Weight Distribution Hitch on Vehicle with Self Leveling Suspension

Updated 05/05/2020 | Published 06/28/2016

Question:

I recently purchased the Reese Strait-Line Weight Distribution w Sway Control - Trunnion Bar - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW - RP66074 for my 2016 Cadillac Escalade ESV towing a Coachmen Adrenaline Toy Hauler. This particular vehicle is equipped with Self Leveling Suspension. My question is, for installation purposes should the weight distribution hitch be installed and adjusted before or after the vehicle is allowed to automatically level the suspension?

asked by: William Q

Helpful Expert Reply:

For vehicles with auto-leveling suspension the proper setup procedure for weight distribution is to put the full tongue weight on the trailer hitch to activate the vehicle's auto-level function and then from there go through the setup procedure for the weight distribution system.

expert reply by: Jameson C

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Ryan B.

5/3/2020

So what exactly do you mean by “go from there”? Should I put the full weight on, take wheel well measurements and then disconnect and do my setup?

Chris R.

5/5/2020

Exactly - put the full weight on the hitch so that the suspension system activates/adjusts and then follow the full setup instructions for your WD system, including taking those wheel well measurements, etc. Since the auto suspension will do some leveling of its own, you want to take these measurements with everything loaded so the WD system is adjusted properly.