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The Best Weight Distribution System For A GTW of 9,000-10,000 Pounds  

Published 05/01/2017

Question:

I have a Toyota Tundra with a 6inch suspension lift. I am trying to tow a trailer loaded with ~6,000 lb. tractor. I dont know the exact GTW but the trailer has 2-1,500 lb. axles so Im estimating around 9,000-10,000 lbs. When I tried towing it the first time it almost bottomed out my rear suspension on my truck and lifted the front end so far up I saw it unfit to try to tow it. I am trying to determine the best suited weight distribution system to use for this application.

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Expert Reply:

In order to determine the best weight distribution system for your current setup, I would need to know the exact tongue weight of your trailer and any weight stored behind the rear axle of your tow vehicle. I have attached a help article on how to properly measure the tongue weight of your trailer. To ensure a proper reading, I recommend the etrailer Trailer Tongue Weight Scale part # e99044. This will allow you to measure the exact tongue weight of your trailer with little to no room for errors.

The next step in determining the right system for your needs involves the option of sway controls. Trailer sway is caused by crosswinds and poor trailer loading. I would recommend a weight distribution system with built in sway controls due to the difficulties that will arise when towing a trailer with a lifted vehicle.

A properly loaded trailer will have a tongue weight of around 10 to 15% of the gross trailer weight (GTW). For a TW between 800 and 1,200 lbs I recommend our Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control part # EQ37121ET. The Equal-i-zer system is a top of the line option featuring a 4-point sway control design to minimize sway.

If your total tongue weight will be more than 1,200 lbs, then I recommend recommend the Strait-Line Weight Distribution w Sway Control part # RP66075. The Straight-Line system is capable of towing a trailer with a TW of 1,000 to 1,700lbs. It features a dual-cam sway control system that prevents trailer sway before it begins.

In order to create a level towing surface between your truck and trailer I recommend the use of a long weight distribution shank.Creating a level towing surface will be crucial to your vehicle's ability to brake and turn while towing. I suggest either the Equal-i-zer Weight Dist Shank part # EQ90-02-4400 or our Equal-i-zer Weight Dist Shank part # EQ90-02-4300. These Equal-i-zer Weight Dist Shank's have a maximum drop of up to 6" and 9" in. respectively.

I have attached an article to help you determine the right size drop for your setup in addition to a review of our Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control part # EQ37121ET and Strait-Line Weight Distribution w Sway Control part # RP66075.

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Conner L

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