Weight Distribution and Sway Control Recommendation for a 30 Foot, 6,500 Pound Trailer

Question:

have a reese sc which worked great with a 4500lb trailer. upgraded to 30 ft 6500lb unit. bought the 800lb bars from you but have a sway problem. Hitch is set right. What would be the best hitch? Towing with silverado 2500hd.

asked by: Randy

Expert Reply:

When you upgraded the bars, you may have noticed some where on the system depending on how old it is. Replacing some of the other parts may be necessary if you notice some wear. I have included a link to the replacement parts for you to view.

If you wanted to go with a new system, I reocmmend going with a Reese Strait-Line system like the one you have referenced. A Trailer tongue weight is normally 10 to 15 percent of the gross trailer weight. That would put the tongue weight of a 6,500 pound trailer at 650 to 975 pounds.

You also have to add to that the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle to get the total tongue weight. Based on all of this information, I recommend a system that is rated for 600 to 1,200 pounds tongue weight like # RP66074 that you have referenced.

This system does not come with a shank, but you could use the one you currently have. I do recommend getting all new parts so there are no surprises. The system that comes with the shank is # RP66084. For a 2 inch diameter ball use # A-90 and for a 2-5/16 inch use # 19286. I have included a link to the installation details for you.

This system comes with built-in dual-cam sway control that proactively and aggressively resist the start of sway by forcing the vehicle and trailer to ride in straight line. You can also help to reduce sway by loading the trailer properly. Make sure to be in the 10 to 15 percent range of the gross trailer weight. Place heavier items on the bottom and center the load properly left to right.

expert reply by: Michael H