Availability of Replacement Head for Older Draw-Tite Weight Distribution System Made in 1970s

Published 12/27/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Replacement Head for Reese Weight Distribution System - Round Bar

(51)

$304.07

Curt Round Bar Weight Distribution System w/ Friction Sway Control - 14K GTW, 1.4K TW

(456)

$402.58

Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW

(112)

$602.26

Question:

Whats a good strong W D set up for a 03 alliance model 303 Ultra lite? Pulling with a GMC 2017" 2500 HD SIERRA. I been looking at Curt 17063. I have a curt 2 1/2" shank for the receiver. 17131 Would this be strong enough to pull GTW- DRY 7,000lbs, 8,500lbs loaded?

asked by: Duane

Expert Reply:

The head design for the Draw-Tite (and now Reese) weight distribution system has changed over the years, so your existing round spring bars won't be compatible with the current style head (which would be the Reese part # RP58112). The original head to match what you currently have is no longer made.

This means your only option will be to upgrade to an entirely new weight distribution system. If you can tell me the capacity of your existing system, or the loaded weight of your trailer, I will be happy to make a specific recommendation. In the meantime I have attached a couple of great articles below that will walk you through making the best choice based on your particular trailer setup.

expert reply by: Chris R

Duane

12/27/2019

Chris R.

12/27/2019

With a loaded total trailer weight of around 8,500 pounds, you're looking at an estimated loaded tongue weight of 850 to 1,200 pounds (a trailer's tongue weight should be 10 to 15 percent of its total weight). The Curt MV Weight Distribution System # C17063 that you mentioned features a tongue weight range of 1,000 pounds to 1,500 pounds, which means it actually could potentially be a bit over-rated, however I think for your particular setup will end up working really well. This is because when choosing an appropriately-rated weight distribution system, it's important to consider your total tongue weight - which also includes any added cargo weight stored behind the rear axle of your tow vehicle. So if you typically have a loaded truck bed when going on your trips, this added weight should be enough to push your total tongue weight number comfortably within the Curt system's capacity range. Now if you don't think your added cargo will bump your total tongue weight number up enough to get over 1,000 pounds, it might be better to go with a lesser rated system like the Fastway e2 # FA92-00-1200 that features a lower tongue weight capacity range of 800 to 1,200 pounds. This system includes a shank but it can be swapped out for your existing 2-1/2" unit without issue. The potential drawback of an over-rated system is a bit of a rougher ride or stiffer handling during travel. I have attached a couple short video reviews on both of these systems below that you can also check out.