Recommended Weight Distribution And Anti-Sway For Travel Trailer With 500 lb Tongue Weight

Question:

I have a Ram 1500 and a travel trailer which weights under 4000lbs dry. I would like anti sway set up. Which unit do you think would be best? I believe the tounge weight is about 500lbs. Im not sure if weight distribution is a factor? Thanx

asked by: Randall B

Helpful Expert Reply:

If you already have a weight distribution system with a chain style, you can add the Reese Friction Sway Control Kit - Economy - by Draw-Tite, Reese and Hidden Hitch # 83660. This friction sway bar will help trailers up to 26 feet long. With this system, I recommend the Reese Sway-Control Bracket for 2" Ball Mounts - Class III and IV # RP26003.

If you do not already have a weight distribution system, then I highly recommend we go that route and get a system with integrated sway control. For a tongue weight around 500 lbs, we can get a good idea as to the system that will fit your needs. Weight distribution is based on the loaded tongue weight of your trailer along with any cargo behind the rear axle of your truck. This is seen as tongue weight for a WD system.

For your system, I recommend the Strait-Line Weight Distribution System w Sway Control - Trunnion Bar - 8,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs TW # RP66083. This system is the only system that actively fights sway with the dual cam design and hot rolled spring bars. This will keep your trailer in a straight line until you make a turn and force the trunnion bar to overcome the cam, but as soon as you complete the turn the system will automatically connect and keep your trailer fighting sway again. I've attached videos to assist.

You will need a hitch ball like # A-90 for a 2 inch ball or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch option.