Recommended Weight Distribution/Trailer Sway Control for 6500 lb 19 Foot Hybrid Camper

Question:

Looking for a weight distribution system w/ sway control and wanted some recommendations I have a 2008 Jeep Commander 4.7L V8 with a Max Gross Trailer Wt of 6500 lbs. and plan on towing a 19 ft Hybrid trailer with Gross Vehicle weight of 4400 lbs unloaded weight of 3525 lbs. It also has a hitch weight of 440 lbs. Thanks in advance

asked by: Paul W

Expert Reply:

The first thing you'll want to do is identify the fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of your camper, and to that number, add the weight of any cargo carried behind the rear axle in the cargo area of your Commandeer. I've linked to an FAQ article that explains how to find the trailer's tongue weight.. These combined figures represent the Total Tongue Weight (TTW) of your set-up. The TTW of your trailer should fall as close as possible to the middle of the effective range of the weight distribution system you choose.

When it comes to weight distribution and sway control performance, you can't ever go wrong with the Reese-Strait Line system like the part # RP66083. This system would be ideal for trailers with tongue weights ranging from 400-800 lbs. If your tongue weight is above 700 lbs, going to the next highest rated system, part # RP66084 which is effective on 600-1200lb tongue weights would work better. Both systems include the weight distributing shank, but the properly rated trailer ball is sold separately. For a 2 inch ball, use # A-90 or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 ball.

expert reply by: Mike L