Weight Distribution System and Hitch Lock For 2010 Volkswagen Touareg Towing 27 Ft Travel Trailer

Question:

Im looking at buying a weight distribution system for my 27 ft TT about 5500 lbs towing with a 2010 Touareg TDi probably one I can add sway control to at a later date if needed. My concern is that it appears that the only type of anti-theft devices available for these when not connected to the tow vehicle is a simple hitch pin to keep it from being mounted to another vehicle. I have 2 questions: 1. Is there a better type of security lock available for a tongue with a WD system when the trailer is not attached to the tow vehicle? 2. Is there a particular type of system you'd recommend for my application? Thanks so much!!

asked by: Tom M

Expert Reply:

To select the proper weight distribution system for your application you will need to know the tongue weight of the trailer when it is fully loaded and ready to travel. You will also need to include the weight of any cargo that might be loaded in your vehicle behind the rear axle into the total tongue weight. Once you have figured out these weights, then you can select the proper weight distribution system for your vehicle and trailer setup.

You want to select a system that will fall inline with the weights you have for the trailer and tongue weights. If you go with a system that is rated too small, you will put undue stress on the components and not provide enough effective weight transfer for your setup. A system that is too big will cause a stiff and rough ride.

Because of their tall sides, a travel trailer is particularlly susceptible to trailer sway caused by crosswinds or the turbulence caused by passing or oncoming traffic. Because of this, I'd recommend a system that provides weight distribution with a sway control component like the Reese Steadi-Flex. If your trailer tongue weight is below 500 lbs, the # RP66558 would be recommended. If the trailer tongue weight is above 500 lbs but below 1000 lbs, go with # RP66559.

Either system includes the weight distributing shank, but the properly sized trailer ball with a 1-1/4 inch diameter shank is sold separately as # 63845 for a 2 inch ball or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch ball.

As for securing the the weight distribution hitch, there are a couple things that you can do to help prevent theft. It is recommended to remove the head (the section the ball is mounted) from the trailer coupler when not in use.

When the system is installed and ready to tow, you could use a receiver hitch pin and trailer coupler lock to secure you system against theft. I recommend the Master Lock Hitch Receiver and Coupler Lock Set # 2848DAT. The Master Lock set has a hitch pin and trailer coupler lock that are keyed-alike. Therefore, you can use same key for both locks.

I have linked a weight distribution article and an article that shows how to figure the tongue weight for your vehicle and trailer.