How to Select Ideal Weight Distribution/Sway Control System for 2016 Chevrolet Colorado  

Question:

Expert Reply:

There are indeed many brands and several different types of weight distribution/sway control (WD/SC) systems and we can help you sort it all out.

First, let's talk about trailer tongue weight (TW). The key to choosing a correctly-rated WD/SC system is knowing the fully-loaded trailer's actual TW. Dry hitch weight from the trailer's specs is not enough to choose a system, so you really want to load the trailer with all your supplies and then measure the TW with a scale like # e99044. To this measured TW you want to add the weight of any cargo that sits behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle since this will act just like trailer TW. Examples of such cargo items are a big loaded-up cooler or a generator. You want your total TW to fall in the middle of the operating range for the system you choose.

Another consideration is how much access to the trailer frame you have. Some trailers can have structures that overhang the front of their a-frame and this can limit your ability to access the frame to mount the spring bar lift brackets. Some WD systems like those from Equal-I-zer can have smaller frame brackets that are easier to position on the frame. If you have full access to the sides of the a-frame then this is not a concern.

WD systems come with or without integrated sway control; some of the better systems like Equal-I-zer # EQ37100ET actually prevent sway, instead of just reacting to it, and these are preferred over friction sway control. Also note, you cannot back up a trailer with a friction bar connected; you need to disconnect it each time you back up the trailer.

There are also both round bar systems and trunnion bar systems; trunnion bars provide better ground clearance since they connect to the head assembly from the side rather than the bottom. These are the better option for many users. Again the Equal-I-zer system is a trunnion type.

As mentioned, your total TW should fall in the middle of the system's operating range. System # EQ37100ET works over a TW range of 600- to 1000-lbs so if you have an actual total TW of 800-lbs this would be an ideal choice. This system uses integrated sway prevention, features smaller frame brackets that are easy to position and it comes complete with a hitch ball.

Please refer to the two linked videos on this item for further illustration of its component parts and installation. A helpful article on WD system is linked for you too.

expert reply by: Adam R

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