Choosing the Correct Weight Distribution System for Tandem Axle 7K Car Hauler

Question:

Hi All, : Ill try not to talk and just give the info. - 2014 Silverado 1500 rated at 800 lbs dead hitch and 1200 lbs weight dist hitch. Total trailer weight 3.42 gear set is 9600 lbs bumper pull. 5.3 motor all numbers from manual - carhauler tandem trailer is 7000 max. I use max figures here :. Tongue should be 700-1050. I am planning on keeping it around the 11 mark = 770 lbs tongue. Keeps me in the not needed for the weight dist hitch, but this is close. I have a sherline tongue scale so I can keep proper tongue weight for ANY car hauled on trailer and checking is not a pain. So I have been looking at WD hitches because so close to 800lbs. Now the questions. - What do the weight ratings mean on them? bar sizei see ratings from 500 to 1200 lbs - If rated at 500 lbs, does this mean that it subtracts 500 lbs from tongue weight? 1000 lbs - 500 lbs = 500 lbs? - OR, is the weight rating suppose to be the CURRENT tongue weight of your trailer? As in, my current tongue weight is 1000, so I need a 1000 lbs rated WD hitch. - what do you think of the setup as of now and my path? is 770 lbs too close to max dead hitch no WD? with scale I can check everytime with no hassle Thanks for the help in clearing this up for me!!! :

asked by: Steve P

Expert Reply:

A weight distribution system will have a range of effective tongue weights. Ideally, you want the fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight (plus the weight of anything carried behind the rear axle) to be as close to the middle of the system's effective range. Given your question, I think you'll find choosing the correct system is easier than you might think.

For instance, the Reese Strait-Line weight distribution hitch you referred to, part # RP66084 has an effective range of between 600 and 1200 lbs. If you can keep your load adjusted so that the tongue weight is right around the 800 lb mark, the # RP66084 would be absolutely ideal. You'll still have some wiggle room on the low and the high side as well. If you had to go as high as 1000 or 1050 lbs of tongue weight, you'd still have enough cushion under the system's capacity.

I'd recommend loading your hauler up as you usually would, use your scale to confirm your tongue weight. The Strait-Line is an excellent weight distribution system that can stop trailer sway before it begins.

The # RP66084 includes a shank that'll provide a rise up to 6-1/2 or a drop up to 1-1/4 inches. If you need a different rise or drop, go with the # RP66074 and purchase the shank separately. I'll link you to our selection of weight distributing shanks. The 2-5/16 inch ball is sold separately as # 19286.