How to Select Weight Distribution System for Snowmobile Trailer with Varying Tongue Weight

Updated 08/29/2017 | Published 08/27/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Pole-Tongue Adapter for Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Systems - 14,000 lbs GTW, 1,400 lbs TW

(72)

$115.57

Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 10,000 lbs GTW, 1,000 lbs TW

(853)

$850.00

Question:

Hi, I am a little confused on weight ratings. I am looking for a weight distribution set up for a tongue pole inline snowmobile trailer. The trailer weighs just at 6000 pounds fully loaded and tongue weight runs from 700-900 pounds depending on which machines I am hauling. I know I need a pole tongue adapter and I see Reese and equalizer both make these. I am confused with which hitch to get. I do not see anything rated for my tongue weight. Sould I go with one of the heavier setups? Also is one of these brands better then the other? Thanks

asked by: Ray

Expert Reply:

The goal when selecting a weight distribution/sway control (WD/SC) system for a trailer like your 6000-lb pole-tongue snow machine trailer is to choose one so that your actual fully-loaded trailer tongue weight (TW) falls in the middle of the system's operating range. In this TW figure you also need to include the weight of any cargo in the vehicle that sits behind the rear axle, such as a generator or cooler.

All of these systems work over a range of TW and choosing the right one means it will be stiff enough to shift TW forward to the vehicle's front axle and reduce sway but without being so stiff that it causes weird handling from the trailer. The linked article and video will give you more detail.

We'll say your TW is 800-lbs since it varies from 700- to 900-lbs depending on the specific machines. The linked page displays all WD/SC systems suited to this TW. For instance, the Equal-i-zer 4-Point Sway Control # EQ37100ET works effectively over a TW range from 600- to 1000-lbs so it ideally covers your varying trailer TW. You can use Pole Tongue Adapter # EQ95-01-5950 that you referenced.

I like the Equal-i-zer systems because their spring bar brackets are smaller than many, often making them easier to place on the trailer frame.

expert reply by: Adam R