How Is The ProPride 3P® Jim Hensley Hitch Different From Other Sway Control Hitches?
Weight distribution hitches are designed to address trailer sway by reducing speed, increasing friction, activating the trailer brakes, or properly distributing weight. These hitches may be referred to as sway control hitches, equalizer hitches, stabilizer hitches, or anti-sway hitches. The ProPride 3P® Jim Hensley Hitch stands out as the most advanced option on the market, offering superior performance. But what makes the ProPride 3P® Jim Hensley Hitch different from other sway control hitches? In this article, we will explore the unique features and patented 3P technology of the ProPride 3P® Jim Hensley Hitch and compare it to traditional friction-based sway control hitches to highlight its innovation and superiority.
What is ProPride 3P® Jim Hensley Hitch?
The ProPride 3P® Jim Hensley Hitch uses Pivot Point Projection, or 3P technology, to project a virtual pivot point near the tow vehicle's rear axle. This changes the effective pivot point of the trailer from the hitch ball to the projected pivot point, resulting in a shorter lever arm distance between the trailer's pivot point and the tow vehicle's rear axle. This shortening of the distance significantly improves the stability of both the trailer and the tow vehicle when the trailer is subjected to external forces. Many fifth-wheel trailer and gooseneck trailer owners are familiar with the improved stability provided by a forward pivot point. Jim Hensley, the man who revolutionized hitch performance with his old Hensley Arrow® hitch design, has improved and enhanced his new anti-sway trailer hitch design for your extraordinary towing experience with the ProPride 3P®.
Pivot Point Projection or 3P Technology
The Pivot Point Projection, or 3P technology used in the ProPride 3P® Jim Hensley Hitch operates differently than other sway control hitches. It locks out the trailer coupler and prevents the trailer from moving on the ball, directing any external forces attempting to pivot the trailer at the coupler towards the tow vehicle's rear axle instead. This provides an unbreachable level of stability, allowing the tow vehicle and trailer to move as a single unit. With the ProPride 3P®, there is no need for manual correction of trailer sway, as it is prevented from occurring in the first place. The hitch ball does not move, eliminating the leverage that could throw the trailer out of balance. The lego demonstration below may help illustrate this concept.
Weight Distribution
The ProPride 3P® hitch is designed with weight distribution in mind. Its sway control feature operates independently from its weight distribution feature, which is controlled by two heavy-duty weight distribution jacks. These jacks allow the user to adjust the amount of weight distributed to the axles of the towing vehicle, giving them full control over the weight distribution.
How Is The ProPride 3P® Jim Hensley Hitch Different From Other Sway Control Hitches?
While many hitches rely on friction to reduce sway, the ProPride 3P® Hitch offers a superior solution. Its design eliminates sway entirely, making it a clear advantage over friction-based sway control hitches. In this section, we will compare the ProPride 3P® Jim Hensley Hitch to friction-based sway control hitches to highlight the differences between the two.
| ProPride 3P® Jim Hensley Hitch | Friction based solution |
| Eliminates sway | Reduces sway |
| Silent | Loud |
| 3P technology | Pivot point is still on the hitch ball |
| Solid steel, durable design and construction | Cheaper because of simple mechanisms |
| Patented yoke, 3/4" thick Pivot Point Projection control links | Needs more adjustment |
| No need to reduce speed | Inconsistent amounts of friction applied |
| Utilize the Full Towing and Weight Capacity of your vehicle | Needs big socket for installation |
| Lifetime warranty | Tricky installation |
| Retains value on second-hand market |
Friction-based sway control hitches have a pivot point on the hitch ball, which is where the problem begins. These hitches only become effective at reducing sway when it starts to occur at high speeds. In cases where the force of the sway exceeds the friction coefficient, the trailer will begin to sway. To stop sway with friction, a significant amount of friction is required, which can also hinder the ability to take turns. Another issue with friction-based sway control hitches is the noise they can create. If you are unaware of this issue, you can watch this video for more information.
To better understand the differences between the ProPride 3P® Jim Hensley Hitch and friction-based sway control hitches, you can watch this video featuring Sean Woodruff, who explains the differences between the two.
The most effective way to prevent trailer sway is to eliminate it altogether. The ProPride 3P® Jim Hensley Hitch may be pricier than other options on the market, such as the Blue Ox SwayPro®, Equalizer®, Husky Center Line® TS, etc., but it is unparalleled in terms of safety. While these other hitches may offer more affordable options, they cannot match the long-term benefits of the ProPride 3P® Jim Hensley Hitch. In order to protect lives and prevent damage to your trailer, it is worth considering the investment in the ProPride 3P® Jim Hensley Hitch.
Click here for more information on where to buy the Jim Hensley Hitch.
Got questions? Email us at info@propridehitch.com or call us at (800) 960-4767.
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