Can A 1,200 lb Weight Distribution Hitch Be Used On A 5,000 lb Trailer?

Updated 09/02/2025 | Published 06/30/2025

Question:

Weight distribution my truck tongue weight 880 lbs max, my trailer 5000 lbs can I use a 1200 lb weight distribution bars I have this set up from my last set I think they will work thanks steve

asked by: Stephen A

Expert Reply:

Hello Stephen, thanks for reaching out. The correct weight distribution (WD) hitch for your camper depends on the loaded tongue weight. Typically tongue weight will be around 10%-15% of the total weight meaning your tongue weight should be between 500 and 750 lbs.

Each WD hitch has a range of tongue weights it will work with, and you need to be sure your trailers tongue weight falls within this range. That way there will be adequate tension on the spring bars and the WD hitch will do its job. Too little, or too much weight will have negative effects.

So for example, if what you have is the Reese Pro Round Bar Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control # RE44FR, this will work on trailers with a tongue weight between 600 and 1,150 lbs. So as long as your tongue weight falls within that range, it would be ok to use. If not, you will need to change to a different WD hitch.

Do you happen to know your loaded tongue weight?

expert reply by: Jesse M

RE44FR
(click to enlarge)

Jesse M.

9/2/2025

Hey Stephen, did you find out your loaded tongue weight to see if the Reese Pro Round Bar Weight Distribution with Sway Control is a good fit? I'm asking because knowing the outcome could help others with similar setups.