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Is Weight Distribution Needed for 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 Towing 2019 Keystone Hideout 22RBWE  

Updated 02/03/2026 | Published 01/19/2026

Question:

Im new to RVing- Bought a 2019 Keystone Hideout 22 RB WE last May. I am curious about weight distribution/ anti sway hitches. Are they truly needed? How is towing improved? How is towing and backing up changed? Which might be best for me and my needs? I pull with a 2019 Chevy Silverado, 5.3 liter V8 equipped with a towing package. I would appreciate any guidance that you can offer. Thank you. Rex K.

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

Hey Rex! Those are some great questions. A weight distribution hitch (WDH) isn't always needed but in your case you will want one. Typically if the weight of your trailer is more than 50% of the weight of your vehicle it is a good idea to use a WDH. If you are getting a lot of rear sag, trailer sway, or find it hard to stop or steer those are also good reasons to use one.

I'm assuming based on that engine you have a 2019 Silverado 1500. The GVWR of your Keystone Hideout is 7,600 lbs so that alone makes it a good idea. I tow a trailer with a similar weight, using a slightly heavier vehicle, and I definitely would not want to tow it without a WDH. Towing is improved by distributing the weight evenly to level you out and by reducing sway so you're in control of the trailer and it doesn't feel like it's the other way around.

You want to choose a system based on the loaded tongue weight of your setup. Tongue weight is typically 10-15% of the trailer weight. This will put you at 760-1,140 lbs if we base it on the GVWR of the trailer. You will also need to account for anything behind the rear axle in your truck since that counts as tongue weight.

For a great all around option that is beginner friendly I recommend the Weigh Safe True Tow Weight Distribution Hitch # WS94RR. This WDH is rated for 1,250 lbs tongue weight and has a built in scale. Between the scale, the app, and the adjustment screw you will be able to get the hitch set up perfectly every single time, whether you're fully loaded or headed back with an empty trailer.

What trip are you planning with the Hideout?

expert reply by:
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Robin H
Weigh Safe True Tow
Weigh Safe True Tow
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Rex profile picture

Rex

2/3/2026

A follow up to your response. Im curious if there is another weight distribution hitch model that you could recommend? As I said, new to the RV world and honestly unsure if its something my wife and I will enjoy. Is there a less costly option that would still provide quality performance for my situation? Thank you.

Robin H. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Robin H.

2/3/2026

@Rex sure I understand. If you end up towing a lot the Weigh Safe is an option you wouldn't regret. If you only take the trailer out a couple times a year something less comprehensive would be fine. Without the built in scale and the ability to really dial that in I do recommend using a tongue weight scale like the # BW34KR so you know where you sit. For a slight step down and 4-point sway control the Equal-i-zer system is the best choice. A step below that with 2-point sway control would be Fastway, made by Equal-i-zer. You can choose from the following based on tongue weight: -Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control # EQ37100ET (600 lbs - 1,000 lbs) -Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control # EQ37120ET (800 lbs - 1,200 lbs) -Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control # FA92-00-1000 (600 lbs - 1,000 lbs) -Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control # FA92-00-1200 (800 lbs - 1,200 lbs) The Fastway systems will also require a hitch ball like # 19286 since it is not included.

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