Weight Distribution Hitch Recommendation for a 7K Enclosed Cargo Trailer with Aluminum Frame

Updated 06/19/2024 | Published 06/14/2024

Question:

looking for weight distribution hitch recommendation. Here is what I have. 2009 escalade load level suspension factory tow package. total trailer tow capabilities 8100 lbs per owners manual. Sticker on trailer hitch, 600lbs max tongue, 5000lbs max trailer with out WDH, 1000lbs max tongue and 10000lbs max trailer with WDH. Sricker on door 7300 lbs. trailer 8.5 wide 18 long aluminum tandem axle with steel sleeved tongue. Manufacturer says it can use a WDH as long as torsion bars are not too agressive. It is a 9 tall enclosed trailer. Tongue says 2100lbs max. gvwr of trailer, 7000lbs. Current trailer weight loaded and ready to tow, 5829 lbs with 450 lbs tongue weight. Caddillac s 2 when hooked up, and load leveling cannot make up. Alot of swaying when towing over 55mph. looking for hitch to improve overall towing and sway. Thank you for any recommendatons

asked by: David V

Expert Reply:

Hey David, thanks for all of the info - I'd be more than happy to help you choose a WDH!

For your application I recommend using the Blue Ox SwayPro # BXW0750 which has a tongue weight range of 550 lbs - 750 lbs and uses chains for sway control so they won't be as aggressive as the straight torsion bars.

I know this initially sounds like overkill for the weights that you referenced, but you'll actually need to adjust some thing around inside your trailer prior to installing the SwayPro. A properly loaded trailer will have a tongue weight that's 10-15% the weight of the trailer so at the very least your tongue weight should be 580 lbs when the trailer is loaded up to 5,829 lbs. By adding more tongue weight this will naturally help reduce some of that sway as well.

expert reply by: Jon G

David

6/17/2024

Thanks for the onfor.ation, and I willntake a look. While looking at some over the weekend on your sight I noticed that the have a max frame size. With mine having the metal sleeve. My frame height is 6.5 inches, and frame width is 2.5 inches. Would this be a problem? Thanks

Jon G.

6/17/2024

@David You won't have any issues with the SwayPro on your trailer setup.

David

6/19/2024

Based on a conversation with blue ox, this will not work. There is a bolt for the tongue sleeve that is in the way of the chain rotate. Have any other suggestions? The bolt is 27-3/4" back from center line of ball. It is a 1/2" bolt. With an 1-1/4" dia washer.

Jon G.

6/19/2024

@David With that being the case, you might try the Reese Dual Cam II # RP65FR and the Shank # RP69FR. This system allows you to mount the brackets a little further back at 30" which should be enough room for the brackets to fit and avoid that bolt and washer.