Can a Weight Distribution System be Used on an I Beam Trailer

Updated 04/27/2016 | Published 04/24/2016

Question:

Hello Sir/Maam, Im purchasing a new enclosed car hauler. The trailer will be rated to 10,000lbs with roughly a 3500 lb empty weight and towed by a 2015 Ram 2500. Im looking for a suitable weight distribution/sway control hitch, but Im really struggling to find one that will fit the 2.5 inch class V hitch on the truck that will work with the 8 inch I beam trailer. Do you know of any that will do that? I was looking at the Blue Ox Sway Pro with the 2.5 inch shank, but I wasnt sure if it would work on an I beam. The trailer has not been built yet, so I can add the 5-6 inch plate to the outside of the I beam frame and potentially have the chain brackets welded on if I sent the hitch to the manufacturer. Would the SwayPro work or should I be looking at something different? Thanks!

asked by: Steven C

Expert Reply:

You will need to use a standard weight distribution kit like the Heavy Duty Trunnion Weight Distribution System # RP66131 for your I-beam trailer. This system would be rated perfectly for your 10k trailer if it was going to be loaded near it's capacity. This system has a tongue weight range of 800 lbs - 1,500 lbs which would be most likely what you would have. For a shank you would then want the part # RP54977.

To use the Heavy Duty Trunnion Weight Distribution System, # RP66131, or a similar system, you will need to have a steel plate 5 or 6 inches wide welded, by an experienced welder, at 30 inches on center from the center of the hitch ball.

Before modifying the trailer frame you will need to check with the trailer manufacturer to see if this will create an unsafe condition, or void your trailer warranty.

Once the plates are welded on you would then use the bolt on Weight Distribution Chain Hanger Kit, # RP58305 to attach the weight distribution system to the frame.

expert reply by: Jameson C