Installing a ProPride 3P® hitch might seem tricky at first. It’s actually designed for easy setup without drilling into your trailer frame.
You can install a strong, reliable anti-sway hitch that eliminates trailer sway while protecting your trailer’s structure. The ProPride 3P® uses patented Pivot Point Projection™ technology to give you smooth, stable towing and better weight distribution.
You’ll connect the hitch to your trailer’s coupler using an adjustable hitch bar that fits different setups and keeps things secure. With no extra holes to drill and a simple one-piece yoke design, you skip the usual hassle while upgrading your towing safety.
With clear instructions and the right tools, you’ll be ready to tow with confidence. This guide breaks down the process into easy steps so you can get your ProPride 3P® installed right and enjoy better control on the road.
To install the ProPride 3P® hitch properly, it helps to know what makes it different from other hitches. Gather the right tools and parts before you start.
Safety matters most, so follow key precautions during installation.
The ProPride 3P® uses Pivot Point Projection™ technology. This moves the trailer's virtual pivot point forward, close to your trailer’s rear axle.
The result is a big reduction in trailer sway, much better than friction-based hitches. This hitch has a one-piece yoke that replaces unreliable strut bars and a top-mounted jack system for better weight distribution.
It fits your trailer without drilling into the frame, keeping the frame strong. You get an adjustable offset hitch bar, so if your trailer changes, your hitch can adapt.
Designed by Jim Hensley, the ProPride 3P® outperforms other hitches like the Hensley Arrow® and Blue Ox®. It’s built for safety and smooth towing.
Before you begin installation, gather these parts and tools:
Having these tools ready will speed up the installation. They help you tighten bolts to the exact specifications.
The hitch kit comes almost complete, so you won’t need extra parts other than your trailer’s coupler and a compatible towing vehicle.
Safety during installation is vital. Always wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from sharp edges and heavy parts.
Make sure your trailer and vehicle are parked on a level, stable surface. Never drill into the trailer frame.
The ProPride 3P® avoids drilling because holes weaken the frame. Use the included frame brackets and hardware.
Check all bolts and nuts twice before towing. Follow ProPride’s torque specs exactly.
Keep children and pets away from the hitch area while working. Use wheel chocks on your trailer to prevent movement during installation.
Before you install the ProPride 3P® hitch, make sure you have the right setup and tools ready. Pick the best spot on your tow vehicle, check your trailer and vehicle condition, and confirm all parts are on hand.
Select a mounting spot close to the rear axle of your tow vehicle. This is where the ProPride 3P® hitch’s Pivot Point Projection™ works best to reduce trailer sway.
Mounting too far from this point can affect stability. The hitch should attach securely to your vehicle frame using the provided frame bracket and hardware.
Check that the area is free from rust or damage. Make sure the trailer coupler, where the hitch connects, is accessible and in good condition.
If your tow vehicle has adjustable height options, measure the distance between the rear axle and the hitch spot. The ProPride 3P® offers adjustable offset hitch bars to match tow heights.
Before installing the hitch, inspect your tow vehicle and trailer. Look closely at the vehicle’s rear axle area for cracks, rust, or damage.
Check the trailer coupler for wear or loose parts. Verify your trailer’s tongue weight matches the hitch’s capacity.
The ProPride 3P® hitch works best when weight distribution is within recommended limits. Uneven or excessive weight can reduce sway control performance.
Inspect the trailer’s safety chains and wiring connectors. Clean and lubricate the coupler if necessary.
Once you have your ProPride 3P® hitch kit, open the box carefully. Check all parts using the included inventory list.
Key components include:
Make sure no parts are missing or damaged. The adjustable hitch bar lets you match your vehicle and trailer heights.
Keep any extra hardware for future adjustments. Having all components ready makes the installation smoother.
Before you start, make sure the hitch components are clean and undamaged. Focus on positioning the hitch head properly, securing the main frame bracket tightly to the trailer, and adjusting the height and level to match your tow vehicle.
Position the ProPride 3P® hitch head so it fits smoothly with your trailer’s coupler. The hitch head must be centered and square for proper sway control.
Use the two 3/4" thick control links to extend the pivot point near the tow vehicle’s rear axle. This placement shifts sway forces away from the hitch ball.
Check that the hitch bar wedges and hitch box angle match the tow vehicle’s hitch receiver. This helps you avoid the bar sticking during hitching and unhitching.
Attach the frame bracket firmly to the trailer’s frame without drilling. The ProPride 3P® uses a bolt-on system designed to clamp securely and avoid damage to your trailer.
Tighten all bolts evenly. Aim for manufacturer-recommended torque specs.
Verify that the one-piece yoke is aligned vertically. This ensures stable spring bar operation.
With the hitch secured, adjust the hitch bar height to match your tow vehicle’s height. The bar should be level side to side.
