Differences Between Pro Series # PS49901 and # PS49583 Weight Distribution Systems

Question:

Can you explain why should I buy pro series 49901 vs PS49583? If everything is the same and 49903 has larger max tongue weight, why people still buy 49901 ? I need to buy with the lowest product weight as possible to save weight. But if the two has the same weight, why would anyone buy 49901?

asked by: John D

Expert Reply:

When you're choosing a weight distribution system, you'll want to choose the system whose effective tongue weight range most closely matches the fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of your trailer. The weight of any cargo carried behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle should also be considered tongue weight. Ideally, you want the fully loaded tongue weight of the trailer to be as closes as possible to the middle of the effective tongue weight range of the system you choose. If you click the provided link, you can see how to determine the tongue weight of your trailer.

So, the Pro Series # PS49901 would be used on trailers whose fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight doesn't exceed 550 lbs, and the # PS49583 is designed for trailers with ready to tow tongue weights ranging from 750-1000 lbs. If your trailer tongue weight is somewhere in the middle, use # PS49582 which is effective on trailer tongue weights ranging from 550-750 lbs.

Using a system that's rated too low for your trailer tongue weight can result in ineffective performance indicated by the rear end sag of the vehicle. The spring bars can also become damaged. Using a system that's rated too highly will result in a very rough ride because the tongue weight of the trailer isn't enough to get any flex out of the spring bars.

The actual product weight of the lowest rated # PS49901 and the higher rated # PS49583 will be very similar, as the difference between the two systems will be the way the spring bars are shaped and constructed as well as the integrated # 83660.

Both systems include the weight distributing shank and a 2-5/16 inch diameter ball. If you need a 2 inch ball, it's sold separately as part # A-90. I've linked you to an install video showing how the system is set up.

expert reply by: Mike L