Recommendation on a Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control With a 640 lbs Tongue Weight.  

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The total gross tongue weight is the major factor that one needs to determine when purchasing a weight distribution system. The total gross tongue weight is the trailer tongue weight plus any weight loaded in the tow vehicle behind the rear axle.Typically, a trailer's tongue weight is 10 to 15 percent of the the gross trailer weight. If you have a trailer with a 6,000 lbs gross trailer weight, then the tongue weight rating should be 600 - 900 lbs. Based on the capacity you provided for your truck, you will want to keep the tongue weight below 640 lbs. The correct total tongue weight rating is needed to make sure you will install the proper weight distribution system for you application.

If your total tongue weight falls in between the 400 to 800 range, then the Reese Strait-Line Weight Distribution System # RP66083 will wrok for your application. However, if your tongue weight is higher, you will have to go with a higher tongue weight range on your weight distribution system.

I recommend the Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System # RP66559. The system has a tongue weight range for 500 - 1000 lbs. The Steadi-Flex wil give you enough room to allow for adding cargo in the rear of the vehicle.

Also if clearance is an issue, the Reese Steadi-Flex system uses straight friction bars that are mounted closer to the trailer's A-frame. The Strait-Line's design uses a chain and cam system the hangs lower and may cause ground clearance issue in some applications.

I recommend also # A-90, a 2 in ball with 1-1/4 inch shank. Reese does not supply a ball for these weight distribution hitches.

I have attched videos on on both Reese systems and help articles on weight distribution and how to measure total tongue weight for you.

expert reply by: Jared P

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