Is the Hype Real? Progress MFG Equal I Zer 2″ Adjustable Shank 3″ Drop 7″ Rise 18″ Length Reviewed
As someone who spends a significant amount of time towing, from hauling equipment to the workshop to moving everything from a boat to a small camper, the stability and control of my trailer is paramount. Recently, I found myself wrestling with an uneven setup on my hitch, leading to a concerning amount of sway on the highway. It was a situation that demanded a solution, and after a bit of research, my attention landed on the Progress MFG Equal I Zer 2″ Adjustable Shank 3″ Drop 7″ Rise 18″ Length. This piece of equipment isn’t just an accessory; it’s the critical link that ensures a safe and comfortable towing experience, especially when dealing with varied trailer and vehicle heights. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid, no-nonsense engineering; the heft and finish suggested a product built to withstand the rigors of frequent use. I had briefly considered some less specialized, more generic hitches, but the specific adjustability offered by this model, promising to bridge a significant height difference, felt like the precise answer to my current towing woes. There was an immediate sense of relief, a feeling that this might indeed be the missing piece to reclaim confident towing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Progress MFG Equal I Zer 2″ Adjustable Shank 3″ Drop 7″ Rise 18″ Length to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing grounds for the Progress MFG adjustable shank were on a familiar stretch of highway, transitioning from local roads to higher speeds. I installed it to connect my rather tall cargo trailer to my slightly lower-profile truck. The process of adjusting the shank to the correct height was straightforward; finding the right pin holes took only a few minutes.
During this first outing, I deliberately encountered some slightly uneven road surfaces and a few mild crosswinds. The difference was immediately noticeable. The typical unsettling sway that I had grown accustomed to was significantly reduced, if not entirely eliminated.
This adjustable shank was remarkably intuitive. There was no complex calibration or lengthy setup guide required beyond ensuring the hitch pin was properly seated.
The only minor surprise was the sheer length of the shank itself, which felt substantial but ultimately proved necessary for bridging the considerable height discrepancy between my tow vehicle and trailer. It performed flawlessly, providing a stable connection without any play or looseness.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the past several months, this shank has become a permanent fixture on my towing setup. I’ve used it for everything from hauling lumber from the home improvement store to transporting my ATVs to a weekend off-road excursion. It has seen daily use in varying weather conditions, including rain and a brief stint with light frost, and has held up admirably.
There are absolutely no signs of premature wear or tear. The powder coating remains intact, and the adjustment holes show no excessive elongation or deformation despite numerous pin changes.
Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove road grime and an occasional application of grease to the receiver tube are all it requires. I make sure to check the pin and its clip regularly, but that’s standard practice for any towing accessory.
Compared to the basic, fixed-height shanks I’ve used in the past, this Progress MFG model is in a different league. While budget options often suffice for minor height differences, they lack the versatility and robust build quality that this adjustable shank offers. It genuinely feels like a long-term investment.
Breaking Down the Features of Progress MFG Equal I Zer 2″ Adjustable Shank 3″ Drop 7″ Rise 18″ Length
Specifications
The Progress MFG Equal I Zer 2″ Adjustable Shank 3″ Drop 7″ Rise 18″ Length is engineered for serious towing needs. It features a 2-inch shank that fits standard 2″ or 2-1/2″ receiver tubes, ensuring broad compatibility with most trucks and SUVs. This model offers an impressive adjustment range, with options for a 3-inch drop or a 7-inch rise, allowing for precise leveling of diverse trailer and vehicle combinations.
The substantial 18-inch length of the shank provides ample room for achieving the perfect hitch height and can also accommodate longer trailer tongues. This adjustability is critical; it ensures that the trailer tows level, which is fundamental for stability and preventing trailer frame stress or body damage. The robust construction is evident, promising durability under significant towing loads.
Performance & Functionality
This adjustable shank performs its primary duty of leveling the hitch setup exceptionally well. Its ability to bridge significant height differences between a tow vehicle and trailer is its standout feature. The shank effectively minimizes the tendency for trailers to sway or sag by ensuring a horizontal towing posture.
The main strength lies in its versatility; it can adapt to a wide array of vehicle and trailer combinations, making it a one-size-fits-many solution. A minor point for consideration might be its substantial length, which, while beneficial for height adjustment, could potentially add a slight amount of leverage to the hitch system. However, for its intended purpose of correcting significant height disparities, this is a necessary trade-off.
