Recommended Weight Distribution System SUV/RV Attachment GTW 4500lbs

Updated 05/02/2018 | Published 05/01/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 4,500 lbs GTW, 450 lbs TW

(112)

$482.49

2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-3/4" Long Shank - Chrome - 12,000 lbs

(2621)

$22.76

2" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/4" Long Shank - Chrome - 12,000 lbs

(3873)

$19.94

2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 7,500 lbs

(2621)

$15.90

2" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000

(3873)

$19.35

Thin Walled Socket for Equal-i-zer Hitches

(100)

$90.07

Question:

I am looking into sway controllers for my SUV/RV attachment. The max gross weight of my RV is 4500lbs. My question is, would it be beneficial, harmful, or make no difference if I were to get a higher weight stabilization bar? Thank you!

asked by: Anna M

Helpful Expert Reply:

Its is very beneficial to have weight distribution sway controllers. A weight distribution system helps to ensure a smooth, level ride and allows you to tow to the maximum capacity allowed by your hitch. It also helps to correct tow vehicle sag, improve steering and stopping, and when used with sway control correct trailer sway.

When choosing a weight distribution system capacity is key. We know that the max gross weight of your RV is 4500lbs, which means that when your RV is fully loaded and ready for travel it will not exceed 4500lbs. The next important measurement is Tongue Weight (TW) which is typically about 10 to 15 percent of GTW. For weight distribution TW is the added weight behind the rear axle of your town vehicle plus the tongue weight of your loaded trailer. For example if your fully loaded RV is 4500lbs that means your tongue weight estimate is between 450lbs and 675lbs. However you will need to get a accurate weight of your tongue weight, this can be done by using a etrailer Trailer Tongue Weight Scale # e99044 or by reading the attached article on how to determine tongue weight. Then add any weight stored behind the rear axle of your tow vehicle to the loaded trailer's TW. This is the number you need to use when selecting a weight distribution system.

If your tongue weight is around or over 675lbs, I recommend # RP66073, because it is rated to handle TW from 500 to 800lbs. If your tongue weight is 450lb or under # FA92-00-0450 is a good choice because its rated to handle TW between 100 to 450lbs.

In regards to would it be beneficial, harmful, or make no difference if you were to get a higher rated stabilization bar, all depends on the TW. Picking the correctly rated WD system is the most important thing. It will provide a safer tow, and will allow you to have better control of your cargo.
Choosing a weight distribution system with a much higher TW rating may lead to erratic performance because it is rated too high.

If you need a hitch ball for # FA92-00-0450, 2" Hitch Ball # 40038 or 2-5/16" Hitch Ball # 63847
is recommended. # EQ70-00-4800 (1) 1-7/8" socket is recommended for installing hitch ball on weight distribution head.

If you need a hitch ball for # RP66073 2" Hitch Ball # A-90 or 2-5/16" Hitch Ball # 19286 is recommended.