Is Weight Distribution Needed to Tow 2006 StarCraft Camper Trailer with 2013 Tacoma or 2011 Traverse

Question:

I have two tow vehicles to pick from, a 2013 toyota tacoma 4x4 v6 and a 2011 Chevy traverse with factory tow package. We have a 2006 starcraft 13rt, 2,600 pounds, with a front loading deck that we just fill with misc. camping gear for now. My question is, will this sway bar be enough to keep us safe on the road or do i really need to by a WDH system? Thanks!

asked by: Travis V

Expert Reply:

Even though your trailer is relatively light, you may still want to use a weight distribution system while towing the trailer with either of your tow vehicles. Some common reasons weight distribution systems are needed are:

Your trailer weight (GTW) is more than 50 percent of your vehicle's weight (GVWR)
The rear of your tow vehicle sags when the trailer is hooked up
You experience trailer sway
Your tow vehicle's headlights point upward
You find it difficult to steer or stop your rig
You want to tow to the highest capacity allowed by your vehicle's trailer hitch

If you check the label on the driver's side door jamb of each vehicle, you should find the vehicle's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating listed. If your loaded and ready to tow StarCraft is more than 50 percent of the vehicle's GVWR, a weight distribution system will serve you well to distribute the trailer's tongue weight over the vehicle instead of all the tongue weight being carried by the rear axle.

If either vehicle's rear end sags, causing the headlights to point upward, then it is likely that the weight of the trailer is causing the front tires to have decreased traction, turning, and stopping power.

If you find that the trailer is less than 50 percent of either vehicle's GVWR, but that the trailer causes rear end sag with either vehicle when hitched, I highly recommend using a weight distribution system.

If the rear end sag is minimal, but you want something to help with trailer sway, a friction sway control bar, like the Reese Kit # 83660 that you referenced, is a great place to start. By using a Sway-Control Bracket # RP26003, the friction sway control bar can be mounted on any ball mount.

If you find that the sway control bar alone is not providing you the sway control, traction, or ride quality you need then you can always a weight distribution system to your set-up, like the Reese Weight Distribution System with Shank # RP66540. This weight distribution system will work well with the # 83660 friction sway bar.

I have linked a help article on frequently asked questions about weight distribution systems for you.