Inexpensive Weight Distribution System for a Trailer with Varying Weights and a 2003 Chevy Tahoe

Question:

I am considering the c17057 wd hitch. The utility trailer will be loaded with varying degrees of weight. Tahoe hitch without wd maxes at 5,000 lb tow capacity and 600 # tw. With wd something like 12,000 and 1400 tw. With WD the hitch is more than sufficient for this trailer and tow vehicle. My question is more of how do I work the wd when the trailer has very little to no gross weight or tw? I am thinking that I should tow without the wd, except for when #5,000 # load including trailer is to be towed, then put the lift arms on for heavier load. Your expert guidance? I prefer to keep cost down as well as number of pieces of equipment.

asked by: Rodney B

Expert Reply:

For your situation I recommend going with a weight distribution system that has a wide tongue weight capacity range. Reese system # 49570 has a tongue weight capacity range of 600 to 1,200 pounds. To adjust it for lighter or heavier loads you can change the number of chain links the spring bars hang from (the fewer the links the more tension on the bars) and the angle of the head. Or you could just take the bars off completely if the trailer tongue weight is below 600 pounds.

This is an expensive system and the only other part needed is a properly sized ball, # 19286, for a 2-5/16 inch diameter ball.

expert reply by: Michael H