Recommendation For a Weight Distribution System on a 2002 Mercedes ML320 Towing a 4,260-Lb Trailer
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Question:
2002 Mercedes ML320 Hitch: 5000 TW 500 Trailer actual WT: 4,260 TW: 480 Which WD/SW unit is best? Is the 100lbs of WD unit not a factor in determining the TW? Thanks
asked by: Steve H
Expert Reply:
A weight distribution system is a good idea any time you are towing a trailer that is at least 50 percent of the tow vehicle weight. You will want to check the hitch on your 2002 Mercedes ML320 to make sure it will accept a weight distribution system.
To choose a weight distribution system you will need a system that has a tongue weight capacity range that encompasses the trailer tongue weight loaded and ready to tow, plus the weight of any gear in the tow vehicle, behind the rear axle. Since the weight distribution system you choose will have a tongue weight range, the weight of the system will be taken into consideration with that tongue weight range. I am including a link to a FAQ page on weight distribution.
With the gross trailer weight rating of your trailer at 4,260 lbs, the tongue weight range of 10 to15 per cent would be 426 lbs to 639 lbs. For that tongue weight range I would recommend the Reese Strait-Line Weight Distribution with Sway Control, part # RP66083. This system has a tongue weight range of 400 to 800 lbs and will include the Dual-Cam sway control. This sway control is a proactive system that will stop trailer sway before it has a chance to start. I am including a link to the installation instructions on the Reese system.
The only other part you will need to complete the weight distribution system is the Curt 2 Inch Hitch Ball, part # A-90.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Strait-Line Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control - Trunnion Bar - 8,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Trunnion Bar
- Fits 3 Inch Frame
- Fits 4 Inch Frame
- Fits 5 Inch Frame
- Includes Shank
- Top-Mount
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 500 lbs
- 600 lbs
- 700 lbs
- Reese
more information >
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