Weight Distribution for a 2011 Toyota Highlander and 2,800 Pound Trailer

Updated 06/20/2016 | Published 06/17/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - Round - 6,000 lbs GTW, 600 lbs TW

(182)

$550.00

2" Hitch Ball for Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Systems - 8,000 lbs

(230)

$27.94

2-5/16" Hitch Ball for Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Systems - 10,000 lbs

(230)

$33.13

Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 4,500 lbs GTW, 450 lbs TW

(121)

$560.08

Question:

I have a 2011 Toyota Highlander with towing package. It is rated for 5,000lbs towing capacity. I purchased a KZ-RV Sportsmen Classic 19BHS. The dry weight is 2,840 and the dry hitch weight is 370. I noticed that the minimum hitch weight for this unit is 400lbs. I assume the weight will be at 400 or slightly higher once loaded, plus we will have stuff in the back of the Highlander as well. Would this be the appropriate product for me to purchase.

asked by: Scott B

Expert Reply:

When choosing weight distribution you need to go by the total tongue weight. This is the tongue weight of the trailer when loaded and ready to tow plus the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of your 2011 Toyota Highlander. I have linked a help article on determining tongue weight for you.

If the dry hitch weight of the trailer is 370 pounds then the total tongue weight will likely easily exceed 400 pounds so the 400 to 600 pounds system # FA94-00-0600 is a great choice. But if capacity ends up staying under 450 pounds you could use # FA92-00-0450 instead.

For either system you can use 2 inch ball # EQ91-00-6080 or 2-5/16 inch ball # EQ91-00-6100 depending on what the trailer coupler requires.

expert reply by: Michael H