How to Select Correct Weight Distribution & Sway Control System for 2012 Kia Sorento  

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Usually a trailer whose loaded contents are well-balanced will have a tongue weight (TW) that is in the range of 12- to 15-percent of its gross vehicle weight. So for example, on a 3000-lb trailer that is loaded correctly the measured TW should be in the range of 360- to 450-lbs. Trailers that are loaded incorrectly - with either too little or too much TW - will tend to have handling issues like sway, or they could cause sag in the rear of the tow vehicle.

Weight distribution/sway control (WD/SC) systems can really help a lot with both of these conditions but it is still important to load the trailer so the TW is in the range noted above. Once you know the trailer is loaded correctly you can measure the TW to find the correct WD/SC set-up.

We offer a handy scale # e99044 for measuring but other methods are noted in the linked article. You also need to include the weight of any cargo in the Sorento that sits behind the rear axle - say a loaded cooler or generator - since that weight will act just like trailer TW. The ideal situation is that this total TW will fall right near the middle of the operating range for the system you choose.

The linked page will display all WD/SC systems that fit your 2-inch hitch and that include the shank. All will work with your electric brakes. Click on your TW to see suitable systems. For a TW of 400-lbs you can use Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System # EQ37060ET which works over a TW range of 200- to 600-lbs. If you ever change to a heavier camper you can simply swap out the spring bars for higher-rated ones and still use most of the original system. This set-up comes complete with a hitch ball; all you might add is a thin-walled socket like # EQ70-00-4800.

expert reply by: Adam R

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