How to Select Correct Weight Distribution System on 2012 Jeep Cherokee

Updated 09/25/2017 | Published 09/23/2017

Question:

I have a 2012 cherokee 29U. I have a used hitch from someone that has the friction sway bar and it isnt quite up to the task. According to specs the tongue weight is about 850 lbs dry weight. Im looking at purchasing the Reese strait line with sway control. I'm not sure which tongue weight to go for. Also am I in the right line of thinking of this wd set up? Thanks.

asked by: Tim D

Expert Reply:

The Reese Strait-Line is a top-notch system so you were on top of things in that regard. However, in order to choose the correct hitch, you will first need to know your total tongue weight (TW), which is the tongue weight of your fully loaded and ready to go trailer plus the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your 2012 Jeep Cherokee. To determine TW you can use a scale such as the etrailer # e99044 or by using one of the methods outlined in the help article on determining TW I've linked for you. The ideal system would be one in which your TW would fall somewhere in the middle of the weight distribution system's tongue weight capacity.

For example, if your TW turned out to be 900 lbs, a great system would be the Reese Strait-Line # RP66074, which is for tongue weights between 600 lbs and 1,200 lbs. The Strait-Line is highly thought of because it does not allow sway to begin, stopping it with a cam system that locks in position; the head unit is also tilted with a serrated washer design, which is an easier system to use than the traditional washer system which requires stacking washers on top of one another.

I've added links to a video review of this system as well a link to an install for you.

expert reply by: Kyle S