Unfortunately, lengthening the shank to move the ball back has some very undesirable side effects.
By moving the ball farther away from your vehicle axle, you are substantially increasing the possibility of significant trailer sway. That's why semi-trucks and long 5th wheels have their trailer pivot points over or in front of the rear axle.
Additionally, a longer shank will also put more stress on the vehicle receiver as well as the shank itself.
There are any instances where people actually re-drill their shank to move it closer to the bumper for better handling.
Two hitches which provide enough clearance to address your problem is the ProPride and Hensley but they are more expensive than an Equalizer or any of the similar weight distribution hitches.
Unfortunately, lengthening the shank to move the ball back has some very undesirable side effects.
By moving the ball farther away from your vehicle axle, you are substantially increasing the possibility of significant trailer sway. That's why semi-trucks and long 5th wheels have their trailer pivot points over or in front of the rear axle.
Additionally, a longer shank will also put more stress on the vehicle receiver as well as the shank itself.
There are any instances where people actually re-drill their shank to move it closer to the bumper for better handling.
Two hitches which provide enough clearance to address your problem is the ProPride and Hensley but they are more expensive than an Equalizer or any of the similar weight distribution hitches.
Greg
Thanks for your reply Greg. I've purchased and 18" shank from Equalizer, the maker of my hitch. My rear door now clears by 1" without changing the jack. The shank is approved for use on my hitch, so I think it will be okay. I will test it out for potential sway, however. Best, Bruce