Recommended Weight Distribution System And Suspension Enhancement For 2012 Ram 1500

Question:

I have a 2012 Ram 1500. looking for a wdh with sway control. My camper weighs 4500 pounds with 680 pounds tongue weight. Front axle of pickup has 3280 pounds with camper hooked up and 3360 without. Not sure if I need just sway control or a wdh with sway control. but the front end does get squirrely.

asked by: Alex B

Expert Reply:

For your 2012 Ram 1500, a weight distribution system with sway control will help a great deal. To determine the best system for you, we need to look at the total tongue weight which is the loaded tongue weight of your trailer plus any cargo behind the rear axle of your truck. This total tongue weight will help us find a system that has the actual total tongue weight in the middle of its range for best results.

For your application I recommend the Reese Strait-Line Weight Distribution System w Sway Control - Trunnion Bar - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW # RP66084. This system uses hot rolled spring bars that connect to cams and also hangers. This is the very best system for sway control because it actively keeps the trailer from swaying by holding in in line until there is a turn and the cams are overcome. This system has micro adjustments for your driving preferences to make sure you have the best control. It has a total tongue weight range of 600 to 1200 lbs, so this will be a great system for you.

It will require a hitch ball like # A-90 for a 2 inch diameter or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch ball. I also recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver & Coupler Lockset - 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver # e99039 to secure your investment.

This will greatly assist with your front end leveling, but you may also want to consider using suspension enhancement like the Custom Helper Springs Kit - Rear Axle # SSR-307-47 to assist the load leveling and keep the front end of your truck weighted properly for steering and control.