Is Weight Distribution Hitch Best For Leveling Ride When Towing 8,000 lb Trailer

Updated 12/22/2025 | Published 10/02/2024

Products Featured in This Question

2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000 lbs

(3870)

$21.50

Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW

(112)

$602.26

Question:

I have a 1999 silverado 1500 extended cab 5.3 I am towing a large trailer. Truck towing is listed as 8200 and the max trailer is 9990. It is a mobil store with less than the 8200 weight. I understand air bags would cause a rough ride when empty. I had shocks with helper springs that worked well. I leaning toward air shocks. Would a eq hitch be better

asked by: Richard H

Expert Reply:

Hi Richard,

Since you aren't looking to mess with the unloaded ride of your Chevy truck, a weight distribution hitch is definitely the best option to stay level while you're towing your trailer. Since you mentioned it being less than the 8,200 weight, I'll assume it's at about 7,000 or 8,000 lbs so what I recommend for you is a system from Fastway:

- Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control # FA92-00-1200

This is rated for tongue weights between 800 lbs and 1,200 lbs, which you should be at with your trailer weight, and will keep your truck level while also providing sway control, which is pretty important on a big trailer like you have.

I also like the Fastway because it is high quality and yet a really good value for a weight distribution hitch. It comes with a shank so the only other thing you'd need is a hitch ball, the 2-5/16" Hitch Ball # A-6.

expert reply by: Kyle S

Jerred H.

12/22/2025

Hey Richard, how did things go with the Fastway weight distribution hitch on your Silverado when towing your mobile store trailer? Your update could make it easier for the next person trying to balance ride comfort and stability.