Choosing a Weight Distribution Hitch for 24-Foot Trailer with Varying Tongue Weight
Question:
Hello, Im in the market for a WD hitch setup without sway control, and Id like to look into the round-bar style such as the PS49582 or similar. I tow a 24foot enclosed trailer which has a dry weight of 3820 and an empty tongue weight of 420lbs 11. The trailer can hold 6200lbs of cargo but I expect my cargo to typically weigh around 4000-4300 lbs for a GTW of ~8k. I was hoping to get some feedback in determining what size springbars that I should get. Since my TW can vary from 400lbs to +800lbs and anywhere in between, Im not sure where that puts me. Is it wise to purchase a 1000lb set-up and when Im towing lighter loads either dont use the bars or perhaps dont tension the chains as much? Looking forward to hearing your expert feedback.
asked by: Jay
Expert Reply:
The key to selecting a weight distribution system is to choose one based on your measured tongue weight. It is important that the system be "tuned" to your trailer tongue weight to ensure that you choose one whose spring bars are stiff enough to provide the desired redistribution of tongue weight onto the tow vehicle's front axle, but not so stiff that the result is jumpy or erratic handling from the trailer.
Ideally you want to choose a system rated such that your actual loaded trailer tongue weight falls in the middle of the system's operating range. For example, the Pro Series RB3 Weight Distribution System you referenced, part # PS49582, works for tongue weights ranging from about 400-lbs up to a maximum of 750-lbs.
Some systems can be fitted with differently-rated spring bars for occasions when your load is heavier or lighter. The bars included with the # PS49582 will work for tongue weights on the low end of your range (again, up to 750-lbs TW maximum) but you can swap out the spring bars to heavier ones when your tongue weight exceeds 750-lbs. You can use Replacement Round Bars # PS58441 for times when your TW approaches 1000-lbs. You can also use a Replacement Chain Kit # 55630 to avoid having to move than hardware between the two sets of spring bars.
Changing out the bars is a better option than trying to alter their tension via the chain hangers.
The two linked articles may be helpful to you.
Products Referenced in This Question
Reese Replacement Chain Kit for Uplift Bracket for Weight Distribution
- Accessories and Parts
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- Chains
- Reese
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