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Can 2016 Honda Pilot Use Weight Distribution for 3500 lb Camper  

Updated 07/23/2021 | Published 07/17/2021

Question:

I have a 2016 honda pilot AWD. V6, with a factory tow hitch. The hitch can tow up to 5000 lbs. I tow a 18 foot camper GVWR 3500 lbs. The Honda manual advises the vehicle is designed not to need a WDH. I was thinking of just getting a sway control device. Do I need a WDH or just a sway control device and can you give me a reccomendation.

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Expert Reply:

According the online copy of the owner's manual I looked over, Honda states that "Your vehicle is designed to tow without the need for a load distributing hitch. If you wish to use one, please consult your trailer maker for proper installation and set-up. Improper set-up could degrade the handling, stability, and braking performance of your vehicle."

So Honda doesn't expressly forbid use of weight distribution. We'll typically recommend using a w/d system if the trailer weighs more than half the weight of the vehicle, which it does in this case. I'd highly recommend using a weight distribution system with an integrated sway control system. I'd consider sway control as a must because even smaller travel trailers tend to act like a big sail when hit with crosswinds or turbulence from passing traffic. The weight distribution system will also reduce any sag from the rear end which will throw your headlights out of aim and reduce front braking and steering response and leveling the vehicle's ride height between the front and rear axles.

Given the 3500 GVWR of your camper, your trailer tongue weight should be in the 300-500 lb range which would be perfect for the Fastway e2 system, part # FA92-00-0600. The hitch doesn't include the trailer ball, for a 2 inch you'll need part # A-90 for a 2 inch ball or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch ball. You'll also need a 1-7/8 inch thin walled socket to install the ball. If you don't have one or can't borrow one, we sell them as part # EQ70-00-4800.

I'll link you to a demonstration/install video for the e2 weight distribution system I recommended.

expert reply by:
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Mike L

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