Weight Distribution Recommendation for a Boat Trailer with Surge Brakes

Question:

I am concerned that this system will not work with my surge breaks? I have a boat trailer, 19 foot, Gross weight 2700 lbs.

asked by: Gil M

Expert Reply:

For a trailer with surge brakes, you will need a Reese SC system or an Eqaul-i-zer system that uses friction sway control. You will also need a pole tongue adapter, like # RP3280, for a Reese SC system, or # EQ95-01-5950 for an Equal-i-zer system. The pole tongue adapter provides frame rails for the weight distribution system to attach to.

To determine the best system for you, you will need to go by the tongue weight of the trailer loaded and ready to tow plus the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the towing vehicle. Tongue weight is typically 10 to 15 percent of gross trailer weight, normally on the light side for a boat trailer. That would put your tongue weight at about 270 to 405 pounds with nothing loaded behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle.

The Reese mini system is like an SC system and it can be used on a trailer with surge brakes. The sliding action of the spring bars will allow the coupler to actuate the brakes. I recommend going with a system that has a larger tongue weight capacity range because you have to account for gear, water, and other items in the trailer/boat.

I recommend the Reese SC system, # RP66151, which has a tongue weight capacity range of 200 to 600 pounds. It is surge brake compatible and comes with the required shank. You will just need a properly sized ball like # A-90 for a 2 inch or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch. I have included a link to the installation instructions and a link to our FAQ article on weight distribution for you.

expert reply by: Michael H