Weight Distribution for a Ram 2500 and 9,795 Pound Trailer

Question:

What weight distribution/sway control system would you recommend for a Ram 2500 Laramie Diesel with a factory-installed class V hitch pulling a travel trailer with a dry tongue weight of 770 lbs and a GVWR of 9,795 lbs? After installing two batteries and filling the propane tanks I think the tongue weight will be 1,000 lbs before we add cargo to the trailer. I dont know whether I should be guided more by the trailers GVWR or more by the tongue weight when choosing a weight distribution system.

asked by: Bob

Expert Reply:

To choose a weight distribution system you will need to go by the total tongue weight of the set up. This is calculated by taking the tongue weight of the trailer, when loaded and ready to tow, and adding to that the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle.

Given that the estimated tongue weight prior to loading cargo in the trailer is 1,000 pounds it is likely to increase and going with a system rated for 800 to 1,500 pounds tongue weight, such as # RP66131 would be what I recommend.

To add sway control you can use dual-cam sway control # RP26002. The above system does not include a shank so I have included a link to the shanks that would fit (assuming the hitch on your Ram has a 2-1/2 inch opening). If the receiver opening is a 2 inch then I have linked those shanks as well.

And you will need a ball, # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch ball. I have also included some links on determining tongue weight and on weight distribution for you.

expert reply by: Michael H