Upgrading your travel trailer setup doesn’t always require breaking the bank, especially when it comes to essential safety equipment like sway bars and weight distribution hitches. Like many RV owners, I was looking to enhance my towing experience and minimize trailer sway. Having previously used a Pro Series weight distribution system with 550lb bars, I knew I needed to upgrade to 1,000 lb bars for my new camper. While browsing E-Trailer for replacement bars, Camping World called to inform me my new trailer was ready for pickup, accelerating my timeline for finding a solution.
In a bit of a rush, I explored local options and discovered that Harbor Freight offered a complete weight distribution system under their “Haul Master” brand, equipped with 1,000 lb bars. The system looked remarkably similar to my existing Pro Series setup. Armed with a 20% off coupon, I decided to check it out, and purchased the Haul Master hitch for around $180 out the door.
Upon closer inspection and comparison, it became clear that the “Haul Master” hitch is virtually identical to the round bar Pro Series hitch. The shanks, bolts, and overall construction appeared to be the same, weld for weld. The only minor difference I observed was the absence of thread locking compound on the Haul Master bolts, a detail easily remedied.
Even Camping World, during the trailer pickup, installed the Haul Master system for me – a setup I later adjusted at home to my specific needs.
Side-by-side comparison of the Haul Master weight distribution hitch (left) and the Pro Series weight distribution hitch (right), highlighting their identical design for travel trailer owners seeking budget-friendly sway control solutions.
The surprise didn’t end there. I also purchased Haul Master sway bars, expecting a basic, functional product. To my surprise, they turned out to be the same as my older Husky sway bars! This interchangeability extends to the weight distribution bars as well. The 550 lb bars from my Pro Series system are compatible with the Haul Master head, and vice versa. This will be incredibly useful when I switch my Pro Series head to my car hauler, allowing me to use the 550 lb bars for lighter loads and easily swap to the 1,000 lb bars for heavier towing.
For RVers seeking a cost-effective Travel Trailer Sway Bar and weight distribution solution, especially those familiar with Pro Series or Husky products, Haul Master from Harbor Freight presents a compelling, budget-friendly alternative without compromising on compatibility or, seemingly, quality.
