Recommended Weight Distribution for 3,200 Pound Jayco Featherlite Trailer
Question:
I have a 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, tow rating at 5500, pulling a Jayco Featherlite GVR 3200. I dont think I need weight distribution, but would like sway control. The Jeep does not squat when trailer is hooked up, and everything looks level. Do I need both weight distribution and sway control? Or can I get by with sway control only?
asked by: Gaye Y
Expert Reply:
It is not required that you install a weight distribution system for your Jayco Featherlite Trailer, but one will certainly be beneficial for any trailer that weighs more than 50 percent of the tow vehicle. This is the case with the 3,200 GVR on your trailer and the weight of your Jeep Grand Cherokee, which based on my research is between 4,470 to 4,850 pounds.
A properly rated weight distribution system will not only help with tow vehicle sag, but it will also improve steering, stopping and trailer sway.
When choosing a weight distribution system, the most important factor to consider is the total tongue weight of your setup. This will include both the loaded tongue weight of your trailer along with any added weight coming from behind the rear axle of your Grand Cherokee. You will want this number to fall somewhere around the middle on the tongue weight capacity range for the system you choose.
A trailer's tongue weight should be around 10-15% of the its total weight. With this in mind, we can estimate the tongue weight of your Jayco to be between 320 and 480 pounds. We will want to leave some wiggle room to account for added weight coming from behind the rear axle of your Jeep.
I recommend looking at the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System # EQ37060ET. This has a tongue weight capacity of 200-600 pounds, which will work perfectly for your towing setup. It features an integrated 4-point sway control to limit side-to-side movement. I have attached a video demonstration on this system for you to check out.
Going with sway control only will also provide benefit by reducing trailer sway and improving handling in adverse conditions. If you do decide to go this route, I recommend the Reese Friction Sway Control Kit # 83660. This will attach to either side of the trailer tongue and can be removed with just 2 clips. I have included an installation video that you can use for reference.
I have also attached an article on weight distribution systems that you might find helpful.
Products Referenced in This Question
Reese Friction Sway Control Kit - Economy - by Draw-Tite, Reese and Hidden Hitch
- Accessories and Parts
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- Sway Control Parts
- Reese
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 6,000 lbs GTW, 600 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 400 lbs
- 500 lbs
- Equal-i-zer
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
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on Weight Distribution Hitch
