Weight Distribution System Recommendation For Trailer With 620 Lb Tongue Weight

Question:

Hi, Just got a used 2013 Rockwood Roo 21SS trailer, UVW-4850 lbs., hitch weight 620 lbs., we dont drive with water in tanks, just me and my sweetie, and we travel light. We havent picked a vehicle to pull with yet, currently will use a 2009 GMC Sierra WT with small V-8 and trailer towing package. I pulled it home from the dealer 70 miles, no problems, truck handled it easily. But it was a calm day and no big trucks. Id like weight distribution and anti-sway, looking at Reese 66074 for dual cam system. I doubt we will put 200 more pounds on the hitch, good storage in the rear of the trailer so I can balance the load if needed. Im also going to take both 30 lbs. gas tanks off the hitch, and replace with one 20 pound. We just dont need to carry all that around with us when we dont need it. Is this a good fit for me? Thanks,

asked by: Gary V

Helpful Expert Reply:

The best way to determine what system will work for you is to know what your total tongue weight is. The total tongue weight is the tongue weight of your fully-loaded-ready-to-tow trailer added to the weight of any cargo you place behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. You will then want to find a system where your total tongue weight falls near the middle of the tongue weight range for the system. Getting a system that is too small will be useless, but getting a system that is too big will result in a stiff, uncomfortable experience.

With the tongue weight of 433 lbs and as you said you will be around 200 lbs for other cargo, the Reese Strait-Line Weight Distribution # RP66074 would be a good fit since the 800 plus lbs would be near the middle of the tongue weight range for the hitch.

Since the hitch ball and adjustable shank is not included I recommend # RP3215 adjustable shank and part # 19286 for a hitch ball.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L