Weight Distribution System Recommendation for a Horse Trailer with 550 lbs Tongue Weight

Question:

I am looking to purchase a weight distribution hitch. Will be using a 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee with 6000 lb capacity to tow a 2 horse bumper pull trailer. Total expected weight of trailer about 4800 lbs. Manufacturer advises tongue weight is 450 pounds empty 550 pounds with 2 horses and tack loaded. Is a 600 pound hitch adequate, or would you advise stepping up to 800 pound? Will need a hitch with some in it - currently using a standard Reese drawbar with a 5 1/4 inch which seems about right. Recommendations on an appropriate hitch?

asked by: William N

Expert Reply:

The best way to pick out a weight distribution system is to base it off of the loaded tongue weight of the setup when it is loaded and ready to tow. This figure also includes the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. I attached a help article on determining tongue weight for you to check out as well. You will want the loaded tongue weight of your setup to fall right in the middle of the tongue weight range of the system you use.

Since your tongue weight will be right at 550 lbs I would recommend the Straitline System part # RP66083. This system has a tongue weight range of 400-800 lbs which would be perfect for you and also features the only sway control on the market that works to prevent sway before it starts.

For a 2 inch ball you would want part # A-90 and for a 2-5/16 inch ball # 19286.

expert reply by: Jameson C