Weight Distribution for a 4000 Pound Trailer with 400 Pound Tongue Weight
Updated 10/12/2009 | Published 10/09/2009
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Question:
My trailer gvw is 4000, tongue weight 400. I was told I didnt need a special hitch with a light weight trailer. However, when I hook up the trailer, my trailblazer rear end s about 4 inches. The trailer looks level but the back end of the car is really dipped. Any suggestions?
asked by: Thomas G
Expert Reply:
If the rear end of your vehicle sags significantly when the trailer is hooked up then you could have an unsafe condition and your front end and tires will not wear properly. The weight is taken off of the front wheels of the vehicle and can cause loss of control, especially when towing in adverse conditions such as rain, snow, high winds or if a sudden maneuver has to be made.
A weight distribution system will level out the vehicle and distribute the tongue weight between the vehicles axles and trailers axles. When installing a weight distribution system you will be able to set it up so that the vehicles ride height, front and rear, is the same as it is when not hooked to the trailer.
To select the proper weight distribution system you need to know the gross weight and the tongue weight of your trailer fully loaded and ready to travel. Once you know these weights you can select a weight distribution system that will work with your trailer and vehicle and will provide the best ride possible also. Selecting a weight distribution system that is to small will stress the system parts and not provide the correct amount of weight transfer to the axles of the vehicle and trailer. A system that is rated to high will cause a rough, stiff ride. You need to select a system that has a weight capacity range that your trailers tongue weight will fit into.
If your trailer has a 400 pound tongue weight and 4,000 pound gross weight when fully loaded and ready to travel I would recommend the Reese Heavy Duty Round Bar Weight Distribution System, 600 lbs, item # RP65509. This system allows for tongue weights between 200 and 600 pounds and would be sized correctly for the trailer weights you have indicated, while allowing for Extra loading should your gear weight change somewhat over time. If you are concerned about sway control you can also add the Dual Cam High Performance Sway Control, item # RP26002, to the system which is the best sway control design and counteracts sway before it begins.
If you find that your tongue weight is over 400 pounds but less than 750 pounds then you can select the Reese Heavy Duty Round Bar Weight Distribution System, 750 lbs, item # RP67509, which will also accept the dual cam sway control mentioned.
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