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Best Economical Weight Distribution Hitch for a Forest River Salem 179DBK  

Updated 06/12/2026 | Published 06/11/2026

Question:

I have a Forest River Salem 179dbk. It has a tongue weight of 550-730 lbs. Which weight distribution/sway bar system would you recommend that is economical? A Ram 2500 Power Wagon will be pulling the rv. Thanks, Russell

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Expert Reply:

Hi Russell,

For your Forest River Salem 179DBK, I think the Curt TruTrack 2P Weight Distribution System with Sway Control part # C95MJ is going to be your best value, especially if you're looking for something economical that still provides solid sway control and weight distribution. It is rated for tongue weights between 500 and 800 pounds, which lines up well with the tongue weight range you provided. The integrated sway control helps keep the trailer planted and predictable, which can make a big difference when dealing with crosswinds, passing traffic, or uneven road conditions.

Your Ram 2500 Power Wagon is certainly more than capable of handling a trailer of this size, but a properly matched weight distribution system can still improve ride quality and towing confidence. The Curt TruTrack has earned a lot of positive feedback from customers because it provides effective sway control without adding a lot of complexity to the setup.

One thing I did notice is that the 730 pound tongue weight seems a bit high compared to the trailer's 4,865 pound GVWR. It's not impossible, especially if the trailer is loaded with gear concentrated toward the front, but I would double check that figure just to make sure you're working with an accurate loaded tongue weight. Having the correct tongue weight helps ensure you end up with the best performing weight distribution system.

If your Power Wagon has the factory 2 1/2 inch receiver, you'll also need to purchase the 2-1/2" shank such as part # C17131. If you find that your trailer sits significantly nose high or nose low when connected, the longer drop shank part # C17132 may be a better fit. The easiest way to determine that is to measure from the ground to the top inside edge of your truck's receiver and compare it to the height of the trailer coupler when the trailer is sitting level.

Where do you plan to take the 179DBK most often, into the mountains, across windy plains, or mostly local weekend trips?

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