In a word yes

There are several trains of thought on this subject. Some tug manufacturers who fit their own tow hitches say no while others who fit after market units say yes. I drive a new Nissan Pathfinder and Nissan say no. When I was driving a Subaru Outback with self leveling suspension they also say no Then there are old time vanners that swear by them so I don't really know. I would be asking the question of the tug dealer. If your vehicle is still within the warranty period it could effect this aspect of the suspension warranty. Have driven with and without without a problem .

Would be very interested in what you find out from your vehicles manufacturer

goinsoon wrote:

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In a word yes

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 Check tow ball height and front wheel guard before hitch up of van. Hitch up then remeasure your heights then trot off to nearest weighbridge. Weight both van and tug when fully loaded. If you can, unhitch van and weight it by it's lonesome. Now you will have a true idea of the weights and strains you are putting on everything. Have a chat with the people like Pedders(aust wide). They can guide you on your best and safest course.

(Me - Nissan Patrol Ute fitted with airbags, 2.7 ton,  towing Supreme 23' tandem Ezylift load levelers  2.9654 ton + wet towels)  I am glad and safer with the bits fitted. 

goinsoon wrote:

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In a word yes

I second that.most essential.

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tezzaandkay wrote:

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I am wondering....... do I really need a load leveler system on a 21ft caravan dual axle?

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 Gday...

I add my response to the "yes" vote. However, we are not aware of your tow vehicle and its age/model.

If it is an "older' Cruiser/Patrol then I would suggest you definitely get a WDH and (as a newbie) get it set up properly either by the caravan dealer or the WDH supplier.

The comments regarding 'warranty isues' on 'newer' vehicles is also valid. Read your owner's manual carefully and ask the manufacturer - perhaps through the dealer if you trust them. Many dealers/salesmen do not know so almost say the first thing that comes into their head.

Happy (and safe) Travelling

John

I wouldn't consider for one moment towing a van without an appropriate WDH.

So that leaves out the Nissan X-trail as both Nissan and Hayman Reese say definitely no way. The chassis isn't strong enough to handle the twisting forces.

Cheers, ozjohn
Currently in Phoenix Arizona.

-- Edited by ozjohn on Monday 16th of May 2011 12:15:16 PM

KIA are similar in the non-approved use of WDH's like their sister company Hyundai.

I've recently joined the Forum, and have started to look through the older posts.

I have noted a few comments about Kia Sportages and Sorentos and WDH's.

I intend towing with a Kia, and only last week emailed Kia to see if they approved the use of WDH's - this is their reply:

QUOTE

Thank you for contacting Kia Motors Australia.

The maximum towing capacities are stated on the tow bar compliance plate and these capacities cannot be exceeded by law.

Kia does not recommend the use of load leveling devices on any Kia vehicle fitted with a genuine Kia accessory tow bar, any damage caused to the vehicle or tow bar with the use of load leveling devices will not be covered under the vehicles warranty. Kia Motors Australia does not sell load leveling devices as an approved genuine accessory.

Under no circumstances should load leveling devices be used on any vehicle equipped electronic stability control (ESP).

UNQUOTE

Now that is a far reaching statement !!!

Notice that although the Kia Sportage and Sorrento are popular RV tow vehicles, KIA does not even approve of using WDHs with those vehicles.

If there are any existing Kia owners out there towing their vans (or other camper trailers or caravans) with WDHs, they should cease using the WDH immediately.

More important, is the statement about using WDHs with ANY vehicles fitted with ESC. As most recent and current vehicles are fitted with ESC, and as the ADRs change, tending towards making ESC standard on all future vehicles sold in Australia, it will sound the death knell for WDHs.

If you have any tow vehicle, of any brand, fitted with ESC and using a WDH, you should cease using the WDH immediately. If in any doubt, ask your vehicle manufacturer if a WDH is approved for your vehicle, and if not, to cease using it immediately.

If you are involved in an accident with WDHs attached, and they have not been approved by your vehicle manufacturer, the insurance company will void your insurance immediately, as the system is not in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations possibly leaving you open to substantial financial penalties and associated stress.

Food for thought - what do you reckon !!!

Wombat 280 wrote:

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There are several trains of thought on this subject. Some tug manufacturers who fit their own tow hitches say no while others who fit after market units say yes. I drive a new Nissan Pathfinder and Nissan say no.

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 Nissan do not say no. What they say is "Nissan Motor Co do not recommend the use of load levelling devices or weight distribution devices with genuine Nissan tow bar. Further, genuine Nissan tow bars must be used for towing purposes only." That is different to saying NO. The second sentence also indicates not hanging bike racks on them.

The way around that is to use a HR tow bar. HR then warrants the installation.

This nonsense is just Nissan Australia. Nissan USA actually has WDH in their catalogue.