How Much Weight Is Transferred To Front Axle When Using Weight Distribution System on 12K Trailer

Updated 01/20/2021 | Published 01/17/2021

Question:

When using weight distribution hitch to re-distribute tongue weight of trailer to front wheels of tow vehicle and wheels on trailer. Assuming a tongue weight of 1200 lbs and re-distribute 300 lbs of that equality to front of tow vehicle and trailer wheels meaning the tongue weight of the trailer is now 600 lbs. The total tongue weight now transferred to tow vehicle is now 900 lbs. That would mean that a tow vehicle with a payload of 2000 lbs would be reduced to 1100 lbs because the re-distribute tongue weight is 900 lbs instead of the original tongue weight of 1200 lbs.

asked by: James W

Expert Reply:

The Curt TruTrack Weight Distribution System part # C17501 is a great option for a 1,200 lb tongue weight and what I recommended. The system will force the tongue weight of the trailer towards the front of the vehicle this is true. I wouldn't be able to speculate on the amount as there are too many factors. However, this can be done though the use of scales. The scales semi use will allow you to determine how much weight is added to the front axle of the tow vehicle with the weight distribution system attached.

Unfortunately, I cannot recommend you knowingly exceed vehicle capacities but engineers are aware of this as many hitches have increased ratings when a weight distribution system is used.

expert reply by: Conner L