Weight Distribution vs Suspension Enhancement to Level a Sagging 2004 Chevy Suburban when Towing
Updated 08/19/2013 | Published 08/17/2013
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Question:
I have a 2004 Chevy Surburban 1500. I just purchased a toy hauler pop up a that has a tongue weight of 700#s. This is with all of our camping gear loaded in the pop up, water, propane, batteries etc. In addition, we may add another 200# of gear in the back of our Suburban. The first time out I could tell the suburban was squatting badly. So I have ordered air bags for the coils to assist with the weight. The gross vehicle weight loaded for the pop up is 4000#. So the weight I am pulling is not much I have more concern about the weight being placed on the rear axle of the suburban. I am planning on upgrading to a heavy duty hitch and liked how the #41930 extends farther back on the suburban frame. I realize its probably more than I need but I like the design. My main question would be if the suspension and hitch #41930 can handle the weight would I still have to buy a weight distribution setup?
asked by: Hawkins S
Expert Reply:
Draw-Tite trailer hitch # 41930 will have no problem handling the weight but you will need to check the Suburbans owners manual to determine what its capacities are and do not exceed them.
The best way to level out a vehicle when it squats due to heavy tongue weight is weight distribution. You would not use both suspension enhancement and weight distribution at the same time because they can work against each other and you will not get any real benefit.
Also, using suspension enhancement does not reduce the stress on the rear axle, though it can help level the vehicle. Using weight distribution will help to transfer the tongue weight more evenly to all axles of the tow vehicle and trailer.
Since you are already going to use suspension enhancement I recommend seeing how that works out first before doing anything else. If it does not offer the leveling you are seeking then I recommend going to a weight distribution set up instead.
The trailer tongue weight at 700 pounds is fairly heavy but then you have to add in the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the Suburban in order to pick out the correct weight distribution system. A system like # RP66542 is rated for up 1,200 pounds tongue weight and would work for you.
You would just need to add a properly sized ball and sway control if desired. For a 2 inch ball use # A-90 and for a 2-5/16 inch ball use # 19286. For sway control you can use a friction bar, # 83660.
