Does a Weight Distribution System Increase Towing Capacity of Vehicle

Updated 03/08/2017 | Published 03/07/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Strait-Line Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control - Trunnion Bar - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW

(172)

$1154.04

2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-3/4" Long Shank - Chrome - 12,000 lbs

(2617)

$21.43

2" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000

(3858)

$18.15

Question:

I have a ram 2500 with a payload capacity of 2690 lbs, the base weight of the truck with a fiberglass cap is 6,606 lbs, the truck has GVWR of 9,000 lbs. My trailer has a GVWR of 10,900 lbs and a hitch weight of 831 lbs, my concern is that with a full fuel tank and two people and some supplies I may be over the payload capacity when I hook up the trailer. Would a WDH take some of the load off of the hitch and truck? Thanks

asked by: Perik

Expert Reply:

What you would need to do is check the hitch or owners manual of your vehicle to see if there is a second set of higher towing capacities when you use a weight distribution system. You should see a slightly higher towing capacity.

The WD system is designed to distribute some of the trailer's tongue weight back up to the front axle of the tow vehicle. An exact number is hard to say though.

For a weight distribution system the part # RP66084 would be your best option. It has a tongue weight range of 600-1,200 lbs and features the only sway control on the market designed to fight sway before it starts.

For a 2 inch ball you would want part # A-90 and for a 2-5/16 inch ball # 19286.

expert reply by: Jameson C