Recommended Weight Distribution System for Towing Car Hauler with Alternating Loads  

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Using the same weight distribution system with such a drastic difference in the amount of weight you're towing can be an issue. If your load is too heavy for the system then it won't be able to do its job, go too light and it will make your trailer ride rough. The Reese Steadi-Flex you mentioned, part # RP66560, is certainly too heavy when your trailer is on the light side and may not even be enough when fully loaded. Instead I recommend using a system that you can convert based on your tongue weight like the Blue Ox SwayPro # BXW0550. This is rated for 550 pounds tongue weight which is likely appropriate when your trailer is at 4,000 pounds. Then, when your trailer is loaded, you can change the spring bars to a heavier set.

There's a number of other rated spring bars to fit the SwayPro:

# BXW4015 for 350lbs TW
# BXW4006 for 750lbs TW
# BXW4007 for 1,000lbs TW
# BXW4008 for 1,500lbs TW
# BXW4014 for 2,000lbs TW

In order to make sure you're using the correct bars for the load you're carrying I highly recommend checking your tongue weight regularly using a scale like # e99044. When finding tongue weight for weight distribution you want the loaded trailer's tongue weight. Then add that to the amount of weight you add to the tow vehicle behind its rear axle. You want this figure to fall within the range of the system you're using.

You may also need a hitch ball to go with the Blue Ox system. For 2-5/16 inch ball rated for 12,000 lbs. # 19286.

expert reply by: Charles S

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