Use the ProPride’s adjustable offset hitch bar to fine-tune alignment and compatibility with different trailer models. Check the entire assembly for a level, flat setup.
Proper height and level reduce wear and improve towing stability.
Properly installing the weight distribution bars is key to making sure your ProPride 3P® hitch works safely and smoothly. You'll connect the yoke and spring bars first, then set the correct tension to balance your trailer and tow vehicle.
Slide the spring bars into the yoke slots. The ProPride 3P® uses a one-piece yoke, so you won’t need extra strut bars.
Make sure each spring bar locks securely into place with the pin or clip provided. Next, connect the spring bars to the frame brackets on your trailer.
These brackets are mounted on the trailer frame and hold the bars under tension. Use the control links to attach the spring bars to the brackets.
The connection should be firm but allow enough movement to absorb road shocks. Double-check that all connections are tight and that the spring bars are well seated in both the yoke and frame brackets.
This setup spreads the tongue weight between your truck and trailer axles.
After connecting the components, set the spring bar tension correctly. Lower your trailer jack so the trailer and tow vehicle are level.
Use the adjustable features on the spring bars or control links to tighten the bars until they provide firm resistance. You want enough tension to support the tongue weight but not so much that the bars are overstretched.
Too little tension will let sway through, and too much can stress your vehicle frame or hitch. Adjust the tension gradually, testing by pulling the trailer forward and checking for smooth movement.
Confirm that the hitch head stays level during towing. A properly tensioned ProPride 3P® hitch maintains the virtual pivot point.
When mounting the sway control parts of your ProPride 3P® hitch, precision and alignment are key. You will attach the pivot point in the right spot on your tow vehicle and then align the linkage assembly carefully.
Locate the frame bracket near the rear axle of your tow vehicle. The ProPride 3P® uses Pivot Point Projection™ technology, which moves the pivot point forward for better sway control.
Use the provided hardware to secure the pivot point bracket firmly to your vehicle frame. Tighten the bolts to the torque specs in the instructions.
The pivot point must be stable and strong because it takes the forces that normally cause sway. Check that the bracket is level and not bent.
A misaligned pivot point will reduce performance and could damage your setup.
Once the pivot point is set, attach the two 3/4" thick control links to it. These links connect the pivot point to the hitch head on the trailer coupler.
Keep these links parallel to the ground when the trailer is on level ground. This ensures the sway control works evenly on both sides.
Adjust the length of the adjustable links if needed for a perfect fit. Secure all connection points with the included pins and clips.
Double-check that the linkage moves smoothly but without any slack. Proper alignment of these links helps project the trailer forces to the pivot point.
To connect the ProPride 3P® hitch, secure the hitch pin correctly, set up the wiring for trailer lights, and complete safety checks. Each step ensures your setup is solid and prevents problems on the road.
Align the hitch head with your tow vehicle's receiver. Slide the adjustable hitch bar into the receiver tube carefully.
Insert the hitch pin fully through both the hitch bar and the receiver. The pin must lock securely to avoid any movement.
Attach the safety clip or lock pin on the opposite side to prevent the hitch pin from sliding out during travel. Check that the hitch is properly centered with no gaps.
Tighten any included bolts or fasteners on the frame bracket if your vehicle’s model requires it.
Connect the trailer plug to your vehicle’s wiring harness. Inspect all wiring for wear or loose connections.
Replace frayed wires before towing. Use dielectric grease on connectors to prevent corrosion.
Secure wiring away from moving parts or hot surfaces with zip ties. Test all lights – brake lights, turn signals, and running lights – before driving.
Confirm the trailer lights respond correctly to your vehicle’s controls.
Before driving, push and pull the hitch connection to verify it is locked tight. There should be no side-to-side or up-and-down play.
Confirm the ProPride 3P® hitch head is level and the yoke is properly seated. Check tire pressure on both vehicle and trailer.
Make sure safety chains are crossed under the hitch and firmly attached. Double-check your load is balanced and secured.
Once your ProPride 3P® hitch is mounted, confirm every connection is secure and correctly set. Testing how your trailer tows on the road will help you fine-tune adjustments for the safest, most stable ride.
Check each hitch component closely. Make sure the hitch head is firmly seated on the ball and locked in place.
The frame bracket should be tightly bolted to your tow vehicle’s frame, with no loose hardware. Inspect the adjustable offset hitch bar to confirm it matches your tow height and trailer height.
A correct height alignment will prevent unwanted leverage that causes sway. Also, check that the one-piece yoke is properly attached.
Look for any signs of wear or gaps that might affect performance. All bolts should be torqued according to ProPride’s specifications.
Tighten any loose parts but avoid over-tightening, which could damage components.
Take your rig on a short drive to test towing stability. Start at slow speeds to feel how the trailer responds to turns, acceleration, and braking.
Pay close attention for any side-to-side trailer movement. If you notice sway or looseness, adjust the offset hitch bar height or reposition the trailer coupler on the hitch ball.
