Weight Distribution Recommendation for a 3,800 Pound Trailer and 2007 Dodge Ram 1500

Question:

I am purchasing a camper with a Dry Hitch Weight of 306 lb Dry Ship Weight of 2,654 lb. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of 3,806 lb Cargo Carrying Capacity of 1,152 lb Exterior Length of 17 ft. 9 in. Exterior Height of 9 ft. 6 in Exterior Width of 79 in. Ill be towing with a 2007 Ram 1500 4wd quad cab. The dealer says I should have a weight distribution hitch..... Do I really need a weight distribution hitch and if so what is your recommendation? Thanks for your help.

asked by: Scott S

Expert Reply:

A weight distribution system is a good idea any time you are towing a trailer that is at least 50 percent of the tow vehicle weight, if you are experiencing rear end sag on the tow vehicle, or if you experience trailer sway. I think that with your trailer, you would benefit from a weight distribution system.

You will need a system that has a tongue weight capacity range that encompasses the trailer tongue weight loaded and ready to tow plus the weight of any gear in the truck bed behind the rear axle. If we go by 3,806 pounds and 10 to 15 percent of this as tongue weight, you are looking at 380 pounds to 570 pounds. These estimates are on the high side (assuming the trailer is loaded to the max) so I think you would be fine going with a system rated for 200 to 600 pounds tongue weight.

One very economical system would be the Pro Series RB2 Round Bar Weight Distribution Kit, # 49568. This kit comes with a shank so you will just need a properly sized ball, # 19286 (2-5/16 inch diameter) or # A-90 (2 inch diameter). I have included a link to the installation details and a link to our FAQ article on weight distribution for you.

expert reply by: Michael H