Why Cant Weight Distribution System be Used on 2018 VW Atlas

Updated 11/20/2017 | Published 11/18/2017

Question:

Just purchased a VW Atlas with tow package. Limits are 5000 lbs and 500 lb hitch weight. I have a 3000 lb travel trailer I want to tow westward next spring. Owners manual states NO WEIGHT or LOAD LEVELING Hitch. Do you know why? Would the standard 2inch tongue and ball be safe?

asked by: KEN A

Expert Reply:

A weight distribution system is going to put a lot of stress onto the vehicle and trailer hitch. Typically, when a vehicle manufacturer prohibits a weight distribution system from being used, it simply means that the frame of the vehicle is not designed to handle the additional stress from the system, as it might result in damage to its frame.

As long as you remain under the towing capacities of your VW Atlas, it will be perfectly safe to tow your 3,000 pound travel trailer. Using a standard 2 inch ball mount like the Curt # D-4 will work well. I have attached an article on choosing the best ball mount for your towing setup that you can also take a look at. This will explain how to measure for the needed rise or drop on the ball mount in order to tow your trailer level.

expert reply by: Chris R