Recommended Weight Distribution System for a 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Published 07/20/2017

Products Featured in This Question

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

(3933)

$20.94

2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 15,000 lbs

(3933)

$25.52

Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control - Trunnion - 8,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs TW

(170)

$594.77

Question:

I do need more assistance. My husband thinks an Equalizer hitch system would be easier for him to use. Is there one that would work with our tow vehicle and trailer? If the Equalizer won't work, is there a similar system?

asked by: Wendy

Expert Reply:

I appreciate the detailed information concerning your 1999 Grand Cherokee and 2017 Palomini. With a loaded hitch weight of 450 lbs and 200 lbs of cargo behind your axle, your total tongue weight is going to be roughly 650 lbs. With this in mind, the best weight distribution system for you is going to be the Reese Strait-Line # RP66083, which is designed for tongue weights between 400 and 800 lbs, has a gross towing weight of 8,000 lbs and will allow you to back up.

The Strait-Line also prevents sway instead of just reducing it by using a dual-cam system. It also uses serrated washers to adjust the tilt of the weight distribution head, which is more efficient than piling washers onto each other the way some systems do. You would also need a hitch ball, # A-90 for the 2 inch ball or # C40030 for the 2-5/16 inch ball.

I have included a couple of review videos of this system for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Kyle S

Wendy

7/20/2017

Kyle S.

7/20/2017

With a total tongue weight of 650 lbs, you would need a weight distribution system with an 800 lb capacity, which Equal-i-zer does not have. You would not want a system rated too highly because that could lead to a rigid ride with your trailer bouncing. I recommend taking a look at the Fastway e2 # FA92-00-0800. This system is designed for tongue weights between 600 lbs and 800 lbs with a maximum gross towing weight of 8,000 lbs. It is a sway reduction system that uses trunnion bars, has a snap-up lever to ease installation, comes with a 12 inch shank and will allow backing up like you wanted. I have added a link to a review video of this system for you to check out.