Weight Distribution Hitch for a new Trailer

Question:

2017 Silverado 2WD, 5.3L, 18inch wheels Planning to buy Primetime Tracer Air 215, hitch 454lbs, UVW 4080lbs, CCC 1974lbs Never had trailer, not sure about weight of contents, but just one occupant. What WD hitch do you recommend? I have watched videos, like the bars vs. chains, am leaning towards Equalizer with the bar lift tool. I understand undersized is bad. Also that oversized can cause issues as well. Since this trailer is on the lighter side, there is no obvious match. I would appreciate your recommendation. Thank you!

asked by: Terri S

Expert Reply:

In order to choose the best weight distribution hitch, you will first need to know your total tongue weight. That weight is going to be the tongue weight of your fully loaded and ready to go trailer plus the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your 2017 Chevy Silverado 1500. To determine this you can use a scale such as the # e99044 or by using one of the methods outlined in the help article on determining tongue weight I've linked for you.

Like you said, the right fit is important, so for optimal performance, you want your total tongue weight to lie in the middle of the tongue weight capacity of your weight distribution system.

You mentioned the Equal-i-zer # EQ37100ET, which has a tongue weight capacity between 700 lbs and 1,000 lbs. You may need a system with a bit of a lower capacity, such as the Reese Strait-Line # RP66083, which has a tongue weight capacity between 500 lbs and 800 lbs.

With your set-up, it seems unlikely you'd need a weight distribution system with a higher tongue weight capacity, though it is possible. I recommend going with either the Equali-i-zer or Reese Strait-Line, with both preventing sway instead of simply reducing it, and both allow backing up with the system in place.

I have added links to review videos of each system for you, as well as a link to a helpful article on weight distribution you may find useful.