How to Select Correctly-Rated Weight Distribution System for 2015 Dodge Durango

Question:

2015 Dodge Durango Limited AWD with 3.6L engine and factory tow package, rated tow capacity of 6200 lb. Looking for weight distribution hitch with sway control for a soon-to-be-purchased travel trailer weighing under 5000 lb with a TW of 410 unloaded. A friend recommended the Curt TruTrak 17500. Since that package goes to 1000 lb TW, would that be too much? I have heard that having a WDH with too much capacity can cause damage due to stiffness and poor control. Your expertise is appreciated!

asked by: Craig W

Expert Reply:

The real key to choosing the right weight distribution/sway control (WD/SC) system is knowing the trailer's actual tongue weight (TW) when it is fully loaded and ready for the road, with all gear and supplies in place. You can measure this TW accurately with scale # e99044. To the trailer TW you need to add the weight of anything in the Durango that sits behind the rear axle, say a loaded cooler or generator, since this cargo weight will act just like trailer TW. The ideal is that your total TW falls in the middle of the system's operating range.

The Curt TruTrack Weight Distribution System # C17500 works over a TW range of 800- to 1000-lbs. Since your trailer's dry hitch weight is 410-lbs you are probably looking at a loaded TW of more like 600 to 650-lbs. This system would indeed be too stiff for that TW. Jumpy handling can arise when the WD system is too stiff (rated too high) for the trailer load.

Appropriate WD system options for a 600-650-lb TW are shown on the linked page. Fastway e2 system # FA94-00-0800 would be ideal for this TW range. All you need to add is a hitch ball like # EQ91-00-6100.

expert reply by: Adam R