Weight Distribution Recommendation for a 2002 Dodge Grand Caravan Towing a Rockwood A122S

Published 04/04/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Reese Weight Distribution - No Shank - Trunnion Bar - 6,000 lbs GTW, 600 lbs TW

(64)

$720.65

2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-3/4" Long Shank - Chrome - 12,000 lbs

(2640)

$23.42

2" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000

(4036)

$19.18

Question:

If you dont mind, I need your recommendation for a weight distribution hitch. I already has a Curt Class III trailer hitch installed on my van. The trailers Rockwood A122S dry tongue weight is 283 lb, users on Rockwood forum say the loaded tongue weight should be somewhere 350 lb to 400 lb. My tow vehicle is 2002 grand caravan rear seats say 110 lb are removed, but its own tongue weight could be still 100 lb during a family travel. So I guess the total tongue weight could be approximately 500 lb. I am considering Reese 66020, 66082 or Pro series PS49582. BTW, my trailer hitch said its W/D tongue weight is 500 lb. Can I have your recommendation for this subject

asked by: Sean

Expert Reply:

The most important figure to consider when picking out a weight distribution system is the loaded tongue weight of your setup, this also includes the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. I attached an FAQ article on determining tongue weight for you to check out.

Your calculations sound like they would be pretty accurate, so with that in mind the Reese Weight Distribution w/out Shank # RP66020 would be an excellent choice for a weight distribution system as this system has a range of 200-600 lbs. You should note that this system does not include a shank. For that you would want the Reese Weight Distribution Shank # RP54970.

But for an even better choice I would go with the Strait-Line Weight Distribution System part # RP66082 that you also referenced since it comes with a shank and the only sway control system on the market that proactively fights to prevent sway before it starts. This system also uses trunnion bars instead of round bars which can greatly help with ground clearance, which can be an issue on lower vehicles like your Grand Caravan.

The Pro Series Weight Distribution System # PS49582 that you also referenced is a great economical option if your tongue weight was going to be a little higher, but its a little to high rated and the fact that it has round bars I do not think it would be your best option.

If you need a 2 inch ball I would go with a part # A-90 or a 2-5/16 ball I would go with the # 19286.

I also attached an FAQ article on weight distribution systems for you to check out.

Lastly, be sure not to exceed the tongue weight rating of your hitch or your tow vehicle. Check the owners manual to be sure you have the manufacturer's okay to tow that much weight.