Towing a 5,400 Pound Horse Trailer with a 2005 Chevy Avalanche

Updated 06/30/2014 | Published 06/27/2014

Question:

Hi, I have a 2005 Chevy Avalanche 4X41500 with the 5.3L engine and factory installed towing package not the Z71. With the GVWR stated as 7,000 lbs. The hitch states weight carrying of 6,000 and tongue 600 lbs. I just purchased an aluminum 2 horse bumper pull trailer with up front tack area that weighs in at 2,440. With 2- 1,200 lb horses and some tack, the trailer will probably be around 5,400+ lbs. Pulling the trailer empty home about 100 miles of interstate I barely knew it was back there and didnt have any sway trailers only 13.5foot long. What weight distribution hitch would you recommend or would you even recommend one? The trailer has a steel plate that covers the entire a-frame/top between the hitch and the trailer. So hooking anything on is not an option without modification. Im looking for a total package with WD hitch and whatever receiver ped lower and accessories I would need. Sorry for the long post. This is my first trailer and pulling anything experience. Thanks for your help,

asked by: Dave B

Expert Reply:

The first thing I recommend is to check out the towing capacity of the hitch you have installed on your 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche 1500 4 X 4 . You will want to make sure the hitch is rated to be able to use a weight distribution system and you do not want to exceed the towing capacity of the lowest rated component of a system.

You will want to make sure your trailer is capable of using a weight distribution system. Many aluminum trailers do not allow weight distribution. If it is not stated on a plate or sticker on the trailer you will want to check with the trailer manufacturer to make sure the trailer can use a weight distribution system.

There are a couple of factors you need to know for a weight distribution system. The Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), which is the weight of the fully loaded ready-to-tow trailer, and the Tongue Weight (TW), which is the tongue weight of the trailer and the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your Avalanche. I have attached a helpful article that explains weight distribution and what is needed you can check out.

If you find you are able to use weight distribution, you can send me the information needed and I will be happy to help make some recommendations that would work for you.

It can be a hassle but you want to be sure you are safe when towing anything, especially valuable cargo like your horses and yourself.

If your hitch is rated for only 5000 lbs, I recommend upgrading to the Curt Trailer Hitch # C15324 which has a much higher 16,000 lb towing capacity and a 2400 lb tongue weight capacity. This is a Class V hitch and has a 2 inch receiver opening.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L