Weight Distribution System Recommendation for a Trailer with 1,300 lbs Tongue Weight

Updated 06/09/2015 | Published 06/08/2015

Question:

Hello, I purchased a Pro Series weight distribution system with friction sway control for 10,000lbs GTW and 1,000lbs TW a couple years ago to borrow a friends trailer. This year, we decided to purchase our own. The GTW is around 8,000lbs and the TW is 1,100lbs. I suspect with cargo toward the front of the trailer, the TW is probably closer to 1,300lbs. Our dealer said this system would work fine and set it up for me ball height/angle, sway bars, etc.. We just got back from a trip where a stretch of road really got the trailer/truck bouncing pretty violently. Im wondering if getting a WD system rated for higher TW would help with that bounce, as well as with the sway? In terms of the sway, the original system came with one friction sway bar. Would a second be beneficial? The sway was most uncomfortable when a vehicle came right up on my bumper and would pass on the freeway. I have a 2014 Chevy Silverado 1500, so Im sure some of the ride was just due to the truck basically being maxed out. Thanks

asked by: Curtis B

Expert Reply:

You definitely need a higher rated weight distribution system. Since you have a shank and a friction sway control unit already you would want the Reese Weight Distribution w/out Shank # RP66131.

The best way to pick out a weight distribution system is to base it off of the loaded tongue weight of the setup when it is loaded and ready to tow. This figure also includes the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. I attached a help article on determining tongue weight for you to check out as well. You will want the loaded tongue weight of your setup to fall right in the middle of the tongue weight range of the system you use.

The # RP66131 has a tongue weight range of 800 lbs - 1,500 lbs so it would work well with your 1,300 lb tongue weight.

Also, be sure that you aren't overloading your truck as well. If your trailer is over the weight capacity of your truck there's isn't anything I can recommend that will allow it to be towed safely.

expert reply by: Jameson C