Stowing weight distribution hitch

I think I found a very workable solution!

First, the description, then pictures. I purchased a Ridgid 22" tool box from Home Depot.
http://www.homedepot.com/p/RIDGID-22-in-Pro-Tool-Box-Black-222570/205440481

Next, I cut 2" off the bottom of the shank. This serves two purposes. It keeps the bottom of the shank from dragging on the concrete of the driveway when I am pulling out or backing in with the trailer. Second, it makes it possible to fit in the tool box.

Third, I constructed a platform with bracing in the correct locations to stabilize the hitch head and support the shank. This also reinforces the bottom. The wood does not add too much weight.

Fourth, placed a plastic bag (13 Gallon kitchen trash bag size) over the wood and filled it with a can of Great Stuff Gaps & Cracks insulating foam sealant (red can). From a previous attempt, I knew I needed to have a spray bottle of water handy to spray the foam after it was in the bag so it would cure. Without doing that, the plastic seemed to keep it from curing. After spraying it, I folded the bag and smoothed it out over the wood supports, working quickly.

Fifth, I set the hitch in place and let the foam expand and form  custom-fitted padding for the hitch. I pushed in a couple of places to help the foam go to places where it was lacking, and to leave room for other parts I wanted to store in with the hitch head. Then I let it cure.

Now for the results:






It works quite well. The case has a seal, so it is water tight. It has places to lock it to our generator mount, or it could sit on the ground under the tongue locked there. It could also sit inside under the bed if the furnace is not being used. In any case, problem solved. The opening of our R-Pod's storage area won't get beat up as much, and my back will be better off also. It does not hurt that it also is good-looking.

The bars still go in the storage area underneath. They fit well there and I can maneuver them in and out without damaging the opening.

How about hanging it underneath the pod? You could use a couple of loops of chain and hang it out of the way and the weather. Use carabiners or something to make the chain removable while you're on the road. It might not be easy to do depending on the weight and size but, it would be cheap and simple. 

If you are not using the pod, why not just open the door and set it on a rug on the floor?  other wise just use a padlock thru one of the safety chains.  I also hook my generator to a safety chain with a padlock.  And a cover.  

we store ours under the pod and locked to the a frame with a cable lock.  I cover the ball with a split tennis ball that keeps the grease away from me and the rain off the ball. When we use the hitch, the tennis ball fits in a plastic zip lock  food box with snap lid stored in the cargo bay.
Vann