Recommending a Weight Distribution System for a 1994 Jeep Grand Cherokee Towing a Pop-Up Camper

Question:

I plan on pulling a 2000 Coleman Cheyenne (storage box up front) with a 1994 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo with a 5.2 V8. The pop-up is just under a ton and the Jeep is just under two tons. I imagine the pop-up will end up being more than 50% of the Jeep's weight once it's loaded up. The hitch on the Jeep even recommends a WDS if towing over a ton and the tongue weight is over 200 lbs. I already notice the back end of the Jeep pulling down. I'm curious what system to get if needed. Thanks

asked by: Will D

Helpful Expert Reply:

If your 1994 Jeep Grand Cherokee is already sagging when hooked up to an unloaded camper, a weight distribution system is a necessity. You will need a system with the appropriate tongue weight, which is 10 to 15 percent of your gross trailer weight, plus the weight of anything loaded in your Jeep behind the rear axle (I have added a link to a help article on weight distribution for you, as well as one on how to determine tongue weight).

For your setup, I recommend the Fastway e2 Weight Distribution with 2-Point Sway Control, # FA92-00-0450, which has a maximum tongue weight of 450 lbs, and a maximum gross towing weight of 4,500 lbs. I have included a link to a video review of this product for you, which will allow you to familiarize yourself with the product, including Fastway's sway control system, which will add stability to your camper when towing it.

Also keep in mind that this system will require a hitch ball with a 1-inch diameter shank, such as # 40038.

expert reply by: Kyle S