How to Select and Install Weight Distribution System on Trailer with Limited Frame Access

Question:

I wondering if I can install a weight distribution hitch on my v nose trailer? I have a pic, not much room. ATC trailer 6x2inch frame rails and I have a trailer valet bracket installed. Email me back and Ill send the pic

asked by: Tom E

Expert Reply:

When a trailer has a V-nose design that blocks access to the frame rails, or tongue-mounted accessory items like propane tanks and trailer jacks the best way to install a weight distribution (WD) system is with bolt-on brackets that can be installed from just the outside of the frame.

Reese part # RP58305 and Curt part # C17005 bolt on to the side surface of the trailer frame rails and can even be installed under a V-nose overhang, propane cover or tool box as shown in the linked photo. You do need to take note of the required mounting distance for these bolt-on hangers from the center of the hitch ball, which is about 31-inches. With these installed you can use a WD system like the Reese Strait-Line # RP66084 which works for a tongue weight (TW) range from 600- to 1200-lbs. This particular system would be ideal for a TW of 900-lbs.

WD systems are selected based on the fully-loaded trailer TW, with propane and water tanks full, and all your food, supplies and sporting gear in place. Scale # e99044 makes it easy to measure trailer TW. To the loaded trailer TW you need to add any cargo weight in the Tahoe that sits behind the rear axle, say a big loaded cooler or a generator, since this will act like trailer TW. Add these two weights together and you're ready to select a system. This total TW should fall in the middle of the operating range for the system you select, as in the example above.

Please refer to the linked video and article for more on WD systems.