Recommended Weight Distribution System For Horse Trailer And 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Question:

I have an old horse trailer that weighs 2120 lbs. Without the horse in it, because he wont get in yet, I believe the tongue weight is 320 lbs. The horse weighs approximately 1000 lbs. I drive a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee. One of the biggest problems I seem to have with picking a weight distribution hitch is the fact that the tongue of this trailer is enclosed on top. I have used the filters to pick out the Equalizer 4000/400, the Fastway e2 4500/450, and the Reese Steadi-Flex 4000/400 to compare. Obviously with the enclosed tongue, I cant use the attachments as they are, but they look like they could be bolted to the frame of the trailer. Could you tell me your thoughts on these choices and whether or not they could be bolted to the trailer frame and still work as they should? Please respond as soon as you can, as I am very late on getting this project taken care of. Thank you

asked by: Kate S

Expert Reply:

For your horse trailer with 320 lb dry tongue weight, and your 1000 lb horse to be added, I recommend the Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control # RP66558. This system is better rated for the total tongue weight that will be on your hitch. This system also has better sway control due to the automotive grade friction material it uses.

If you really want to only use an outside bolt on versus brackets, that will limit you to a chain style weight distribution system, but you can use the Chain Hangers for Reese Weight Distribution Systems - Bolt On # RP58305 with the Reese system # RP66540.

When choosing a weight distribution system, you want the total tongue weight which is the loaded tongue weight of your trailer along with any cargo behind the rear axle of your Jeep. You ideally want that combined weight to be in the middle of the tongue weight rating of your weight distributions system. In this case, the tongue weight rating of the Reese system is 400-600 lbs, so you are likely to fall in the middle of that when loaded.

If you go with the system that has anti-sway brackets, I don't recommend drilling into your frame as that can weaken it. What I recommend is cutting out a small hole where each of the brackets install only large enough for that small plate in your enclosed top. That top piece is for decoration more than strength that far back on the frame, so that will be the safest option and won't greatly disturb the look of your trailer.

You will need a hitch ball for either system and I recommend # A-90 for a 2 inch and # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch hitch ball. To secure your trailer, I recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver & Coupler Lockset - 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver # e99039.