What is Difference Between Weight Distribution Tongue Weight and Weight Carrying Tongue Weight  

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Expert Reply:

I can help explain the difference between the listing for towing weight and weight distribution towing capacity for you.

Let's use the Curt Class IV Trailer Hitch # C14010. This hitch has a towing capacity of 1,000lbs tongue weight and 10,000lbs towing weight. This would be the limits of the hitch when used with only the hitch, ball mount, and ball setup. See first attached picture. You will always be limited to your lowest rated item in your setup which ultimately could be your vehicle, these capacities are typically listed on the placard on the inside of your drivers door frame or in your owner's manual.

If you were to use a weight distribution system with the same hitch then the towing capacity of the hitch will be 1,200lbs tongue weight and 12,000lbs towing weight. These capacities are determined by the manufacture and increase because of the strength and support the weight distribution takes on. A weight distribution system redistributes some of the trailer tongue weight up to the front axle of the vehicle which helps take some of the load off of the hitch of the vehicle.

A weight distribution system is recommended if your trailer weight is more than 50 percent of your vehicle's weight.

expert reply by: Jameson C

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