. Use the provided tool to rotate the latches and secure the spring bars into the brackets. Ensure the chains are taut but not excessively tight.
- Verify Leveling: After connecting and securing, check that the tow vehicle and trailer are level. Adjust the spring bar tension as needed to achieve proper weight distribution.
Figure 4: Rotating latches with clamp-on brackets facilitate quick and easy setup of the hitch.
Operating
The SwayPro hitch provides continuous sway prevention and weight distribution for a balanced towing experience.
- Weight Distribution: The spring bars work to evenly distribute the tongue weight across all axles of the tow vehicle and trailer, preventing rear-end sag and improving steering control.
- Sway Prevention: The integrated design provides noise-free sway prevention that operates continuously, even in adverse weather conditions like rain or snow.
- Driving: Drive at appropriate speeds for towing and road conditions. The hitch is designed to maintain stability and control.
Figure 5: The hitch ensures even weight distribution over axles, with caster in the hitch head constantly centering the trailer.
Figure 6: Spring bars augment the suspensions of both the tow vehicle and trailer for improved ride quality.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and safe operation of your SwayPro hitch.
- Inspection: Before each trip, inspect all components for wear, damage, or loose fasteners.
- Lubrication: Keep moving parts, especially the hitch ball and spring bar connections, adequately lubricated according to manufacturer recommendations.
- Cleaning: Clean the hitch components regularly to remove dirt, grime, and road salt, which can cause corrosion.
- Storage: When not in use, store the hitch in a dry, protected area to prevent rust and damage.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your SwayPro hitch, consider the following:
- Excessive Sway: Ensure spring bars are correctly tensioned and the trailer is loaded properly with adequate tongue weight.
- Uneven Ride: Re-check weight distribution settings. Adjust spring bar tension to achieve a level tow vehicle and trailer.
- Noise: Ensure all moving parts are lubricated. Check for any loose components or signs of wear.
- Difficulty Connecting/Disconnecting: Ensure the trailer jack is used to lift the trailer sufficiently to relieve tension on the spring bars before connecting or disconnecting.
Specifications
| Brand | Blue Ox |
| Model Number | BXW1500 |
| Tongue Weight Capacity | 1,500 lbs |
| Gross Towing Weight | 15,000 lbs maximum |
| Shank Type | Standard 7-hole/9-inch receiver stinger |
| Shank Adjustment | 0 to 5 inches |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Finish Type | Powder Coated |
| Product Dimensions | 46 x 28 x 18 inches |
| Item Weight | 0.16 ounces (Note: This weight is likely a data entry error and does not reflect the actual product weight.) |
Warranty
The SwayPro Weight Distributing Hitch is backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty. For specific terms and conditions, please refer to the official Blue Ox warranty documentation or contact Blue Ox customer support.
Support
For further assistance, technical support, or replacement parts, please visit the official Blue Ox website or contact their customer service department. Always refer to the most current product documentation for detailed instructions and safety information.
Official Blue Ox Store: Visit the Blue Ox Store on Amazon
