How to Improve Sag on 2004 GMC Sierra With Weight Distribution

Published 09/18/2018

Question:

I have a 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 crew cab. The suspension is all OEM stock. I have a 31ft Puma Travel Trailer approx. 6800lbs empty that I tow. I believe the tongue weight to be about 1000lbs It pulls good, but would like to help the rear end not sag as much I do have weight distribution system but it still sags. I been told to add another leaf spring and coil shocks. I was just curious for your thoughts.

asked by: Stephen M

Expert Reply:

If your 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 has weight distribution but you are still sagging then the issue is probably that you do not have the correctly rated weight distribution system; the right system would definitely help your issue. A suspension enhancement like the RoadActive Suspension # RAS4611 will definitely help with your sag if it isn't extreme but if it is you'll need a properly rated weight distribution system.

If you let me know what system you currently have it is possible you can simply replace the spring bars or you may need another unit entirely.

In order to choose the correct weight distribution system you will first need to know your total tongue weight (TTW), which is the tongue weight of your fully loaded and ready to go trailer plus the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your Sierra.

The tongue weight is typically between 10% and 15% of your trailer's GVWR but you'll want to verify it by using a scale such as the etrailer # e99044 or by using one of the methods outlined in the help article on determining tongue weight I've linked for you. From there, simply add on the weight of the cargo behind the rear axle of your tow vehicle and you'll have your TTW. The ideal system would be one in which your TTW would fall somewhere in the middle of the weight distribution system's tongue weight capacity.

expert reply by: Kyle S