Is Weight Distribution Needed for a 2011 Chevy Silverado 2500 and Airstream Classic 7,230 Pounds

Question

Question:

When my travel trailer is hitched to my truck the front and rear of my truck is within 1/4 inch of each other and the trailer is level. I have absolutely no sway and no issues towing. How is a WD hitch going to help if I dont have an issue now? TV: 2011 3/4 ton Chevy Silverado HD 6.6 Duramax, Allison Trans, 373 gears and complete tow package including exhaust brakes. Hitch rated for 13,000 load and tongue weight of 1500 lbs TT: Airstream Classic 7230 lb with 730 lb tongue weight.

asked by: Jim R

0

Expert Reply:

Weight distribution is recommended any time the gross trailer weight is at least 50 percent of the gross vehicle weight. Given that your Airstream weighs 7,230 pounds weight distribution is recommended.

When just sitting, it may not appear that weight distribution is needed but consider that when you travel there is up and down, back and forth, and side to side movement. If the tongue weight suddenly gets heavier because of it then it can negatively impact the steering and braking of the truck. That's not to say that you will have problems constantly but it only takes once!

The same goes for sway. Chances are at some point you will experience a sway event. Basically, considering the weights of trailers and what could go wrong, it is better to be prepared for any eventuality.

You can add weight distribution and sway control without breaking the bank. 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.

Reese system # 49570 is rated up to 1,200 pounds and that would cover the tongue weight of the trailer. Tongue weight is usually 10 to 15 percent of the gross trailer weight.

To add sway control you would need 2 of # 83660. A single one would not be effective because of the weight of the trailer. And you would need a ball, # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch. I have included some links on weight distribution for you.