General Height Rule for Setting up a Weight Distribution System

Updated 08/27/2018 | Published 08/25/2018

Question:

I trying to get the optimum settings for my weight distributing hitch and travel trailer, I have tried several different settings with the following results, I would like some advice on which is the best option to go with. stock weight of tow vehicle = 6260 - 3540 front, 2720 rear starting trailer weight = 6760 840 tongue weight first configuration using only rear air bags Front 3240, Rear 3840, Trailer 5940 Second With WDH and spring bars using 7 links with 10psi in air system Front 3680, Rear 3140, Trailer 6200. Third WDH 7 links and 25 psi air Front 3660, Rear 3180, Trailer 6180. Fourth WDH 7 links and 35 psi air Front 3640, Rear 3200, Trailer 6180 Trailer perfectly level, tow veh. slight nose down like stock pitch Last WDH and 8 links with 35 psi Front 3520, Rear 3380, Trailer 6120 Tow veh. height same as last, trailer very slight nose down attitude. Im just wondering if its acceptable to increase the steering axle weight by 100 pounds while adding 480 to the rear 580 overall increase

asked by: Tom T

Expert Reply:

When using a weight distribution (WD) system it isn't as much about making sure that all of the weights are even as it is that everything is riding as level as possible. With this being the case I believe your 4th configuration would be the one to go with.

I am not sure what WD system you have, but the general instructions for WD systems have you measuring the stock height of the back and front of your tow vehicle as well as what the height of the trailer tongue needs to be to sit level. After taking those measurements it is simply a matter of making adjustments until everything is as close to level as can be.

expert reply by: Jon G