Can I Increase Tongue Weight of 2017 Mercedes Benz GLS 550 With an Aftermarket Hitch  

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I'll start out by saying that a trailer hitch does not determine your vehicle's tongue weight rating or towing capacity, these are determined by your vehicle and when it comes to adding components to the equation you're always going to be limited to the lowest rated component. If your vehicle has a tongue weight capacity of 600-lbs, but the hitch says 900-lbs- you're still only safe with putting 600-lbs of tongue weight on the vehicle. The best source of information on what your capacities are is going to be the owner's manual of your vehicle, so I would recommend checking what yours lists as the actual tongue capacity for the 2017 Mercedes Benz GLS 550.

When it comes to adding the Curt # C13190 hitch, this hitch is a confirmed fit on your vehicle and, assuming that your vehicle can actually handle 900-lbs of tongue weight capacity would be a good choice to allow you to utilize that additional weight. However, the C13190 is not compatible with a weight distribution hitch, so that's not really going to be an option for you because of the added stress it's going to put on the frame of the vehicle.

With all of that said, if you're worried about sway in the trailer while towing, you should have a look at the Tuson Asymmetric Sway Control # 335TSC-1000 which will activate your trailer's brakes to help keep the trailer under control during sway situations. This installs on the trailer frame and inline with your trailer wiring so you don't have to worry about remembering to connect it each time you tow.

I've linked a great video about the Sway Master for you to have a look at, as well.

expert reply by: Erik B

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