Is Weight Distribution Suitable for Pulling a Horse Trailer Behind an RV
Question:
I am considering a load distributing hitch for pulling a horse trailer behind an RV. Will this type of hitch minimize the bouncing up and down of the trailer tongue that is caused by the long RV overhang behind the front wheels? Thanks.
asked by: Doug B
Expert Reply:
In order to use a weight distribution system the tow vehicle's hitch has to be specifically rated for such an application. The RV's hitch safety/warning sticker will indicate if the hitch is rated for use with weight distribution/sway control.
Weight distribution (WD) is intended to correct for a sagging rear end in the tow vehicle when the trailer is hitched to it, or headlights that point up, or when steering and braking performance suffer from the front end of the tow vehicle having too little weight on it. Weight distribution hitches shift some of the trailer tongue weight forward onto the tow vehicle's front axle to correct for these symptoms. Systems that include sway control do help control trailer motion, but more the side-to-side sway than up-and-down motion. The linked article will give you good background on WD systems, the types offered and what they do.
Weight distribution systems are chosen based on measured trailer tongue weight (see the linked article) to which you must add the weight of any cargo behind the tow vehicle rear axle. You also need to choose one based on the type of brakes on the trailer - electric or surge. For example, the Blue Ox Sway Pro # BXW1500 works with both electric and surge brakes and is suitable for tongue weights in 1200- to 1400-lb range.
Please let me know if your RV hitch is rated for used with weight distribution and what your trailer tongue weight is and I will be glad to offer a recommendation suited to your requirements.
Products Referenced in This Question
Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - Clamp On - 15,000 lbs GTW, 1,500 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Severe Sway
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 1100 lbs
- 1200 lbs
- 1300 lbs
- 1400 lbs
- Blue Ox
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Strait-Line Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - No Shank - Trunnion Bar - 15K GTW, 1,500 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Shank Not Included
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2-1/2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 1100 lbs
- 1200 lbs
- 1300 lbs
- 1400 lbs
- Reese
more information >
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