Does Weight Distribution Hitch Recommendation Change Based On If Fresh Water Tank Is Full VS Empty?

Updated 02/23/2026 | Published 02/19/2026

Products Featured in This Question

B&W Continuum Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control for 2" Hitch - 16K GTW, 1.6K TW

(164)

$1299.00

Big Truck Big RV Tongue Weight Scale for Trailers - 1,000 lbs - Fixed

(107)

$110.13

B&W Continuum Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control for 2.5" Hitch - 16K GTW, 1.6K TW

(164)

$1319.00

Question:

Hi. I have a question about tongue weight sizing on a weight distribution hitch. Is it better to over the rated weight or under? My fresh water tank, for instance, is located in front of my trailer’s axles and it’s about 40 gallons. I very rarely fill it when I tow. So should I include that weight and have the system oversized most of the time? Or not include it to have it correct most of the time, but undersized when I do carry water?

asked by: Russell W

Expert Reply:

Hey Russell, that's a really good and tricky question actually.

So, you definitely want to stay within the weight rating of the weight distribution hitch for the best and safest experience. It's not ideal to go over or under. The fresh water tank will likely affect the tongue weight, but I don't think it will affect it quite as much as you're thinking. Since it is tucked behind the front nose of the trailer, and not actually on the tongue section, it shouldn't completely change what WDH is needed just based on it being empty or full.

I highly recommend getting a tongue weight scale such as # BTBRV004 so you can see what the tongue weight is when tank is empty vs full, and find a system that works with both weights. If you can let me know, or at least tell me what your travel trailer weight is or the model, I can find a system that will be good for you. Typically, a WDH has a decent range to accommodate for variations such as the water tank dilemma you are facing.

If you want to make absolutely sure you're going to be fine, I'd get the high quality B&W Continuum Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control for 2" Hitch # BW78FR which has a huge tongue weight range 600lbs - 1,600lbs (also available in 2-1/2" version # BW28FR). Let me know what you think Russell!

expert reply by: Andrew N