How to Select Weight Distribution/Sway Control System for 2007 Coachman Spirit Travel Trailer

Question:

We purchased a 2007 - 24foot coachman spirit of America and will be towing with a 2010 Dodge ram 5.7 hemi. Confused as to how to purchase the correct system. Tongue weight should be between 600 and 900 lbs. Can you assist me in finding the right one Thanks

asked by: Rick

Helpful Expert Reply:

The key to selecting a weight distribution/sway control (WD/SC) system for a travel trailer is knowing the fully-loaded trailer's actual tongue weight (TW). We offer scale # e99044 for measuring. To this trailer TW you will add the weight of anything in the tow vehicle that sits behind the rear axle, such as a loaded cooler or generator, since this cargo weight will act just like trailer TW. With this total TW known you can choose a system that can deliver the desired weight shift up to the truck's front axle but that won't cause any weird handling side-effects from the trailer.

Ideally your total TW will fall right in the middle of the system's operating range. It is also good to try to be consistent in how you load your supplies for each trip to ensure your actual TW remains in the desired 12-14% range.

The linked page displays all WD/SC systems with included shanks for 2-inch hitches. Click on your total TW figure to see suitable systems.

As an example, for a TW of 700-lbs a great option is the Equal-i-zer 4-Point # EQ37100ET which features smaller lift brackets that can be easier to position on the trailer frame and it is an all-inclusive kit. All you might want to add is a thin-walled socket like # EQ70-00-4800 for hitch ball installation. This system actually prevents trailer sway from starting in the first place, instead of trying to stop it once it has begun. Check out our custom ratings for this system.

expert reply by: Adam R