Weight Distribution Needed to Tow with a 2001 Chevrolet Express Van
Updated 07/18/2018 | Published 07/17/2018
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Question:
Hi. I have a 2001 chevy express 1500 LT. which is eqiped with the towing receiver. And the stiker on it says: Maximum trailer weight Weight carrying - 4000 LBS. toung weight - 400 LBS Weight distributing - 1000 LBS. toung weight - 1000 LBS Does it mean that if i use weight distribution system i can carry 10000 LBS ? The owners manual says max trailer weight 6600 LBS so i’m a little confused. Which distribution hitch would be recommended in my case please? Thank you !
asked by: Zura
Expert Reply:
Trailer hitches are given their own weight limits according to the testing done by the manufacturer. So if you were to use a weight distribution (WD) system your trailer hitch itself would be able to tow a 10,000 lb trailer, but since your 2001 Chevrolet Express Van is rated for a max trailer weight of 6,600 lbs you are limited to this capacity.
When looking into purchasing a Weight Distribution (WD) system you want to find one with a Tongue Weight (TW) range that the Total Tongue Weight (TTW) of your towing setup falls in the middle of. To find the TTW of your towing setup you will need to add the TW of your fully loaded and ready-to-go trailer, which you can use part # e99044 for, along with the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your tow vehicle. Keep in mind that a properly loaded trailer will have a TW that is 10-15% of the loaded weight of your trailer.
So it isn't as straightforward as one would hope, but if you are planning on towing more towards your capacity the Fastway e2 # FA92-00-0800, with a TW range of 400 lbs - 800 lbs, might very well be what you are needing. The hitch ball is sold separately so for a 2" option you would need part # A-90 or part # 63840 for a 2-5/16" hitch ball. It is recommended to use a thin-walled socket like part # EQ70-00-4800 to help make installing the hitch ball easier.
If your TTW doesn't fit in the range of this WD system just let me know what your TTW is and I can help you find a different WD system.
