Does Adding a Weight Distribution System Increase a Hitch's Gross Tongue Weight Capacity

Question

Question:

Will adding a WD hit hitch to a 2021 bmw x5e increase the tongue weight capacity?

asked by: Monte

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

A weight distribution system does not increase a hitch's tongue weight capacity. Rather, it takes weight off of the tongue, helping loads stay stable and level.

In other words, if you use a trailer without a weight distribution system with a tongue weight that is just under the hitch's gross tongue weight capacity, it can cause the rear of your vehicle to sag. The weight distribution system evens things out by re-distributing weight across all the axles of the towing setup.

I've linked to a help article that can explain weight distribution systems in more detail if you'd like to take a look at it.

One thing to look out for is a hitch's capacity with a weight distribution system. If a hitch is rated for use with a weight distribution system (it will be noted on the hitch's page), it can help get the most out of the hitch.

As an example, the Draw-Tite Custom Fit Hitch for a 2019 Ram 3500, part # DT45509, has a higher gross tongue weight capacity when used with a weight distribution system. It all depends on which hitch you have, so be sure to compare those numbers on the hitch's page.

expert reply by: Kef G

1

Answer 1

If your Ridgeline is equipped with the factory tow package, you can use the Tekonsha Wiring Adapter, part #3070-P to connect a controller. The presence of the factory 7-way trailer connector on the rear bumper is a sure indication that your Ridgeline…

view full answer...

Answer 2

Since your 2011 Honda Ridgeline already has a trailer hitch receiver like the Draw-Tite #75280, there are just a few other parts you'll need in order to tow. For a wiring harness you will need to add the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness #118491. To…

view full answer...

Answer 3

If you are wanting to use a Friction Sway Control Kit, like part #83660, then all you will need is the Reese Sway-Control Bracket #RP26003 for your 2 inch ball mount. As convenient as the price of a sway control kit is, I highly recommend going with…

view full answer...

Answer 4

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

view full answer...

Answer 5

Hey Terry, I went out to the warehouse and got both the Curt #C32NR and Hopkins #HM40978 in my hands to see which was the stronger option. Both brackets are the same thickness but the Hopkins bracket has two indentations in it that give it more…

view full answer...

Answer 6

That's a good question, but coil springs like the Firestone Coil-Rite Air Helper Springs #F4175 do not have to fill up the entire vertical space of the spring during installation. What you are seeing in regards to photos is likely the spring…

view full answer...

Answer 7

The Equil-i-zer Weight Distribution with 4-Point Sway Control, like #EQ37041ET, differs from the Fastway e2 Weight Distribution with 2-Point Sway Control #FA92-00-0450, because it does utilize 2 more points of steel-on-steel friction at the head of…

view full answer...

Answer 8

Usually when a vehicle has an auto-leveling feature it won't be compatible with air bags as they would be working against each other. With that being said, the Firestone Coil-Rite Air Helper Springs #F4150 on your 2021 Nissan Armada are an…

view full answer...

Answer 9

Yes, all hitches have a tongue weight and towing capacity weight rating for standard towing. However, some hitches additionally have adjusted tongue weight and towing capacity weight ratings when used in conjunction with a weight distribution hitch…

view full answer...

Answer 10

Hello Sonya, thanks for reaching out. The Weigh Safe True Tow Weight Distribution Hitch #WS79VR will work nicely with the Ember Overland 190MSL. The weigh safe WD hitch is made for trailer with a GVWR under 8,500 lbs, and the 190MSL has a 5,815 lb…

view full answer...

Answer 11

I can't recommend a weight distribution hitch for your 2019 Audi Q5 because your vehicle design prohibits it. I can recommend the Draw-Tite #76183 standard Class-III hitch paired with a Curt #17200 Sway Bar. The benefit of using a weight…

view full answer...

Answer 12

The correct replacement for your old Lippert 163033 Step is the Kwikee Electric RV Step Complete Assembly #LC3691461. This kit is the complete assembly so it'll have everything you need to replace your old worn out one. I've attached a video…

view full answer...

Does Adding a Weight Distribution System Increase a Hitch's Gross Tongue Weight Capacity

Featured Help Information

Miscellaneous Media

Continue Researching