Weight Distribution for a 2001 GMC Sierra 1500 and 6,000 Pound Toy Hauler Trailer
Updated 09/23/2015 | Published 09/22/2015
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Question:
I have a 2001 GMC 1500 Sierra 4WD, 5.3L, 3:73 gears, and will be pulling a 6000 pound loaded weight toy hauler. My truck, weight is 5600 lbs. full tank with driver, pass. and cargo. Which WD hitch components would be optimum for safe handling down the road. I tend to go overkill for matters like this===to hedge on the side of safety. I also have the factory HD tow package which came with the truck when I purchased it. I,m not certain if the receiver is compatible with a WD system.
asked by: Joe
Helpful Expert Reply:
I am certain that your 2001 GMC Sierra 1500 with the HD tow package is rated for weight distribution so no worries there. 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.
You can't really go overkill with weight distribution because if you get a system rated too heavy for the trailer it will create a stiff and generally poor ride and the system will not be all that effective in providing a better towing experience.
Tongue weight is usually 10 t0 15 percent of the gross trailer weight and on a 6,000 pound trailer that would be 600 to 900 pounds. A system rated for 600 to 1,200 pounds # RP66542 would cover that range.
This system does not include a ball or sway control. For a ball you can use # 19286. And for sway control I recommend the dual-cam system, # RP26002. Dual-cam sway control prevents trailer sway from starting which is why I recommend it. You could try the weight distribution system by itself first and add the dual-cam sway control later if you find sway to be a problem.
I have included some helpful links on weight distribution and determining tongue weight for you as well.
