Best Reese Weight Distribution System for Use with Surge Brakes
Updated 03/05/2018 | Published 03/03/2018
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I have read your help articles about weight distribution hitches that are compatible with surge breaks. However, I cannot find the information about compatibility in the hitch manufacturer websites to confirm. Specifically, Reese. Can you refer me to manufacturers specs that confirm it please?
asked by: Kevin
Expert Reply:
In general, weight distribution systems that utilize chains on the end of the spring bars that attach to the frame brackets are not suited for use with surge brake couplers as they will reduce the force applied to the hitch ball. The reduced force applied to the hitch ball will decrease braking power. For surge brake couplers you will want to use weight distribution systems that utilize friction pads. I recommend using the Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System. I called my contact at Reese and they were able to confirm that this system is compatible with surge brake couplers.
In order to choose the correct setup you will need to find the total tongue weight (TTW) of your loaded ready to tow trailer in addition to any cargo stored behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. I have attached the Reese Steadi-Flex tongue weight capacities for you below.
250 lbs - 400 lbs: part # 66557
400 lbs - 600 lbs: part # RP66558
500 lbs - 1,000 lbs: part # RP66559
600 lbs - 1,200 lbs: part # RP66560
700 lbs - 1,400 lbs: part # RP66561
The only other thing you will need to install either of these systems is a hitch ball with a 1-1/4" shank for which I recommend using part # A-90 for 2" or part # 19286 for 2-5/16". I have also attached a review/install video of this system for you as well.
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Search Results: weight distribution hitch
- Video: The Low-Down on the Pole-Tongue Adapter for Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Systems
- Search Results: eoh
- Search Results: surge brake compatible weight distribution hitch
- Video: Review of Hydrastar Brake Actuator - OEM Electric-Hydraulic Brake Actuator - HS481-8067
- Video: In-Depth Review of the Gen-Y Torsion Weight Distribution Shank
- Article: 5 Things to Know About Weight Distribution Hitches
- Shop: Kenda Karrier KR35 ST175/80R13 LRC Radial Trailer Tire w/ 13" Aluminum AM03 Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2
- Shop: Pole-Tongue Adapter for Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Systems - 14,000 lbs GTW, 1,400 lbs TW
- Q&A: Weight and Sway Distribution Hitch For 2013 Camplite Trailer And Aluminum Frame
- Shop: Blue Ox Pole Tongue Weight Distributing Hitch Adapter
- Q&A: Is Weight Distribution Needed for 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 Towing 2019 Keystone Hideout 22RBWE
- Shop: Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch w Sway Control - 8" Drop/Rise - 14K GTW, 1.4K TW
- Shop: Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW
- Q&A: How to Add Sway Control to a Boat Trailer that has Surge Brakes
- Q&A: Recommended Weight Distribution System With Sway That Will Work With Surge Coupler
- Q&A: Weight Distribution System for Boat Trailer That Installs 32 Inches Back from Coupler
- Q&A: Recommendation of Weight Distribution System for 4500 lb Boat /Trailer With Surge Coupler
- Q&A: Recommended Weight Distribution System for 2009 Silverado 1500 Towing 24ft Boat with Surge Coupler
- Shop: Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control for 2" Hitch - 10,000 lbs GTW, 1,000 lbs TW
- Shop: Gen-Y Torsion Weight Distribution Shank - 2" Hitches - 6-1/2" Drop/Rise - 1,100 lbs TW
- Video: All About the 1-7/8" 12pt Thin Walled Socket
- Search Results: eq37060et
- Search Results: equalizer hitch shank
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Video: Firestone Ride-Rite Air Bags with Easy Mount Compressor Feature Breakdown
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Video: How to Choose a Trailer Brake Controller
on Weight Distribution Hitch
