Recommendation for Weight Distribution on 2009 Chevy Trailblazer Towing Jayco 4,600-Lb Trailer

Question:

I’m looking for a WD and sway control hitch setup for my 2009 Chevy Trailblazer 4wd, 4.2l inline 6 w/ 3.42 rear axle - manual says 5200# tow cap and 800# tW. my new camper is a jayco 2008 jay feather exp 254 4600# dry weights, TW 535# 2- 5/16” ball – I’m guessing 1000# of load. Would like the setup to be bolt on as compared to drill less work! This is a big upgrade from our 3000# popup. This trailered great with only friction control. I’m concerned with the size of the new trailer about sway controller and handling in general - I’d love it to trailer like my popup, but I’m guessing that is asking too much. as GM has chosen not to make the trailblazer anymore not happy with that i will have to switch vehicle next year. Thinking of sticking with midsized SUV jeep, or ford at this point but the trailer will also influence this decision. – want a hitch I can reuse with adjustable also looking at the P2 brake controller - good choice?

asked by: Michael

Expert Reply:

Since the towing capacity of your 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer is 5,200 lbs and you are towing a 4,600-lb dry weight trailer, you will want to be careful and not overload the trailer with extra cargo that might put you over the 5,200-lb limit. Also, when loading the trailer make sure to load 60 percent of the cargo closer to the front (tongue) of the trailer. This will also help with sway control of the trailer.

For your 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer 4WD towing a 5,200-lb trailer the tongue weight range would be 520 to 780 lbs (10 to 15 percent). The Curt Weight Distribution System, part # C17322, you have referenced will work fine for your application.

This system will be a bolt-on application and could be transferred to another vehicle if you will be towing the same trailer.

These weight distribution systems will also include the adjustable shank that is needed when attaching the system to your hitch and a ball.

As far as the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Brake Controller, part # 90885, you have mentioned it is one of our best selling and highest rated controllers. This brake controller does its job well. It is easy to use, easy to understand, and looks good. I am including a link to the installation instructions.

Another item to look at would be a transmission cooler for your TrailBlazer. When towing a trailer that will be close to the towing capacity of the vehicle you will want to help keep the transmission fluid from running hot and causing transmission problems. I would recommend the Derale Series 8000 Cooler, part # D13503, along with the Derale Radiator Adapter Fitting, part # D13035.