High Capacity Hitch and Weight Distribution System for a 1998 GMC K1500

Updated 04/19/2016 | Published 04/17/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class V XD - 2"

(121)

$352.30

2-5/16" Hitch Ball w/ 1" Rise - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Raw - 25K

(509)

$37.47

Reese Weight Dist Shank - 12-1/4" Long - 2" Drop to 6-1/2" Rise - 1,500 lbs TW

(64)

$179.77

Strait-Line Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - No Shank - Trunnion Bar - 15K GTW, 1,500 lbs TW

(70)

$896.45

Question:

I have a 1998 GMC K1500 5.7L 4x4 old body style. I was looking at a hitch for it. I want to keep the spare tire where it is. I plan to tow my camper with a GVWR of 10250 Lb. GAWR 5000 front and 5000 rear. Would you recommend a class III or a class IV? Would I have to use a weight distribution kit with either one? Your anticipated response and attention to this matter is greatly appreciated.

asked by: Roberto

Expert Reply:

Your trailer is pretty heavy so I would recommend a Class V hitch like the Curt part # C15325 which has been confirmed as a fit for your 1998 GMC K1500. This hitch has towing capacities of 2,400 lbs tongue weight and 16,000 lbs total trailer weight. Your spare can be reinstalled after installing this hitch.

Most likely you are going to need a weight distribution system for that trailer, but first you really need to make sure your vehicle is rated for towing your trailer. In the owners manual the towing capacities will be listed.

You would need a system like the Strait Line part # RP66130 that has a tongue weight range of 800-1,500 lbs and features the only sway control on the market designed to fight sway before it starts. For a shank you would then need the part # RP54970 and hitch ball # C40086.

expert reply by: Jameson C