Can Weight Distribution System Be Used to Increase Tongue Weight Capacity for Cargo Carrier
Updated 10/30/2025 | Published 10/04/2025
Question:
I had the Curt 12516 Hitch Installed on my 2006 Suzuki Vitara when we purchased the car back in 2007. It has worked great. From what I have been reading on your website, I have a couple questions. 1 We are thinking about installing a cargo carrying assembly in the hitch receiver. I am understanding the weight limit for one of these set-ups is 350lbs? and 2 Your info states the weight limit can be increased to 400lbs with a weight distribution system? What is that? I used to work at an RV center so I have installed hundreds of hitches and weight distribution set ups but I cant picture what it would be on something like this. Please let me know and if you have any pictures, I would greatly appreciate any info you may have. Thanks
asked by: Michael D
Expert Reply:
Hey Michael, so with a cargo carrier there isn't a way to increase the tongue weight capacity beyond the 350 lb of the Curt hitch that you have. The only way a weight distribution system can be used is in a towing setup as there's no way to make it work with a cargo carrier. So if you were towing a trailer and then using a WD system you would have an increased towing capacity but not with a carrier.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- For Towing
- Class III
- 350 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 4000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 400 lbs WD TW
- Visible Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
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Jameson C.
10/30/2025
Hey Michael, did that clear things up about using a cargo carrier with your Curt hitch on the Vitara? It’d be great to know if the explanation about weight distribution systems made sense for your setup. Your feedback could help others sorting out the same question.