Does Truck Payload Count as Tongue Weight on Trailer Hitch

Published 08/15/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Reese Weight Distribution System - No Shank - Trunnion Bar - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW

(62)

$487.68

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

(2602)

$22.87

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

(3802)

$19.92

Reese Weight Dist Shank - 12-1/4" Long - 2" Drop to 6-1/2" Rise - 1,500 lbs TW

(63)

$162.69

Question:

My tow rating is 8800 lbs. My payload rating is 1466. My trailer dry weight is 5300 lbs. and tongue weight is 590 lbs. I also have a cap on my truck and other accessories that add 250 lbs. When all the numbers are crunched, Im over my payload rating. Will a weight distributing hitch increase the payload rating to a point where Im safe or have I exceeded the ratings of my truck?

asked by: Bryan H

Expert Reply:

This is a really good question, but the short answer is you are fine and not above the capacity.

So payload is not the same as tongue weight capacity so you don't have to take one and add it to the other, and also with weight distribution you have to factor the weight behind the rear axle of the truck as tongue weight when picking out a system, but that extra weight does not really factor against the tongue weight capacity of the hitch.

That said a weight distribution is a great option at your level. The Reese part # RP66022 that you referenced is the correct weight rating for where you are at now and will do a great job reducing sag and giving you a safer towing experience. You'll also need a shank too with part # RP54970.

For a 2 inch ball you would want part # A-90 and for a 2-5/16 inch ball # 19286.