Using Pro Series Weight Distribution System, Part # 49570, On a 16-Foot Livestock Trailer
Question:
How does this system work pulling a livestock trailer loaded with cows. Pulling with a 2000 SR5 Tundra 4X4 with a 4.7, auto trans.?
asked by: Rick
Helpful Expert Reply:
Weight Distribution systems like the Pro Series # 49570 work by evenly distributing the tongue weight of your trailer across both axles of the tow vehicle to eliminate rear-end squat, which impairs steering, braking and traction performance. WD systems that also include Sway Control will provide additional stability in windy conditions and on curvy roads. Note that this particular system cannot be used on trailers with surge brakes and the sway control arm must be removed when reversing or when traveling on icy or slick pavement.
I checked the towing capacity of your 2000 Tundra 4X4 with 4.7 liter engine; its rated maximum is 7200 lbs.
Your trailer and its livestock cargo should not exceed this GTW rating of your vehicle, or the rating of your trailer hitch, whichever is lower.
The first step in selecting a WD system is to determine the trailer gross weight and tongue weight in its fully-loaded condition (as it will be when it is being towed). It is important to select a WD system whose effective range encompasses your loaded trailer tongue weight. Ideally, you want your fully loaded tongue weight to be as close as possible to the middle of the systems effective range. Typically tongue weight will be 10-15% of the gross trailer weight (GTW). The weight of anything in your truck bed that is behind the rear axle will add to the tongue weight. I have attached an illustration and article that show how to determine your loaded trailer tongue weight. Once you know this you can select a WD system with sway control that is suited to your specific application. If you like, you can let me know your loaded trailer TW and I can make a recommendation for a WD system.
I have also included a link to an article that will help explain the different types of WD and sway control systems. I also included a link to a video for this particular WD system to demonstrate the installation process.