Small changes can improve towing stability. Make sure the trailer tongue weight is correct; uneven weight can cause sway even with the ProPride 3P®.
During your test, listen for unusual noises or binding in the yoke or control links. These signs mean further adjustment or inspection is needed before longer trips.
Repeat tests after every adjustment to confirm improvements.
Keep your ProPride 3P® hitch in top shape with regular lubrication, checking parts for wear, and preparing it for storage. These steps protect your investment and help ensure safe and smooth towing.
Lubricate the hitch components regularly to keep them moving freely and prevent rust. Focus on the pivot points, hitch box, and link connections.
Use a high-quality grease for heavy-duty applications. Apply it to pivot bushings, hitch bar wedges, and control link fasteners.
Clean these areas with a cloth before greasing to help the grease stick and remove dirt. Avoid over-greasing, which attracts grime and causes buildup.
Wipe off excess grease to keep parts clean. Lubricate your hitch every few hundred miles or after towing in wet or dusty conditions.
Check your ProPride 3P® hitch regularly for signs of wear or damage. Inspect the hitch box and head for cracks or bending.
Look at link arms and pivot bushings for looseness or visible wear. Check fasteners for loosening or corrosion.
Watch for rust spots or worn bushings that could affect sway control. Replace any worn parts promptly to maintain towing stability.
Tighten all bolts to manufacturer specs using a torque wrench. This keeps your hitch secure and performing as designed.
Before storing your hitch for an extended period, clean it thoroughly to remove dirt, grease, and moisture. This helps prevent rust and corrosion.
Apply a light coat of protective grease on all metal contact points, especially pivot links and hitch bar wedges. Wrap the hitch in a breathable cover or cloth to protect it from dust while allowing moisture to escape.
Store the hitch in a dry, temperature-controlled place if possible. Avoid leaving it outside in harsh weather or directly on concrete floors.
When you take it out of storage, inspect and lubricate it before towing again to restore full performance and safety.
When you install your ProPride 3P® hitch, you might run into a few common problems. These usually involve alignment, unusual sounds or binding, and towing behavior that feels off.
Address these issues quickly for a safe and smooth towing experience.
Alignment is key for the ProPride 3P® to work correctly. If your hitch parts don’t line up, hitching or unhitching becomes harder.
Check that the hitch box and hitch bar are parallel and properly seated. If the hitch bar sticks or won’t slide smoothly, make sure the bar wedges and hitch box are at the right angle.
ProPride’s design uses a greater wedge angle to avoid binding, so sticking often means misalignment. Use the adjustable offset hitch bar to fine-tune your setup.
Slight repositioning can improve the fit and reduce stress on the hitch links. Tighten all bolts securely but avoid over-tightening, which can cause binding or damage.
If you hear clunking or feel binding when moving your trailer, inspect all pivot points. The ProPride 3P® uses thick, durable links that pivot near your tow vehicle’s rear axle for smooth motion.
Make sure all control links and fasteners are lubricated and clean. Lack of lubrication causes friction, leading to noise and binding.
Check the spring bars and one-piece yoke for any signs of wear or improper fit. If noise continues, verify the connections are tight but not over-tightened.
If your trailer feels unstable or behaves oddly despite correct installation, review your weight distribution setup. The ProPride 3P® relies on proper weight distribution with its top-mounted jacks and virtual pivot point.
Confirm that your trailer tongue weight matches ProPride’s recommended range. Too little or too much weight affects sway control.
Double-check your hitch head angle and link length. Adjusting the pivot point forward or backward can improve towing stability.
This section covers the key details you need to get your ProPride 3P® hitch set up correctly. You’ll find clear answers for a smooth installation and lasting performance.
You’ll need basic hand tools, including a torque wrench, socket set, and possibly a breaker bar for tightening bolts. Have a level to check alignment and safety glasses for protection.
Start by mounting the frame bracket on your tow vehicle without drilling. Attach the hitch box and slide the adjustable offset hitch bar into place.
Check that everything is aligned before tightening bolts to the recommended specs. Always follow the included manual for specific vehicle adjustments.
Torque specifications are in the installation manual included with your hitch. Use the manual’s guidelines on bolt torque values for accurate and safe installation.
Yes, ProPride provides helpful installation videos on their official website. These videos walk you through the steps and show how the Pivot Point Projection™ technology works during setup.
If the hitch isn’t aligning properly, double-check the frame bracket placement and ensure all bolts are loose enough to allow adjustment. If the hitch bar sticks, confirm the angle between the hitch box and bar is correct.
Contact ProPride customer support for further help if needed.
Regularly check all bolts for tightness, especially after your first few tows. Keep the hitch components clean and lightly lubricated.
Inspect the yoke and hitch head for wear. Remove rust or dirt from the adjustable offset hitch bar to maintain smooth operation.