Recommended Weight Distribution System with Sway Control for 500-lbs Tongue Weight Trailer

Updated 08/11/2021 | Published 08/10/2021

Question:

I have a 2020 ford F150 with the maximum tow package. We have a Jayco X20E trailer that I towed across the county in June I experienced sway with the wind and pushing with tractor trailers passing. Im looking for the correct weight rating weight distribution/sway control hitch right now Ive been leaning toward the Reese Steadi flex 600 lb. tongue 6000 lb TW. from what I see in the specs for this hitch it goes from 400-600 lb. tongue weight and 4000-6000lb. trailer weight. The specs from my Jayco are trailer weight from the factory 3920lb., it has an 830 lb. cargo weight that gives it its maximum GVWR of 4750. I did a bathroom scale tongue weight with a full tank of water and the trailer loaded with our personal affects. The tongue weight came in at 504 lb. I feel the trailer is over the recommendation for the lower rate 400/4000 lb. Reese and Im thinking that I should move up to the 600/6000 lb. Reese steadi flex. any recommendations, should I look at a different brand? I like the mounting versatility of the steadi flex.

asked by: Ted

Helpful Expert Reply:

The best way to choose a weight distribution system is based off the tongue weight of your trailer; ideally it will fall right in the middle of the prescribed tongue weight range of the system.

Based off of the 504-lbs tongue weight you've measured, the Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 6K GTW, 600 TW # RP66558 is a great choice and a much better fit than your 400/4000-lbs rated system. I really like that the Steadi-Flex is easy to install and, like you mentioned, the brackets give you some versatility in the size of the trailer frame it can be mounted on.

This system comes with the shank included, but you will need a hitch ball with a 1 inch shank like the # 63845 (2" hitch ball) or # 63847 (2-5/16" hitch ball).

expert reply by: Erik B