Is My Trailers Frame Strong Enough To Use A Weight Distribution Hitch

Question

Question:

I have a 6 x 12 single axle Nationcraft cargo trailer rated at 2990 GVWR that I have converted into a camper. The tongue is constructed with 2 x 3 tube steel and the manufacturer online specs state that it is a 5200 lb A-frame construction. My question is this, Is a 2x3 steel tongue strong enough for a WDH? The dry weight of my camper is close to the GVWR at 2950 with proper tongue weight and a evenly distributed build weight. Also I upgrade to a 5200 lb straight axle, leaf springs and 10 ply tires. I went this route simply for more ground clearance and never plan to put any more weight in the trailer other than basic camping needs keeping it as close to the GVWR as possible. I also know that the trailer is only as strong as its weakest components. What are your thoughts on the WDH?

asked by: Brian P

0

Expert Reply:

That is a great question. There are a lot of trailers out there that use 2" x 3" tongues that are strong enough for a weight distribution hitch. There are also some trailers that are not made to be used with a WD hitch. The size of the steel is a factor but it is not the only factor. It ultimately comes down to the quality, and construction of the frame. Generally, most trailer frames can handle a WD hitch, and I have seen them used on similar enclosed trailers on many occasions. Most trailer manufacturers will specify if their frames can be used with weight distribution or not. Your best bet would be to contact a Nationcraft dealership with your VIN. They should be able to give you the "official" answer.

That being said, if you do decide to use a WD hitch, I recommend the Blue Ox TrackPro # BLU36FR. This is the 6,000 lb system, and will work on trailers with a tongue weight between 200 and 600 lbs. If your trailer is just under 3,000 you will be within that range of tongue weight at all times. Blue Ox Makes a very effective, user friendly WD hitch, which will give you immediate results. Plus all Blue Ox products are made in the USA.

expert reply by: Jesse M

0

Answer 1

I recommend using the Fastway e2 Weight Distribution #FA92-00-1000 for your trailer with the 2 UTV's. This system is also rated for a trailer up to 10,000lbs but has a much wider spread tongue weight capacity of 600-1,000lbs. The Curt #C69JR you…

view full answer...

Answer 2

On each individual electric brake magnet the amperage draw would be 3.0 to 3.2 max amps at 12 to 13 volts on 7-inch brake magnets and 3.2 to 4.0 max amps at 12 to 13 volts on 10 and 12-inch brake magnets. The max amperage draw for the brake magnets…

view full answer...

Answer 3

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

view full answer...

Answer 4

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

view full answer...

Answer 5

Yes, David you are correct. The Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Custom Harness item #RED82CR is exactly what you need. Since your 2024 Toyota 4Runner came with a 7-way connector, the plug and play adapter included with item #RED82CR will…

view full answer...

Answer 6

Hello Tim, Are you asking if you can back up with just the head installed on the Weigh Safe True Tow Weight Distribution Hitch #WS79VR, when you put the trailer coupler onto the ball? If so, then yes because at that point it is really just a ball…

view full answer...

Answer 7

For sag from towing a trailer the best recommendation I can make is actually a weight distribution system. Suspension enhancement will help level your truck while towing. But the advantage to a weight distribution system is that it levels the vehicle…

view full answer...

Answer 8

In order to determine the torque rating for the lug nuts on your trailer you will need to know check out the chart I attached that shows all of the torque specs for all the trailer lugs available based on stud size, wheel material and wheel size.

view full answer...

Answer 9

Hey Thomas, we've got you covered. And I agree about TorkLift - they are always what I recommend as long as they're available for the truck. I'm not sure what the hitch situation is on your Tundra, but if you have the factory unit,…

view full answer...

Answer 10

The trailer brakes work on a separate circuit than the lights. You have a couple of options to control the electric brakes on the trailer. One option is to use an air over electric brake control, #HA100400C. This unit connects to the air brakes on…

view full answer...

Answer 11

Hello Tom, Thank you so much for the detailed information, especially having the Cat Scale weight so we know how your weight is distributed. I wish every customer was as thorough as you are. I really like the Equal-i-zer system that you have been…

view full answer...

Answer 12

Hello Jonathan, Great question. You are going to want the #RED98CR as it will be both the brake controller and the plug-n-play pigtail for the 2008 Toyota Tundra. The #RED82CR is just the brake controller by itself. Happy New Year! May 2025 be your…

view full answer...

Is My Trailers Frame Strong Enough To Use A Weight Distribution Hitch

Products Referenced in This Question

Product Page this Question was Asked From

Continue Researching