Backing a Trailer With Weight Distribution System

Question

Question:

The Reese WD RP6642 says you cannot back up, but the Reese Straight line says you can. Somehow the cams allow you to back up. What Im missing? Thanks

asked by: Joe S

0

Expert Reply:

Here's the story about backing your trailer with a weight distribution system. If you're using a friction sway control like part # 83660, you should remove the sway control unless you're backing more or less in a straight line.

If you're not using a friction sway control unit, it's okay to leave the bars in place while backing but keep in mind that the system, vehicle and the trailer can get damaged if the trailer jackknifes. If you're backing the trailer and cutting the wheels sharply, best to be safe and remove the spring bars.

I looked through the instructions for the Reese # RP66542, and wasn't able to find a reference about not backing the trailer while the spring bars are installed.

expert reply by: Mike L

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Answer 1

The Reese Strait-Line Weight Distribution System #RP66084 referenced in your question does indeed allow you to back up with the trailer attached since its sway control is integrated into the head assembly. There isn't a specific angle measurement…

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Answer 2

The parts that you have referenced have been obsoleted by Reese and they were unable to identify what you have. The closest weight distribution system currently produced by Reese is the #RP66542 which is rated at 12,000 lbs GTW and 1,200 lbs TW. The…

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Answer 3

The Reese Weight Distribution Systems like part #RE44FR will allow you to reverse without having to disengage the spring bars. That said, you need to make sure you are doing so at a relatively straight angle meaning you can't put the trailer at…

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Answer 4

If your loaded tongue weight is 1,050 lbs then the Reese Weight Distribution system part #RP66542 would work well as it has a tongue weight range of 600-1,200 lbs which would work well for you. The only setup that would be better would be the Strait…

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Answer 5

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 6

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

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Answer 7

Hi Paul, you’re definitely on the right track here, and I can help you narrow this down with confidence. With your tandem 3,500 lb Dexter axles and 33 inch spacing, both the Dexter EZ Flex part #K71-652-00 and the Lippert Road Armor part #LC53CK are…

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Answer 8

Welcome back Don! The Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control item #EQ37120ET is exactly what I would recommend using. This is a solid reliable system and the built in sway control will make a noticeable improvement in ride…

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Answer 9

Hey Michael! When you're choosing a weight distribution hitch the most important factor is the tongue weight of the trailer. It looks like the dry/unloaded tongue weight of a Brinkley Z Air 297 is 924 lbs. Once you add batteries and propane you…

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Backing a Trailer With Weight Distribution System

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