Can You Back Up a Trailer when Using Weight Distribution

Question

Question:

I see you say that I should not go in reverse with a weight distribution hitch installed? Does that mean NEVER? Or am I ok backing up some, say in a parking lot or campsite to position the trailer? Ill be towing an open car trailer with a 6000lb truck on it with a 2003 Yukon XL 3/4 ton

asked by: Mark

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Expert Reply:

Some weight distribution system prohibit reversing because doing so could damage the system. If you are backing up in a straight line though it would be fine. But to make turns while backing up you would need to disengage the spring bars and/or the friction sway control unit, like on # PS49582, and then maneuver the trailer.

Some systems do not have this restriction including the Reese Strait-Line systems and Blue Ox Sway Pro systems. If using a weight distribution system that does not come with sway control at all then backing up would not be an issue unless making severe turns (jackknifing the trailer) and you would want to remove the spring bars ahead of time.

To choose a weight distribution system you will need to go by the total tongue weight of the set up. This is calculated by taking the tongue weight of the trailer, when loaded and ready to tow, and adding to that the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. If you can give me an estimated total tongue weight I can make some recommendations for you. I have included some helpful links on determining tongue weight and weight distribution for you.

expert reply by: Michael H

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Answer 1

Hey Jennifer! Yes, the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller #RED82CR you ordered does include everything required for installation. This comes with the brake controller, custom wiring harness for the tow package port in your 4Runner, and the…

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Answer 2

You will need to use a standard weight distribution kit like the Heavy Duty Trunnion Weight Distribution System #RP66131 for your I-beam trailer. This system would be rated perfectly for your 10k trailer if it was going to be loaded near it's…

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Answer 3

The 113/108 L is the load index which is normally translated to pounds capacity. For instance the 113 is 2,535 lbs maximum capacity and 108 is 2,205 lbs. For instance the Westlake ST205/75R14 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range D #274-000012 has a…

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Answer 4

If the trailer has electric brakes, you will need a brake controller to actuate them. GM didn't start offering a factory brake controller until a few years later. I would recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P2, part #90885. The Prodigy P2 is one of…

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Answer 5

Hey Duane, for the replacement screen and frame for the Ventline roof vent you found with the part number VD0434 we have the #BVC0573-31 in birch white or #BVC0573-41 in polar white. Here are the different height garnishes we offer as well. Leg depth…

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Answer 6

Thanks for reaching out, i have a couple things for you to do. Let me explain below: *12V PWM Filter for RV Backup Camera Systems - Hardwire #VGR64VR. The newer GMC vehicles use PWM(Pulse With Modulation) in their electrical systems. The Furrion…

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Answer 7

The Curt Class IV, part #C14081 would work great for you. According to Curt, the spare will need to be dropped temporarily in order to facilitate the installation, but once the hitch is in place, the spare will fit back in its original location. This…

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Answer 8

The TorkLift PowerArmor Solar Locking Battery Box part #TLA7700LS is not wide enough to fit two group 31 batteries. Group 31 batteries are 13" long by 6.72" wide by 9.44" tall. The only option that's big enough is the Commercial…

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Answer 9

I spoke with my rep at Blue Ox and checked Reese's website both the Chain Hangers you mentioned item #BXW4023 and the Reese item #RP58393 only work with chain hanging type weight distribution systems. Since you were looking at the Blue Ox 2-Point…

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Answer 10

Backing up may or may not be allowed depending on the weight distribution hitch you decide to get. However, no WDH is going to allow you to make full 90 degree turns. The spring bars may come out, or the system may end up damaged, so you would need…

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Answer 11

You are exactly correct. Birch white is more of a cream color, while polar white is a very bright white.

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Answer 12

Yes. If you don't need the weight distribution bars attached to carry the trailer to storage, you can absolutely use just the WD hitch head and ball to tow the trailer. It will work just like a ball mount.

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Can You Back Up a Trailer when Using Weight Distribution

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