How Much Sag is OK Before Weight Distribution Hitch is Needed
Question:
if I make measurements from the fender to the ground on my truck with and without my trailer attached, how much height variation is acceptable before I need a weight distribution hitch?
asked by: Jack Z
Expert Reply:
That's an excellent question, and the answer is there isn't a hard-and-fast number that means a weight distribution hitch is required. The best way to assess this is if the sag is noticeable, either visually or when towing. You really want to be as close to level as possible, but is 1/4 inch of sag going to be something you notice? Probably not. But if you can see your tow vehicle's back end drop down, or if you are towing and notice the vehicle is more difficult to handle, you need a weight distribution system.
The reason is, when your tow vehicle sags, that means the front wheels are not making even, full contact with the ground, resulting in reduced traction, more difficulty steering, and poorer braking. Getting back as level as possible when towing will make handing your tow vehicle easier, and results in a safer towing experience.
If you find yourself needing a weight distribution hitch, you will first need to know your total tongue weight (TTW), which is the tongue weight of your fully loaded and ready to go trailer plus the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle (if any) of your tow vehicle. The tongue weight is typically between 10% and 15% of your trailer's GVWR but you'll want to verify it by using a scale such as the etrailer Tongue Weight Scale # e99044.
For example, if your total tongue weight was 700 lbs a great option would be the Fastway e2 # FA92-00-0800 which is for TTW between 400 lbs and 800 lbs. If you let me know what your TTW is I would be happy to make a recommendation for you so you can get the correct system.
I have also added links below to help articles on weight distribution which I recommend checking out, and a link to our entire selection of weight distribution hitches.
![Kyle S](https://images.etrailer.com/static/images/catg/people/1237_tn.jpg)
Products Referenced in This Question
etrailer Tongue Weight Scale for Campers and Utility Trailers - 2,000-lb Capacity
- Tongue Weight Scale
- Analog Scale
- 2000 lbs
- etrailer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control - Trunnion - 8,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 600 lbs
- 700 lbs
- Fastway
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Shop: RV Camera
- Shop: Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System
- Shop: Furrion Vision S Wireless RV Backup Camera System w/ Night Vision - Rear Mount - 5" Screen
- Shop: RoadActive Suspension Custom Leaf Spring Enhancement Kit - Heavy Duty
- Shop: SumoSprings Solo Custom Helper Springs - Rear Axle
- Shop: Swagman Nomad Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
- Video: Demco Composite eZ-Latch Repair Kit Review
- Q&A: Does a Trailer have to be towed Level or Can it be Off Up or Down
- Shop: Demco Composite eZ-Latch Repair Kit for 2-5/16" Ball Cast Couplers
- Video: Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System Installation - 2019 Ford F-150
- Shop: Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System
- Video: Roadmaster Active Suspension Leaf Spring Kit Review
- Video: Timbren Vehicle Suspension - Rear Axle Suspension Enhancement - TFR1504E Review
- Search Results: demco repair kit
- Q&A: Lock For Demco EZ Latch Coupler on Airstream Basecamp 20X Travel Trailer
- Shop: Towing Mirrors
- Q&A: Replacement Latch Kit for Flat Plate Mount Demco Trailer Coupler
- Video: K-Source Custom Extendable Towing Mirror Installation - 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- Q&A: Towing Mirror Recommendation for 2016 Chevy Silverado 1500 without Turn Signals in Mirrors
- Video: Review of CURT Weight Distribution Hitch - Bluetooth Trailer Sway Control Only - C94VV
- Video: Demco Composite eZ-Latch Repair Kit Review DM6008
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Q&A: Accounting for Tow Vehicle Sag when Choosing Ball Mount
- Shop: RV Covers
- Shop: Base Plate for Tow Bar
- Q&A: Wheel Dollies For Trailer Valet XL Trailer Dolly Allowing Tighter Turning With Tandem Axle Trailer
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Stuck Hitch Ball in Trailer Coupler
- Search Results: 7 pin cover
- Search Results: electronic sway control