Weight Distribution for a 9,700 Pound Travel Trailer and 2005 Chevy Silverado 1500

Question:

I have a 2005 1/2 ton Silverado. The factory hitch with wdh is rated for 1500 tongue and 12000 total weight. My 33 ft travel trailer has a dry tongue weight of 1018 and dry weight of 7134 with gvwr of 9680. Would the curt 17063 be the right hitch for my application. Im sure there are several options but I would like to stay around this price point.

asked by: JOHN C

Expert Reply:

If the dry tongue weight of the trailer is 1,018 pounds then it would be around 1,350 pounds if the trailer is loaded to its max weight capacity of 9,680 pounds. This is a tongue weight of 14 percent of the gross trailer weight.

To choose a weight distribution system you will need to go by the total tongue weight of the set up. This is calculated by taking the tongue weight of the trailer, when loaded and ready to tow, and adding to that the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle.

So if your total tongue weight stays between 1,018 and 1,350 pounds then Curt weight distribution system # C17063 will work since it is rated for 1,000 to 1,400 pounds tongue weight. But at this much weight the single friction bar sway control will not be adequate and adding a second one, # 17200, is recommended.

I have included some links on weight distribution and determining tongue weight for you.

expert reply by: Michael H