Recommended Weight Distribution System for 2014 Forest River R-Pod 178 Trailer

Published 02/16/2018

Question:

What is the weight distribution recommendation for a 2014 Chevy Traverse V6 3.6 liter with V92 tow package installed 5200 lb max tow towing a 2014 Forest River R-Pod model #178 Hitch weight 268?

asked by: Todd

Expert Reply:

When looking for the best weight distribution system for your Chevy Traverse and R-Pod trailer, the most important factor to consider is the total tongue weight of your setup. This number includes both the loaded tongue weight of the trailer, along with any added cargo weight coming from behind the rear axle of your Traverse. Ideally, this number will fall somewhere near the middle of the operating range for the system you choose.

The 268 pound hitch weight you provided looks like it is the empty hitch/tongue weight of the trailer. Since we want to choose a weight distribution system based on its loaded tongue weight (as if loaded and ready for a trip), we can calculate an estimate using the trailer's GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating), which is simply the most the trailer can weigh when it's fully loaded. In my research, I found that your 2014 R-Pod 178 model has a GVWR of 3,768 pounds. Since a trailer's tongue weight should be 10 to 15 percent of its total weight, we can estimate a loaded tongue weight of between 376 and 565 pounds.

With this in mind, the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System # EQ37060ET will likely work perfectly with your setup. This system will do an excellent job of evenly distributing weight over the axles of your trailer and Traverse and the integrated 4-Point Sway Control will limit any side-to-side movement. This particular system has a tongue weight capacity of 200 to 600 pounds.

I have attached a short video demonstration on this product that you can check out. I have also attached a great FAQ on weight distribution systems that you might also find helpful.

expert reply by: Chris R