Recommended Weight Distribution Hitch for Somerset E3 Pop Up Camper

Published 07/14/2023

Products Featured in This Question

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

(3950)

$17.94

1-1/2" 12pt Socket - 3/4" Drive - Chromium-Vanadium Steel

(291)

$16.27

2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 7,500 lbs

(3950)

$18.63

Inner Link Plate for Equal-i-zer Sway Control Bracket - 8" Trailer Frames - Qty 1

(26)

$26.57

Inner Link Plate for Equal-i-zer Sway Control Bracket - 10" Trailer Frames - Qty 1

(5)

$23.27

Outer Link Plate for Equal-i-zer Sway Control Bracket - 8" Trailer Frames - Qty 1

(27)

$49.10

Outer Link Plate for Equal-i-zer Sway Control Bracket - 10" Trailer Frames - Qty 1

(3)

$42.20

Equal-i-zer 1/2" Stud Bolt for Weight Distribution Sway Control Bracket - Qty 1

(1)

$3.64

Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 4,500 lbs GTW, 450 lbs TW

(118)

$609.74

Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - Round - 6,000 lbs GTW, 600 lbs TW

(180)

$550.00

Question:

You recommend the Fastway FA94-00-0600 for my 19 Highlander to pull a 3000 lb Columbia/Somerset e3 pop up. The trailer has a 268lb TW. Will this hitch work with the Somerset which has a stacked frame? Another post I read on your sight with a similar truck/somerset set up said he needed longer chains for the stacked frame on the Somerset when installing the Curt C17050.

asked by: Steve K

Expert Reply:

That answer you looked at is a bit confusing and I think it gave you the wrong idea about weight distribution. A weight distribution hitch should not be selected based on your tow vehicle. The most important thing is making sure your loaded tongue weight falls into the tongue weight range of the hitch.

I don't know what year or exact model you have but I'm guessing 268 lbs is the dry tongue weight. You will need to measure to see what your loaded tongue weight is, or at least find the GVWR. Typically your tongue weight is 10-15% of your loaded trailer weight so using the GVWR you can get a good idea. You can also use a scale like # e99044.

The # FA94-00-0600 has a tongue weight range of 400-600 lbs which is likely too high. The # FA92-00-0450 works with tongue weights up to 450 lbs so that is likely what you need instead. You will also need # 40038 for a 2" ball or # C40005 for a 2-5/16" ball along with # ALL643210 for installation.

As is, you cannot attach this to your trailer frame and will need additional link plates. Measure the height of the two frames combined. If you're at or just under 8" you need the # EQ90-02-5378 and # EQ90-02-5208. If it is 10" you can use the # EQ90-02-5210 and # EQ90-02-5379. You will need 4 of the bolts # EQ90-04-9281 to mount these. You will also need to use the inverted mounting position which can be seen in the picture below.

If the stacked frame is taller than 10" your only option would be to weld the L brackets to the trailer frame. Just to be clear, drilling and bolting them directly on is not an option according to the manufacturer. I recommend taking it to a certified welder to perform this type of installation.

I have attached a review video below, along with a helpful article on determining tongue weight for your reference.