How to Determine Tongue Weight to Choose the Correct Weight Distribution System
Question:
I am looking at weight distribution hitches. Picking the proper one is based on tongue weight. Do you have any suggestions on how to determine tongue weight?
asked by: Dale
Expert Reply:
There are a few ways to determine your trailer's tongue weight. I've attached a help article that goes through them. The best and most accurate way is to use a tongue weight scale, part # e99044. Another is to load your trailer as if you were going to tow it and weigh the entire trailer. Then estimate the tongue weight between 10 and 15 percent. You want to make sure you choose a system that is rated corrected because if it's too low it won't do its job, too high and it will make your ride very stiff.
In addition to your trailer's tongue weight, you will want to also factor in the amount of weight you have stored behind the rear axle of your tow vehicle. This will give you your total tongue weight and is the actual number you'll want to use when choosing a system.
After you find your total tongue weight, you'll need to choose a system. I like the Reese systems, like the Steadi-Flex # RP66558 rated for 600 pounds. There are other tongue weight options available. I favor the Steadi-Flex because I like the use of friction pads for sway control. It's very similar to automotive brake pads and does a great job. Check out the video of the truck with the Steadi-Flex.
Products Referenced in This Question
etrailer Tongue Weight Scale for Campers and Utility Trailers - 2,000-lb Capacity
- Tongue Weight Scale
- Analog Scale
- 2000 lbs
- etrailer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 6K GTW, 600 TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 500 lbs
- Reese
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Weight Distribution Hitch for 5,500 lb Trailer
- Article: Determining Trailer Tongue Weight
- Q&A: Which Weight Distribution Hitch For 5,000 lb Trailer
- Shop: Curt TruTrack Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 8,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs TW
- Shop: Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control - Round - 8,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs TW
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Article: 2 Steps for Finding the Right Weight Distribution Hitch Size
- Q&A: Recommended Weight Distribution System for Forest River R-Pod with 450 Lb Tongue Weight
- Q&A: Recommended Weight Distribution System for Fleetwood Niagara Pop-Up With 4,000 lb GVWR
- Q&A: Recommended Weight Distribution Hitch for a 4,000 Pound Trailer and a 2003 Honda Pilot
- Search Results: weight distribution
- Shop: Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 10,000 lbs GTW, 1,000 lbs TW
- Q&A: How to Determine Correct Fastway e2 Weight Distribution System
- Shop: Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control - Round - 10,000 lbs GTW - Without Shank
- Shop: 2-5/16" Hitch Ball for Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Systems - 10,000 lbs
- Shop: etrailer Tongue Weight Scale for Campers and Utility Trailers - 2,000-lb Capacity
- Shop: Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control - Trunnion - 8,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs TW
- Search Results: fastway weight distribution hitch
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Q&A: Best Way to Prevent Sagging Suspension When Towing a Trailer
- Search Results: weight distribution hitch
- Article: 5 Things to Know About Weight Distribution Hitches
- Video: Choosing the Right Brake Controller
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Search Results: 25580
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Video: Choosing the Right Trailer Wiring
- Search Results: trailer brake controller
on Weight Distribution Hitch
