Recommended Weight Distribution for Forest River Rockwood Premier 2516G Towed By 2000 Pathfinder

Question:

Looking for a WDH for my pop-up and Nissan pathfinder. I have a 2000 Nissan Pathfinder, and a 2015 Forest River Rockwood Premier 2516g. I have been towing it with a standard hitch. However, I would like to move to a Weight Distribution Hitch. Theres a hangup though the A-frame in front of the popups box is filled up with dual batteries, dual propane, the lift winch, and the trailer jack. I believe the point where the springbars would attach is exactly where the dual-propane tray is welded on top of the frame. I understand there are side-mounts for spring bars. Those would probably work for me. So Im seeking a recommendation for which products to consider. Trailer is about 3200 pounds, with a tongue weight right around 400 pounds loaded. Whatever system I get would need to be compatible with side-mounted springbar attachment brackets, so as not to interfere with the propane, batteries, etc. Looking forward to some guidance.

asked by: David O

Expert Reply:

To choose a weight distribution system, you'll need to first determine the fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of your trailer. To that figure, add the weight of any gear stowed in the cargo area of the SUV or truck bed behind the rear axle. I've linked to an FAQ article that explains how to do this. These combined figures comprise the Total Tongue Weight (TTW) of your set-up. The TTW of your trailer should fall as close as possible to the middle of the effective range of the weight distribution system you choose.

Lets say for instance that the fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight is 400 lb, and that you have 100 lbs of gear stowed in the cargo area of the Pathfinder behind the rear axle. If this is the case, the Pro Series # RP66541 which is rated for trailers whose tongue weights range between 400-800 lbs-which should be just about perfect for your trailer. If you use the bolt on chain hangers # RP58305 you'll have no problem with your propane tanks or batteries interfering.

You do need to add a hitch ball. Use part # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch ball or part # A-90 for a 2 inch.

expert reply by: Mike L