Weight Distribution Recommendation for a 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser and 2,900 Pound Trailer

Question:

I have a 2012 Toyota FJ cruiser total towing capacity 4700 lbs vehicle weight is approx 4360 lbs. The travel trailer i will be towing is 17ft dry weight is 2900 lbs, tounge weight is 300 lbs. Do I need weight dist. hitch ? Is so what is a good one that does not weigh much.

asked by: S J

Expert Reply:

Anytime the trailer weight is at least 50 percent of the vehicle weight OR if the vehicle sags at the back with the trailer connected, you would benefit from a weight distribution system. To determine the correct system for your application you will need to know the total tongue weight.

The total tongue weight can be calculated by taking the tongue weight of the trailer, loaded and ready to tow, then add to that the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. I have included a link on determining trailer tongue weight for you.

With a tongue weight of 300 pounds, I recommend a system rated for 200 to 600 pounds tongue weight like # 49585. With this system you will just need to add a properly sized ball like # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch diameter or # A-90 for a 2 inch diameter.

Weight distribution systems are heavy because of the nature of what they do. They have to be solid steel to be able to handle the stresses involved. The spring bars and brackets are not all that heavy but the head where the ball attaches and the shank are the heaviest parts.

I have included a link to our FAQ article on weight distribution for you to view.

expert reply by: Michael H