Weight Distribution System Recommendation for a 2015 Chevy Silverado 1500
Updated 07/20/2015 | Published 07/18/2015
Question:
I have a 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 Double-Cab, Standard Bed 66 4x4 with the factory towing package. The truck is rated for 9200 lbs towing with my motor / gearing. The GMC towing guide specifies that a WDH is required for trailers over 7000lbs GTWR and indicates nothing concrete as to the Max Tongue Weight for the truck. It only states 10-15 of GTWR, and for the 1500 Series tongue weight should be up to 1200 lbs.inch Since a 7k trailer would have a max tongue weight of 1050 based on their 15 guideline, I dont understand whether I would actually need a WDH for a 10K trailer that would max out at 8k loaded based on my use. My more typical haul would actually be about 6k-6500 loaded. If a WDH is, in fact, required, Im looking for information on how to interpret the specs of the different ones here. When a WDH lists a particular tongue weight, is that the weight BEFORE or AFTER the application of the WDH? The trailering guide also states that anti-sway is required over 7k, but this is not necessary for the trailer I will be hauling. Still, if I were to opt to add it, why do some of the systems state that you cant back up with them attached? Would I need to uncouple the anti-sway just to back my trailer into my driveway? Thanks in advance,
asked by: Mark
Expert Reply:
For a trailer that weighs 8k I would recommend you use a WD system. Especially since your owners manual say anything over 7k requires one.
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.
Since tongue weight can be 10 to 15 percent of total trailer weight you would be looking at a tongue weight range of 800-1,200 lbs. Since GM also recommends the use of sway control I would recommend the Straitline System part # RP66084 as it has the tongue weight range of 600-1,200 lbs and features the only sway control on the market designed to fight sway before it starts.
With a WD system you don't want to jack knife your trailer as that can cause the bars to fall out or end up putting a lot of strain on the trailer. The # RP66084 does allow backing but you still wouldn't want to really jackknife the trailer without removing the spring bars.
