Lets try this one again. Hensley install done today.

[harper223]

To keep things on track, I wanted to mention how the Hensley install went today. Last night I read through the directions and it didn't look to complicated. I figured it would take about 2-3 hrs total. It took 2 hrs to install today with the help of a med school buddy of mine, and here is what we came across:

1) Don't install one of these when you are recovering from brochiolitis. It makes everything heavier.
2) I had to move the plate that supports the 2 propane tanks forward about 1 inch to allow for the installation of the A-frame brackets. These brackets are bolted in and torqued to 45 ft lbs.
3) I needed extensions for both the chains and the brake cable. These were already in the box, so it took about 5 minutes for that.
4) Backing the stinger into the hitch assembly I have heard, is accomplished on a rather large learning curve. My Tundra came with a backup camera in the tailgate latch. I guess I got lucky because I got it in on the first try.
5) If you follow the directions its a pretty easy install. The spring bars needed to be adjusted once on the way home. The rig from front to back was dead level.
6) We had moderate winds today for West Texas ,10-15mph. I couldn't feel them. This is an awesome hitch and I'm glad I got one. In fact, we installed it at the dealer because the trailer is getting some warranty work done on it, and the service manager came over and mentioned he had some customers with HA's and they swore by them.
7) I was an idiot and forgot to take pictures. My apologies. I will post some pics on my website and I hope to have a cool travel website like ol' Geodude up and running soon.

Let me know if anyone has questions or if I left something out. One more thing: I installed a 45' long x 30' wide inlet in our backyard from the alley so I could back my TT in. I didnt want it in storage plus I installed full hookups so I could study in it (aka: there is a Playstation 3 in there). Backing a 35' long TT in with this new hitch was more challenging. I just don't know why yet. I'll think about it. Here is a picture of the inlet (its an old pic before the HA install)

http://i38.tinypic.com/14k9oaw.jpg

Moderator note: Image converted to link because it exceeded 800x600

[chips994]

I made a 2 X 2 X18" block of pine with wedges around the middle, similar to the Hensley bar. I put it in Hensley and when backing up to hook up, I can see if I'm in line & my height & slope are similar. When I get close, I remove the wood & back into the Hensley. Several of us have made 1 of these now. You will love towing with the Hensley.

[Geodude]

Congrats! You'll love towing with such a great hitch.

[Flyguy108]

Has anyone heard of the "Pro Pride 3P" hitch which is supposed to be an improved Hensley? Here’s the link: http://www.propridehitch.com/3P_trailer_hitch.php?item_id=1 any comments on this?

[Tankerhank]

I have read on them some but that is about it, never used one.

[JD and Beastlet]

Originally Posted by Flyguy108

Has anyone heard of the "Pro Pride 3P" hitch which is supposed to be an improved Hensley? Here’s the link: http://www.propridehitch.com/3P_trailer_hitch.php?item_id=1 any comments on this?

I have. In fact, I have one.



I installed it myself this May and have towed 3800 km (2400 mi) over the spring, summer and fall. I understand that it tows exactly like a Hensley but contains some design improvements. At any rate, it's amazing.

I documented the entire installation in photographs.

[Flyguy108]

Wow! It looks like the assembly of a moon rocket, nice looking hitch though, I found a "YouTube" video on the operation of it in eight parts, did you do this video? Here's the link to it: YouTube - ProPride 3P hitch - video #1 this is the first part and then you can go through the next seven parts in sequential order.

[JD and Beastlet]

The install did take some time but wasn't overly complicated. As usual for me I read the instructions repeatedly before tackling it and the few things I was unsure of I straightened out with Sean Woodruff at ProPride.

And yep, I did see those videos... they're posted over at MyRVTalk (entry #54... the 4th post on the 6th page) by busch2Fan.

Hitching up with the 3P is no more difficult than with a regular WDH. There's a learning curve, but after a few cycles it's all good.

[TundraBay]

. . . . . another good reason to tow a 5th wheel.

[Tankerhank]

You betcha!! Eh?