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What Weight Distribution Hitch and Brake Controller do I Need for My 34' Travel Trailer GVWR 9,600?  

Updated 09/29/2025 | Published 05/09/2025

Question:

Hello, i am looking for a recommendation for a weight distribution hitch and a trailer break controller. I will be pulling a travel trailer 34 foot total length 6800lb dry 9600 gvwr with a ram 1500 quad cab 4x4 with 5.7 hemi. I will likely be closer to dry weight in the trailer as i dont plan on hauling water but will have some miscellaneous items in the camper. Any input would be appreciated. Thanks ! Henry

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Expert Reply:

Hello Henry,

When choosing the correct weight distribution system, you want to be as close to your loaded tongue weight as possible. Typically, tongue weight falls between 10–15% of your overall trailer weight. If you were at the heaviest tongue weight based on your dry weight, 15% of 6,800 pounds would be about 1,020 pounds.

My current favorite system is the Weigh Safe True Tow Weight Distribution Hitch - 2" Shank - 6" Drop - 12.5K GTW, 1.2K TW # WS94RR. I really like this system because it takes a lot of the guesswork out, helping you get optimal performance. It has a built-in scale, just hook up your trailer, open the app on your smartphone, answer a few quick questions, and it tells you exactly how and where to install everything for the best results. The # WS94RR is designed for a loaded tongue weight of 850–1,250 pounds. If you're confident you'll be on the lighter side and won’t exceed 850 pounds of tongue weight, you’ll want to go with # WS79VR instead. I also attached a video my buddy Brad put together, he explains the system really well.

Another excellent option is the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 10,000 lbs GTW, 1,000 lbs TW # EQ37100ET. It supports a tongue weight of 600–1,000 pounds, which puts you right in the sweet spot. This system uses straight spring bars and brackets, which I personally think distribute weight better than chain-style systems. It doesn’t include a scale or app, but it's just as effective once properly dialed in.

As for a brake controller, the one I always recommend for all my friends and family, is the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller w/ Custom Harness - Up to 4 Axles - Proportional # TK89UR. This includes the vehicle-specific harness for your Ram 1500. It covers model years 2015–2024, so if your truck falls outside that range, just let me know. I have set up a lot of people with this controller and have only had great feedback!

Got your first big trip planned once everything’s set up? If so, where are you headed?





expert reply by:
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Kate F
Weigh Safe Built-In Scale
Weigh Safe Built-In Scale
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Prodigy P3 Dimensions
Prodigy P3 Dimensions
(click to enlarge)
Kate F. profile picture

Kate F.

9/29/2025

Hey Henry, Did you find a weight distribution hitch and brake controller that worked well for your setup? I'd love to hear how it went, as it could help others with similar towing needs.

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