How to Choose Weight Distribution Hitch Based on Tongue Weight

Published 11/27/2024

Products Featured in This Question

Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control for 2" Hitch - 5.5K GTW, 550 lbs TW

(495)

$817.39

Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control for 2" Hitch - 7.5K GTW, 750 lbs TW

(495)

$874.95

Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 6,000 lbs GTW, 600 lbs TW

(858)

$850.00

Question:

Hello! Considering Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control for 2 Hitch - 5.5K GTW, 550 lbs TW but not sure its correct. TV has max 600lb tongue weight so is that value I should go with when choosing WDH? Or is it the anticipated trailer tongue weight which varies from ~400-500lbs. Thanks!

asked by: David M

Expert Reply:

Hi David; you're on the right track with the tongue weight. The tongue weight capacity of your tow vehicle doesn't play a role in choosing a weight distribution hitch (WDH) aside from knowing your vehicle limitations. For a WDH you want to choose based on the actual tongue weight of your loaded setup. If you anticipate the tongue weight of your setup to fluctuate between 400 and 500 lbs then the # BXW0550 would be perfect.

The Blue Ox SwayPro # BXW0550 has a tongue weight range of 350 lbs - 550 lbs. This means your anticipated tongue weight will fall into the range of the system at the high and low end. Keep in mind, tongue weight also includes any cargo behind the rear axle of your tow vehicle. If you think you will end up above 550 lbs most of the time accounting for that extra weight then the # BXW0750 might be a better choice with a range of 550 lbs - 750 lbs.

expert reply by: Robin H

David M.

11/27/2024

Thanks Robin-very helpful. Do you like the Blue Ox or is there another brand/model I should consider?

Robin H.

11/27/2024

@DavidM it is a good system overall that is quiet and easy to setup. If I was making a recommendation it would have been the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System # EQ37060ET. Equal-i-zer makes a really great product because weight distribution is their only business. This particular model has a 200-600 lb tongue weight range.