Weight Distribution for a 2004 Chevy Silverado and 4,400 Pound Dry Creekside Travel Trailer

Question:

I will be towing a travel trailer that is 4400 lbs dry weight and 410 lb hitch weight. Its a Creekside 20fq. My tow vehicle is a 2004 extended cab Silverado with a 5.3 liter V8. Im trying to determine which weight distribution hitch and sway system I need for this setup. Im new to this and was going to get a Class IV 1200 lb hitch but I think that may be too much. Ill be towing fulltime and want to make sure that I dont have too much or too little hitch for the job. What do you recommend? I appreciate any help you can give me. Ive attached a picture of the Creekside.

asked by: Elizabeth M

Expert Reply:

To choose a weight distribution system you will need to go by the total tongue weight of the set up. This is calculated by taking the tongue weight of the trailer, when loaded and ready to tow, and adding to that the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle.

It can be hard to estimate the capacity based on the try weight but some weight distribution systems have a tongue weight range. It is likely that when loaded the tongue weight will be greater than 410 pounds so we have a system that is rated for up to 600 pounds, # RP66558. And if the tongue weight falls into the 500 to 1,000 pound range you could use # RP66559. I have included some links on weight distribution and determining tongue weight that should help.

In either case you will need a ball, # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch. The included shank has a max rise of 8-3/4 inches and max drop of 4 inches. Other shanks are available separately if more rise or drop is needed.

It is also possible that the propane tank(s) and cover would have to be moved or something modified if it is within the range of where the weight distribution lift brackets need to attach to the frame.

expert reply by: Michael H