Weight Distribution and Brake Controller Recommendation for 2017 Nissan Pathfinder

Updated 05/21/2020 | Published 05/20/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 10,000 lbs GTW, 1,000 lbs TW

(840)

$693.55

1-7/8" 12pt Shallow Socket - 3/4" Drive - Chromium-Vanadium Steel

(279)

$19.92

Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller - 7-Way Plug-in w/ Bluetooth App - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional

(1769)

$279.95

Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 6,000 lbs GTW, 600 lbs TW

(840)

$825.00

Question:

Does my 2017 Pathfinder require a weight distribution system with a class 3 hitch? I just purchased my first travel trailer and the dry weight is 4200 lbs. After filling the water tank and propane tanks I should be around 4500 lbs. or less. I think Im well withing my towing limits but the weight distribution system and electric brake controllers are all Greek to me.

asked by: Richard

Expert Reply:

Any time the weight of the trailer is more than half the weight of the tow vehicle it's a really good idea to use weight distribution. For the trailer weight you mentioned it would be a very good idea but not completely required. I would still recommend it though. It's going to give you better handling, braking, and reduce suspension sag.

You referenced an Equal-i-zer system which is the best setup around but for the weight of your trailer you'd be best off with the part # EQ37060ET which has a tongue weight range of 200-600 lbs. You'd only also need a thin walled socket to install the hitch ball too with # ALL643216.

So the easiest to install brake controller that also works really well is the Curt Echo Mobile part # C51180. Basically this just plugs into an active 7-way and once you sync it to your phone it's ready to go. This brake controller is proportional which means it senses the amount of deceleration your tow vehicle is applying and applies the trailer brakes in a relative way.

expert reply by: Jameson C