Can Weight Distribution System Be Used on Aluminum Trailer Frame

Question:

curt 17500 hitch hooking too atc aluminum frame trailer 7 incch beam brckets only fit 6 inch is there ahitch that eill work on these atc trailers or do imake brackets

asked by: BILL B

Expert Reply:

Not all aluminum trailer frames are strong enough for use with a steel weight distribution (WD) system. It is possible that the stronger steel WD components could put too much stress on the frame. If your trailer has an aluminum frame you'll first want to check with the manufacturer.

Locate your trailer's VIN, model number and manufacturer information and contact the maker. They will ask you about your typical weight loads and other details about your towing application. They will be able to advise you if you can use WD on your particular trailer without risk of twisting it's frame. You may also need a pole tongue adapter like # RP58393 if your frame is an I-beam; the adapter provides a spot to mount the WD lift springs.

If you can use WD, you'll want to select a system based on your total effective tongue weight (TW). This is the combined total of the fully loaded trailer's actual measured TW plus that of anything in the truck bed that sits behind the rear axle, such as a generator or loaded cooler. We offer a scale from etrailer, part # e99044, that makes it easier to measure your loaded trailer's TW. The linked article on TW includes other methods for measuring TW.

All WD systems have an effective operating range. The Curt TruTrack # C17500 works with a TW range from 800-1000-lbs. Ideally your total TW load will fall right in the middle of the operating range for the system. If rated too low, the system won't be able to shift TW forward onto the tow vehicle's front axle; if rated too high it might result in jumpy or erratic handling from the trailer. This system would be perfect for a 900-lb TW.

The linked article on weight distribution will give you broad background on these systems and make it easier to select an appropriate one.