Question:
Im purchasing a 21-ft tandem axle travel trailer with a GVWR of 4770 lbs and a brochure listed Tongue Weight of 370 lbs. The actual trailer Dry Weight is 3583 lbs and will have a loaded weight of at least 4200 lbs. Assuming a 15 ratio for tongue weight from trailer weight that would mean a Tongue Weight of about 630 lbs. My question is would the 1000/10,000 Equalizer Hitch be too much for this setup? Would I have any issues adjusting the tension? Would it be too rigid for my tow vehicle to manage? Thanks
asked by: Curtis L
Expert Reply:
If your fully loaded weights are close to what you listed, the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System, # EQ90-00-1000, would be an excellent choice for your setup.
The spring bars in this system are rated to handle tongue weights from 500 to 1000 lbs and when you add the weight of the weight distribution system components and any weight you will be loading behind the rear axle of your truck, your tongue weight is going to end up somewhere right in the middle of that tongue weight range which is ideal and would not be too rigid for your vehicle. Another good thing about going with this system is that, if you upgrade to a slightly larger trailer in the future, it has room to grow with you.
You should make sure that you do not exceed the weight capacities of your tow vehicle or the hitch on your tow vehicle.
When adjusting the spring bar tension on the Equal-i-zer system, a pin and washers are used to change the angle of the hitch ball and spring bar arms with the weight distribution head. Angling the head away from the rear of the vehicle increases spring bar tension and angling it toward the vehicle decreases the tension. Once you have the proper amount of spring bar tension figured out for your trailer, see instructions linked for you, the adjustment will stay the same as long as the tongue weight of the trailer does not change drastically.
Attaching the spring bars can be made much easier by using the trailer jack to lift the tongue of the trailer and the rear of the vehicle at the same time. This allows the spring bars to be easily swung up into position.
expert reply by: Bob G

Products Referenced in This Question
2-5/16" Hitch Ball for Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Systems - 10,000 lbs
Product Summary:
Weight Distribution
Replacement Parts
Product Specs:
Sway Control Parts
Ball
Sway Bracket Jackets for Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Systems - Qty 2
Product Summary:
Weight Distribution
Replacement Parts
Product Specs:
Sway Control Parts
Hardware
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 10,000 lbs GTW, 1,000 lbs TW
Product Summary:
WD With Sway Control
Electric Brake Compatible
Surge Brake Compatible
700 lbs
800 lbs
900 lbs
4-Point Friction
Trunnion-Style Bars
Product Specs:
Fits 2 Inch Hitch
Includes Shank
Up to 10000 lbs GTW
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