Why Would Tow Vehicle Still Sag with Andersen Weight Distribution System being Used

Updated 06/11/2019 | Published 06/10/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System

(6327)

$269.36

Firestone Coil-Rite Air Helper Springs - Rear Axle

(715)

$130.06

Reese Weight Distribution System w/ Shank - Trunnion Bar - 8,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs TW

(13)

$843.23

Question:

Recently purchased a used 2005 Suburban 1500 and separately a used trailer dry weight 5307, hitch weight 560 lbs that came with Andersen WD hitch. I have more Suburban rear sag than I should. Anderson says should not have more than ~1.5inch sag for their hitch. When trailer fully loaded on ball, I get 3 1/4inch Suburban rear sag. With this much sag, using Andersens recommended ball height, I cannot adjust the hitch to level the trailer and have the Suburban level. Andersens of recommendation to me of raising the ball height higher which I couldnt understand why , didnt work, made things worse trail starts at level, so any tightening to engage WD for Suburban sag raises trailer above level. I have found I can, barely, by starting with a lower ball position, get the trailer level with the Suburban close enough to level. But because of the much lower starting position, this means, when installing, I have to extend the jack almost jack its limits and lifting the Suburbans rear much higher than I like. And I have no wigglefoot room in setup for when the Suburban and trailer become loaded. I was wondering if the Firestone Coil-Rite Air Helper Springs - Rear Axle Item # F4108inch might be an answer I have no experience with them and this is my first trailer with WD. Might they provide increased support for the Suburban such that the sag is reduced into the recommended 1.5inch range, which I think would also address the crazy full extension of the jack? I know you do not carry the Anderson hitch, but do carry the air helper springs. Please comment and advise. Another hitch is a it of a budget buster not to mention mad wife.

asked by: Craig S

Expert Reply:

The Andersen weight distribution system isn't as effective as other systems. The reason you are still experiencing sag with a weight distribution system is solely because of how ineffective that system is. The chains they use instead of spring bars just doesn't work as well.

Your best solution is going to be to go to a more effective system like the Reese kit part # RP66541 which will easily allow your Suburban to sit level. Suspension enhancement like the Coil Rite kit part # F4108 will remove the sag as well but you won't get the other benefits that a quality WD system can provide like improved braking and handling. Plus the ride won't be as rough.

expert reply by: Jameson C