Weight Distribution for a 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan & 2000 Bantum Trail Lite Trailer

Question:

I will be adding a weight distribution hitch while pulling my 2000 Bantum Trail Lite camper with my 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan. Ive measured the tough weight at 480 lbs with very little loaded in the trailer. Typically we add a couple hundred lbs of cargo while packing for a camping trip but tend to load much of it toward the rear of the trailer. Can you say if part # C17051 would be a good choice?

asked by: Jeff L

Expert Reply:

If you are adding the weight towards the back of the trailer then the tongue weight probably won't go too much above the 480 pounds that it is now. When determining tongue weight you also have to factor in the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of your 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan. If all of that keeps the tongue weight below the capacity of Curt weight distribution system # C17051 then it will work well. You would just need to add a ball; # 40038 for a 2 inch or # C40030 for a 2-5/16 inch.

Keep in mind that the hitch and the vehicle have their own tongue weight capacities. The hitches for the 2013 Grand Caravan have a maximum tongue weight capacity of 500 pounds when using weight distribution. The vehicle on the other hand shows a maximum tongue weight of 360 pounds.

Since the vehicle has the lower rating you have to go by it. So even at 480 pounds you have exceeded the tongue weight capacity of the vehicle. Check page 547 in the owner's manual for more information. The last 2 columns are the max gross trailer weight and tongue weight based on 3 different scenarios.

Weight distribution does not increase the tongue weight capacity of the vehicle. The only solution is to reduce the tongue weight below the vehicle's capacity.

expert reply by: Michael H