Which Reese Dual Cam Weight Distribution for Towing 3460-lb Airstream Safari Trailer with BMW X5

Updated 07/02/2013 | Published 06/29/2013

Question:

I am looking to have a Reece hitch installed on a 2005 BMW X5, 3.01. The Airstream people are saying to get a 600 LB Rating Bar. The Hitch weight for the air stream 1976 23 Safari is 570 LBS. and the Total Weight is 3460 LBS. Could you please advise the model type I will need to have installed. Thank you

asked by: Robert D

Expert Reply:

Selection of a weight distribution and sway control system should be made based on the fully-loaded trailer tongue weight. It is important that the trailer be loaded and equipped just as it will be when towed, with full water and propane tanks, and all usual equipment and supplies, etc. Manufacturer specs can provide dry weight and unloaded tongue weight, but a properly-tuned weight distribution system depends on knowing the actual as-towed trailer tongue weight.

Tongue weight can be measured in several ways, and these methods are outlined in the linked article concerning weight distribution. The simplest method is to use a tongue weight scale such as the etrailer # e99044.

Weight Distribution systems can be used only with trailer hitch receivers that are rated for such applications. We offer a Class III 2-inch hitch receiver for the 2005 BMW X5 that is compatible with a weight distribution system. Draw-Tite # 75492 is rated for 600-lb maximum tongue weight. I have linked a hitch installation video for your reference. If there is already a hitch on your X5 you can check its safety sticker to confirm that it is rated for use with weight distribution.

Once you know the fully-loaded tongue weight of your Airstream Safari you can select a system based on that figure using the link provided. My research indicates that the 1976 Safari has electric trailer brakes, so I have limited the systems shown to those that are compatible with electric trailer brakes and that include the weight distribution shank. You can use the filters at the top of the page to select appropriate systems based on your measured trailer tongue weight.

For example, if your measured tongue weight is 700 lbs you could use the Reese Strait-Line Trunnion system, part # RP66083. This system fits trailer frames up to 2-1/2-inch wide and requires that the lift brackets mount 30 inches back from the hitch ball (and they occupy 5-1/2 inches of space on the frame). You would need to add only a hitch ball to complete this set up.

expert reply by: Adam R