Can Weight Distribution Be Used to Stop Sag on 2015 Toyota RAV4 while Towing 1200 lb Trailer

Question:

I own a 2015 Rav 4 2.5l 4cylinder i tow a 1200 pound tent camper with it when i hook it up to the vehical it drops the rear end to much for my liking. could i put a weight disturbution hitch on there and would that take care of the problem im having. thanks

asked by: Jason A

Expert Reply:

It is likely that your RAV4 and/or its hitch is not rated for weight distribution. So what I recommend is to add Firestone Coil-Rite air helper springs # F4174 to help keep the rear of the vehicle level. I have linked a video showing an example installation for you.

If your 2015 Toyota RAV4 has a Class III trailer hitch with a 2 inch receiver opening AND the hitch and vehicle are rated for weight distribution then you can use a weight distribution system. Consult the vehicle owners manual to determine if the vehicle is rated for use with weight distribution. The hitch should have a sticker on it that, if rated for weight distribution, will provide separate capacities for weight distribution.

Or if you have Curt hitch # C13149 or etrailer hitch # e98864 they are both rated for weight distribution.

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.

A trailer weighing 1,200 pounds should have a tongue weight of 120 pounds to 180 pounds. A system such as # BXW0356, rated for up to 350 pounds tongue weight, would work.