Should I Use Weight Distribution or Suspension Enhancement for 2017 Chevy Colorado with Slight Squat

Question:

I have a 2017 Chevy Colorado 1/2 ton diesel 4wd and am pulling a 24foot travel trailer that is within the rated specs for the truck both gross weight and tongue weight. However, when hitched up, the truck squats down just slightly beyond a level stance. Do you recommend a weight distribution hitch or air bags. Ive been pulling this with a 3/4 Dodge diesel with neither and have had no problems.

asked by: John N

Expert Reply:

Weight Distribution (WD) is definitely the better way to go. Air bags do a good job of helping to level the truck, but a WD system will distribute that weight evenly among the axles. This will give you more control and a better towing experience overall.

To determine which WD system is appropriate for your towing situation you will first need to find what the Total Tongue Weight (TTW) of your setup is. The TTW can be found by adding the Tongue Weight (TW) of your fully loaded and ready-to-go trailer plus the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your 2017 Chevrolet Colorado. You will then want to pick a WD system that has a range that your TTW falls in the middle of.

One of the best WD systems that we currently have to offer are the Reese Strait-Line systems. The great thing about the Strait-Line is that it is built to prevent sway before it happens rather than correct it after it starts. The Strait-Line part # RP66084 has a TW range of 600 - 1,200 lbs which works for a lot of trailers but you will want to make sure that this range is best for your TTW. This part comes with a shank but you will need to purchase a hitch ball separately. You can use part # A-90 for a 2 inch hitch ball or part # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch hitch ball.

expert reply by: Jon G