Compatibility of a Weight Distribution on an Aluminum Framed Trailer  

Question:

Expert Reply:

You would want to contact the manufacturer of your trailer to see if they recommend using a weight distribution system on it. Many manufacturers don't recommend using weight distribution on aluminum framed trailers because the aluminum cannot bear the forces caused by the weight distribution itself like steel frames can.

After confirming with the manufacture that you may use a weight distribution you would want to find a system that works for your needs based on the Fully Loaded TW (tongue weight) of your trailer.

This equation will help you: Tongue Weight (for weight distribution) = trailer tongue weight + vehicle cargo load behind rear axle.

It's important to note that this is anything behind the rear axle plus the fully loaded weight of the trailer. Once you identify your GTW (Gross trailer weight), your TW is typically about 10-15 percent of your GTW. I've linked a Help Article for you convenience in determining Loaded Tongue Weight.

When choosing a weight distribution system you will want your TW to fall within the middle of the tongue weight capacity range. I've attached the Weight Distribution Page, use the facets to navigate to a system that will suit your TW needs. If you could provide more information about what the weight of your trailer is and the vehicle your using to tow I could better recommend a system tailored specifically to your needs.

For example the Reese Strait-Line Weight Distribution # RP66084 is a weight distribution system that has a tongue weight range of 600-1200 lbs. If your TW was 800-900 lbs., this system would work great for you. It has features like trunnion style bars for better ground clearance and it prevents sway control before it starts using a dual cam system.

The Pro Series Weight Distribution # PS49583 that you were looking at is a standard system with a round bar design with no sway control and has a maximum tongue weight of 1,000 lbs. If your tongue weight was under 1,000 lbs. and didn't need sway control this could be a viable option for you.

Please note that neither weight distribution hitch mentioned above comes with a coupler ball included, but the popular sizes needed are the 2 inch # A-90 and 2-5/16 inches # 19286 balls are available right here on our site.

expert reply by: Jackie C

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