Design & Ergonomics
The Progress MFG Equal I Zer 2″ Adjustable Shank 3″ Drop 7″ Rise 18″ Length boasts a robust, utilitarian design. It’s constructed from what appears to be high-strength steel, likely with a durable black powder coat finish that resists corrosion and chipping. The multiple, clearly defined adjustment holes are precisely drilled, allowing for secure pin insertion and a tight fit.
Its ergonomics are centered around functionality. While not designed for aesthetic appeal, the clean lines and substantial build inspire confidence. The process of adjusting the height, while requiring manual effort to insert and remove the hitch pin, is straightforward and doesn’t present any significant usability challenges.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on its construction and my experience, this shank is built for the long haul. The thick steel and the resilient powder coating suggest it will withstand years of use without significant degradation. It’s designed to be exposed to the elements and the stresses of towing, and it shows no signs of faltering.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A periodic application of grease to the section that inserts into the receiver hitch tube will prevent seizing and ensure smooth adjustments. Checking the hitch pin and clip for wear is standard, but the shank itself requires little more than occasional cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The primary “accessory” for this shank is, of course, a compatible hitch ball mount and tow ball assembly. The shank itself is designed to accept standard 2-inch receiver inserts, offering broad compatibility with various hitch setups. Progress MFG likely designs this to work seamlessly with their own Equal-I-Zer sway control hitches, but its standard 2-inch interface means it can be used with many other aftermarket components.
There are no built-in electronic features or complex mechanisms; its customization lies in its adjustable height positions. This is its core function, allowing you to dial in the perfect level for your tow vehicle and trailer combination.
Pros and Cons of Progress MFG Equal I Zer 2″ Adjustable Shank 3″ Drop 7″ Rise 18″ Length
Pros
- Exceptional Height Adjustability: Offers both a 3-inch drop and a 7-inch rise, catering to a vast range of tow vehicle and trailer height differences.
- Robust Construction: Built from heavy-duty steel with a durable black powder coat finish, promising excellent longevity and resistance to wear.
- Broad Receiver Compatibility: Designed to fit standard 2-inch or 2-1/2-inch receiver tubes, making it versatile for many trucks and SUVs.
- Significant Length: The 18-inch length provides ample clearance and adjustability for complex hitch setups.
- Enhances Towing Stability: By allowing for a level trailer, it significantly reduces sway and improves overall towing safety and comfort.
Cons
- Substantial Size: Its considerable length can be a minor consideration for storage when not in use.
- Requires Manual Adjustment: Changing the drop or rise requires manual removal and re-insertion of the hitch pin, which can be stiff at times.
Who Should Buy Progress MFG Equal I Zer 2″ Adjustable Shank 3″ Drop 7″ Rise 18″ Length?
This adjustable shank is an ideal solution for anyone experiencing towing issues due to significant height differences between their tow vehicle and trailer. It’s perfect for those who frequently switch between trailers of varying heights or for individuals who own a truck with a lifted suspension or a trailer with a particularly low or high tongue. If you’re towing a boat, a camper, or any substantial load and notice instability or an unlevel hitch, this product is designed for you.
Anyone with a standard pickup truck or SUV looking to achieve a perfectly level trailer setup will benefit greatly. This shank is also a strong contender for users who prioritize safety and stability above all else.
Those who require an ultra-compact towing accessory for frequent on-and-off installation might want to consider its size. However, for its intended purpose of providing critical hitch adjustment, its length is a necessary feature. Essential complementary items would include a robust hitch pin and clip, and potentially some hitch lubricant for easier pin insertion.
Conclusion on Progress MFG Equal I Zer 2″ Drop 7″ Rise 18″ Length
The Progress MFG Equal I Zer 2″ Adjustable Shank 3″ Drop 7″ Rise 18″ Length is a well-engineered and highly effective piece of towing equipment. Its ability to precisely bridge significant height differences between vehicles and trailers is its greatest strength, directly contributing to a safer and more stable towing experience. The robust build quality inspires confidence, suggesting this shank will provide reliable service for many years of towing.
At $184.99, the price point reflects its specialized functionality and durable construction. For anyone struggling with an unlevel hitch or experiencing excessive trailer sway due to height disparities, the investment is unequivocally justified by the improvement in safety and peace of mind. I would absolutely recommend this adjustable shank to any serious tower facing these challenges. It’s a solid solution that delivers on its promise, making towing significantly more manageable and enjoyable.