Should Tongue Weight be Measured When Choosing Weight Distribution

Updated 03/18/2020 | Published 03/16/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Replacement Friction Pad Kit for Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution Systems

(22)

$101.94

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

(2621)

$22.81

Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 10K GTW, 1K TW

(238)

$769.83

Question:

I weighed the tongue weight of the trailer using the 2X4 and house hold scale method on the site. I came up with about 840 pound. I have not loaded the horses yet but believe they will put me just over 1,000 pound. It mat be this weekend before I can get the actual weight with the horse in the trailer. I did talk to a rep the other day and he suggested the RP66560. Would the 1,000 pound be ok for that one or should I go to a heavier model?

asked by: Lennard S

Expert Reply:

I definitely recommend finding your trailer's tongue weight when choosing a weight distribution system. You need to have the trailer loaded like it will be when you're towing it, and you also need to add in any weight you put behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle because this counts as tongue weight when it comes to weight distribution.

You want a weight distribution system that has a tongue weight range that covers the tongue weight once you have that figured out. The closer to the middle of the system's range the better. Once you have the tongue weight, let me know and I'll make a recommendation for you.

expert reply by: Charles S

Lennard

1/1/0001

Charles S.

3/18/2020

The Steadi-Flex is a good system and one I recommend. The "brake pads" make it quieter than most others which is nice since weight distribution as a rule makes so much noise. The only downside is those pads do wear down and need to be replaced on occasion with part # RP58527 but it's fairly easy. The 1,000 pound Steadi-Flex, part # RP66559, is probably too low for you. If you're already at 840 pounds before loading the trailer you'll be over that in no time. Especially if you add any weight behind the rear axle. So I agree with our rep the 1,200 pound system, part # RP66560, makes more sense. I do recommend finding the loaded tongue weight and total trailer weight though. Both are important to make sure you're not overloading the truck or trailer. The Steadi-Flex systems don't include a hitch ball. You need one with a 1-1/4 inch shank like part # 19286.