Installing a Reese WD System with Brackets on an I-Beam Trailer

Updated 09/13/2017 | Published 09/12/2017

Question:

DO YOU ALL OFFER ANY REESE WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION SNAP UP BRACKETS THAT WILL WORK ON AN I BEAM FRAME TRAILER WITHOUT CUTTING THE FRAME?

asked by: Kyle L

Expert Reply:

To install a Reese Snap-Up Bracket, like part # 58392, on an I-Beam trailer you will not need to cut the frame but have an experienced welder add some extra metal where the bracket will sit on the trailer frame. This will simulate a regular trailer frame and will allow the Snap-Up bracket to be safely used.

For example; the Reese Weight Distribution (WD) system # RP66542 uses brackets that require about 5-1/2" of trailer frame space and mount about 30" back from the hitch ball.

Keep in mind that when choosing a WD system you will want to choose one that has a Tongue Weight (TW) range that your Total Tongue Weight (TTW) falls in the middle of. You can find your TTW by adding the TW of your loaded and ready-to-go trailer along with the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your tow vehicle. A properly loaded trailer will have a TW that is 10-15% of the weight of the loaded trailer.

expert reply by: Jon G