Recommended Weight Distribution Hitch for Winnebago Micro Minnie with GVWR of 7,000 lbs

Published 12/07/2018

Products Featured in This Question

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

(2634)

$24.72

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

(3932)

$20.94

Question:

I just bought a Winnebago Micro Minnie with a GVWR of 7,000 pounds and a Tongue Weight of 360 pounds they call it hitch weight. A friend offered me an old Reese Weight Distribution system rated 10,000 Gtw and 1000 pounds TW. I think that the 10,000 is appropriate but the 1,000 lb TW could cause problems. Should I purchase a 10,000 GTW and 400 or 500 lb TW system for proper results?

asked by: Rick B

Expert Reply:

For a weight distribution system, you want to make sure your total tongue weight falls within the range of the system. Total tongue weight is not just the unloaded hitch weight, but is the completely loaded and ready to go hitch weight (tongue weight) as well as any cargo weight behind the rear axle of the towing vehicle.

This total tongue weight needs to fall in the range of the system. For instance, the Reese Weight Distribution System w Shank - Round Bar - 10,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs TW # RP67509 is for total tongue weights between 400 lbs and 800 lbs.

For your trailer, some rough calculations would normally put you in the range your friend is offering. However, my recommendation based on your trailer is the Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 12K GTW, 1.2K TW # RP66560 rated for total tongue weights between 600 and 1200 lbs. This system will also be a huge help with sway control compared to the standard chain systems that do not help with sway. You will need a hitch ball so I recommend either # A-90 for a 2 inch ball or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch diameter ball.

I've attached some videos and an article to help further.

expert reply by: Jason S