Weight Distribution & Sway Control System for V-Nose Trailer with Limited Frame Access for Brackets
Updated 04/02/2015 | Published 04/01/2015
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Question:
I have a 24foot enclosed trailer w/ a V nose. The trailer has 2x 5200lbs axles. Due to V-nose there is only 24inch between where the chain lift bracket and ball hitch location is located. I wanted to know what are my options for a WD setup, Id like something that reduces sway control. Thanks.
asked by: Roberto
Expert Reply:
A trailer with accessories like propane tanks up front or with V-nose construction like yours can make it more challenging to install a weight distribution (WD) system. WD spring bar brackets typically need to mount 25 - 30-inches behind the hitch ball. For example, the system you referenced, Pro Series # PS49582 requires placement of its brackets 30-inches from the center of the hitch ball.
This problem is not too uncommon and fortunately a solution exists. Reese offers their bolt-on lift bracket kit # RP58305 that bolts on to the side of your frame members so it will not interfere with the V-nose of the trailer.
Choosing a WD and sway control system requires that you confirm your trailer hitch is rated for use with such systems; its safety sticker will tell you. You also need to know the trailer's fully-loaded and ready-to-tow tongue weight (TW) with all gear and supplies in place, and add to this the weight of anything behind the tow vehicle's rear axle, such as a loaded cooler or generator. With this total effective TW figure you can choose a system. The linked article offers several ways to measure TW.
This matters so much because a mis-matched system will not do what you want it to. Springs bars that are too light will not give you the desired weight redistribution to the tow vehicle's front axle; bars that are too stiff will result in jumpy handling from the trailer. You want to choose a system such that your total effective TW falls into the middle of its operating range.
Once you know that figure you can use the link provided for you to select a system that is compatible with your type of trailer brakes and your total TW. If your total TW is 1000-lbs and you have electric brakes then you could use the Reese Strait-Line trunnion bar system # RP66084 along with the special brackets noted above. You'll need add only a hitch ball with a 1-1/4-inch diameter shank like # 63840.
I suggest you review the linked article as a start and feel free to let me know your total TW figure and the type of brakes on your trailer so I can offer specific recommendations. Also, please feel free to submit photos of your trailer's nose area (and/or information about the brand and model) so we can find the best solution for you.
