Recommended Weight Distribution System For R-Pod With 315 Lb Tongue Weight

Updated 01/13/2020 | Published 01/07/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Curt TruTrack Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 10,000 lbs GTW, 1,000 lbs TW

(623)

$609.95

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

(3870)

$18.84

Curt TruTrack Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 8,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs TW

(623)

$596.95

Curt TruTrack Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 15,000 lbs GTW, 1,500 lbs TW

(623)

$634.95

2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/4" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000 lbs

(3870)

$19.91

Thin Walled Socket for Equal-i-zer Hitches

(100)

$95.09

Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 4,500 lbs GTW, 450 lbs TW

(112)

$520.82

Question:

I have a 2010 Mercedes ML350 with a weight distribution approved receiver rated for 576# Tongue Weight and towing capacity of 7200#. I am going to pull an R-Pod RP-179 that will have loaded a weight of 3,815 # and a tongue weight of 315#. Which is the best system for the job, A Curt C17499, C17500, or a C17501. If the is any other Curt system that will allow backing up and the use of electric surge brake I would appreciate your recommendation. Thanks

asked by: Ross F

Helpful Expert Reply:

When choosing a weight distribution system you wan't to find a system that is rated properly for your loaded tongue weight. You want the loaded tongue weight to fall in the center of the range that the weight distribution system spring bars are rated for. The Curt systems that you have mentioned part # C17499, part # C17500 and part # C17501 are all overrated for your tongue weight if it's 315 lbs loaded. Although the Curt systems are really great options there is not a system rated low enough for your setup.

I recommend to use Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control part # FA92-00-0450 which is surge and electric brake compatible. It allows for backing up and is the best option for your tongue weight. The spring bars are rated for tongue weights between 100-450 lbs. The system's integrated sway control limits side to side movement to keep the trailer on the road especially when a big truck passes or there is a gust of wind. You will need a hitch ball with 1" diameter shank for which I recommend Hitch Ball part # 40038 for a 2" or if you need a 2-5/16" I recommend part # C40007. You will also need a 1-7/8" thin walled socket to install the hitch ball part # EQ70-00-4800. I have attached a video for your reference.

expert reply by: Heather A

Ross F.

1/9/2020

Appreciated input from Heather A. She provided me with installation instructions for Curt Units C17500, 17501, and FA92-00-0450 which helped me in my research. Could she please send me the Installation Instructions for Curt Unit C17499 to assist me in completing my research on the possible weight distribution/sway control possibilities for my situation please. Thank you.