Correct Weight Distribution System Needed for an Outback 240URS with 7,500 lb GVWR

Products Featured in This Question

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

(2575)

$23.30

2" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000

(3753)

$18.74

Question:

I have this setup EAZ LIFT Camco Elite Weight Distributing Hitch Kit, Includes Distribution Hitch, Sway Control and 2-5/16inch Hitch Ball - 1,000 lbs Tongue Weight My dry trailer tongue weight is 513, and GVWR is 7500lbs, putting tongue at 750lbs which with all trailer cargo even adds up to that, and I have about 200lbs of cargo in the truck bed put at front of bed. Im worried loading my outback 240urs with a 600lb quad could put that over, even though the full 600lbs is distributed over the trailer axles and tongue as it is about in the middle of the hitch and axles. Without a truck scale, what is the best way to measure the tongue weight loaded, and Is it possible to use 1200lbs bars without changing the hitch? If I can in fact purchase them that way. Thank you

asked by: Richard K

Helpful Expert Reply:

If the GVWR of your Outback is 7,500 lbs and you are already at that prior to loading up your quad then you either need to leave some cargo behind or leave the quad behind. If the full 7,500 lbs that you are estimating includes the weight of the quad then you should be okay.

To measure your tongue weight (TW) you need to load your trailer up and us either a TW scale like part # 5780 or a method highlighted in the attached helpful article. Keep in mind that a properly loaded trailer will have a TW that is 10-15% of the loaded weight of the trailer. If you plan on loading up to the GVWR of 7,500 lbs this puts your TW range from 750 lbs - 1,125 lbs. If you are on the heavier end then your current weight distribution (WD) system, which is rated at 1,000 lbs, will not be effective.

We don't carry the EAZ-LIFT systems (as of August 2018) so if you need a heavier system I wouldn't know if you can change out your bars, but I can say that we do have the Reese Steadi-Flex # RP66561 which has a TW range of 700 lbs - 1,400 lbs which would be perfect for your towing setup. You will also need a hitch ball like part # A-90 or # 19286 as well.

expert reply by: Jon G