Weight Distribution System For Hauling a Dump Trailer

Updated 10/02/2017 | Published 09/30/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Short-Arm Weight Distribution System with Shank - Trunnion Bar - 15,000 lbs GTW, 1,500 lbs TW

(33)

$416.98

2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-3/4" Long Shank - Chrome - 12,000 lbs

(2597)

$20.83

Curt TruTrack Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 15,000 lbs GTW, 1,500 lbs TW

(611)

$634.95

Question:

Hi, So I need to buy a weight distribution system for my big tex trailer model 14-LX 14 foot trailer with a 14,000 lb GVWR and 2-5/16" coupler. I was thinking Curt Short-Arm Weight Distribution System with Shank - Trunnion Bar - 15,000 lbs GTW, 1,500 lbs TW Item # C17333 Would that work? Thanks

asked by: Nab

Expert Reply:

In order to choose the best weight distribution hitch, you will first need to know your total tongue weight (TW), which is the tongue weight of your fully loaded and ready to go trailer plus the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your tow vehicle.

To determine TW you can use a scale such as the etrailer # e99044 or by using one of the methods outlined in the help article on determining TW I've linked for you. The ideal system would be one in which your TW would fall somewhere in the middle of the weight distribution system's tongue weight capacity.

The Curt Short-Arm Weight Distribution System # C17333 is for short tongue trailers and total tongue weights between 1,100 and 1,500 lbs. It would be a fit if your trailer had a short tongue and your total tongue weight was, for example, 1,250 lbs. This system requires a hitch ball with a 1-1/4" shank such as the 2-5/16" ball # 19286. Keep in mind this system does not provide sway control, which is something I highly recommend.

For a system that does provide anti-sway capabilities, I suggest looking at the Curt TruTrack Weight Distribution System # C17501, which is for total tongue weights between 1,000 lbs and 1,500 lbs. This system is for 2" hitch receivers, allows backing up while the system is in use, and comes with the 2-5/16" hitch ball you need.

I've provided links to video reviews of these systems, as well as a link to our page with each of your weight distribution systems for you to take a look at.