Recommended Weight Distribution System for a 7,780 GVWR Horse Trailer

Updated 01/02/2025 | Published 12/24/2024

Products Featured in This Question

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

(63)

$685.75

Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control for 2" Hitch - 10,000 lbs GTW, 1,000 lbs TW

(498)

$758.30

Reese Weight Distribution w/out Shank - Trunnion Bar - 8,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs TW

(63)

$660.10

Question:

RP66020 Reese Weight Distribution - No Shank - Trunnion Bar - 6,000 lbs GTW, 600 lbs TW This was recommended for our horse trailer. Is it ok that it is rated for 6,000 lbs even though trailer GVWR is 7780? Can’t imagine we will be hauling the trailer to its max

asked by: Jennifer H

Expert Reply:

Hey Jennifer, great question!

You don't have to have a weight distribution hitch (WDH) system rated for the full GVWR of your trailer, but you do need to make sure it's rated high enough to handle the loaded tongue weight of your trailer. If your tongue weight (when fully loaded up) doesn't exceed 600 lbs then the Reese Weight Distribution # RP66020 will work just fine.

In my experience it's best to get a WDH rated for at least the GVWR because the weight range gives you the flexibility to tow a wide range of loads. To upgrade the Reese system you're looking at to the appropriate weight you'll need the part # RP66021, but I actually recommend going with the Blue Ox SwayPro # BLU66FR instead.

I know initially the price looks a bit intimidating compared to the Reese, but this Blue Ox kit comes with everything you need right out of the box while the Reese still needs parts, and once you choose all of them it will end up being about the same price as the Blue Ox anyways.

I'm attaching some videos of these systems for you to check out on your own as well.

expert reply by: Jon G

Jennifer H.

1/1/2025

Thank you. We purchased RP66021 Reese Weight Distribution w/out Shank - Trunnion Bar - 8,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs TW Now we need a new shank because ours does not have enough drop. What shank do you recommend that has allows for a 6” drop on an adjustable ball mount to go with this system? 2” hitch opening

Jon G.

1/2/2025

@JenniferH For that you need the Curt Weight Distribution Shank # C17121. This is a different brand shank, but it still fits and works the same and it gives you the drop you're needing.