How Does Weight Distribution System Affect the Towing Capacities of Hitches for 2012 Nissan Armada
Updated 03/07/2017 | Published 03/06/2017
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Question:
I am looking to tow a 32foot travel trailer Keystone Bullet 287QBS with a 2012 Nissan Armada Platinum. I have too many kids to fit into a pickup. Max tongue weight is 900 lbs and the max trailer weight is 7500 lbs. I know towing this trailer is pushing the upper limits of what the Armada can tow. Does adding a weight distributing hitch transfer some of the weight to the front axle, decreasing the weight on the hitch ball and tongue? If so, is there an estimated amount or percentage of tongue weight? Thanks.
asked by: Zac
Expert Reply:
Weight distribution does transfer some of the tongue weight of the trailer up to the front axle. An exact figure isn't really available as our manufacturers won't get that specific, but if you look at the increased capacities of a trailer hitch when used with a WD system you can get a pretty good idea how the capacity is affected.
For example the Draw Tite hitch part # 75644 which is a fit for your 2012 Nissan Armada has a capacity of 6,000 trailer weight and 600 lbs tongue weight when not used with a WD system and then when used with a WD system the capacities increase to 10,000 lbs and 1,000 lbs tongue weight. The WD capacity fits your trailer's weights of 900 lbs tongue weight and 7,500 total trailer weight. You will need to check the owners manual and determine the vehicle's towing capacity as well and be sure not to exceed the lower of the two figures.
For a system that would work great with the trailer weight you listed the Strait Line system part # RP66084 would be a great option. It has a tongue weight range of 600-1,200 lbs and features the only sway control that works to fight sway before it starts.
For a 2 inch ball you would want part # A-90 and for a 2-5/16 inch ball # 19286.
