How to Best Correct Rear End Sag in 2011 Silverado 1500 Towing 2015 Coachman Travel Trailer
Updated 09/04/2014 | Published 09/01/2014
Question:
I have a 2011 Silverado 1500 4WD EXT Cab LT Z71 that I am towing a Coachmen 2015 Freedom Express 233 model: 2333RBS travel trailer. hitch weight 635 lbs. base weight 4471 lbs. GVWR 7000 lbs. Cargo Capacity 2487 lbs. Witch makes my truck sage a little. What is the pros and cons of a strait-line weight distribution system code RP66084 vs a firestone ride-rite air helper spring system code F2430.
asked by: Kenneth L
Expert Reply:
Although both a weight distribution system and a rear axle air bag kit will affect the behavior of the rear suspension on your 2011 Silverado 1500, for sag caused by the tongue weight of a travel trailer you will be much better served by installing a weight distribution system such as the Reese Strait-Line # RP66084. Air bags are ideal for leveling uneven loads in the truck bed and for dealing with widely varying payloads, but for the consistent weight of a travel trailer your ride quality and braking/steering performance will improve much more with a weight distribution system.
First you need to double-check that your hitch is rated for use with weight distribution (its safety sticker will indicate this). Next you will need to measure your trailer's tongue weight when it is fully loaded in its ready-to-tow state, with full water and propane tanks and all gear and supplies in place. The linked article offers several ways to measure tongue weight, including a simple scale from etrailer, part # e99044. You need to add to this the weight of anything in the truck bed positioned behind the rear axle, such as a loaded cooler or generator. Dry hitch weight does not tell the whole story.
It is important to select a system that is tuned properly for your trailer's actual tongue weight. If the spring bars are too stiff the ride quality will be jumpy and erratic; if they are too flexible you will not get the full benefit from moving trailer weight forward onto the Silverado's front axle. Measuring is key.
Once you know your tongue weight you can use the link provided to see systems that include sway prevention. Click on the filters in the left margin to choose your total effective tongue weight and the type of brakes on your trailer to see compatible systems. The system you referenced, Reese # RP66084, is a great choice if your effective tongue weight is in the 800-900-lb range.
I have also linked an article on weight distribution that will give you plenty of background to help you make your choice.
