Best Weight Distribution, Sway Control, and Brake Controller for Trailer Towed with Chevy Colorado

Question:

We would like to know what our options and costs are for a weigh distributing hitch system with sway control. We will also need the cab brake controller. TOW VEHICLE: Chevy Colorado Extended cab 3.6Lt V6, Automatic GVW 5700# approximite 2” hitch reciever w/ 7-pin connector 7000# tow capacity TRAILER: Crossroads Zinger Z-1, 211RD Dry Weight 4322 GVWR 6500 Carrying Capacity 2178 Hitch Weight 552 Legnth 25’ Electric Brakes

asked by: Les D

Expert Reply:

For a weight distribution system, I recommend the Strait-Line Weight Distribution System w Sway Control - Trunnion Bar - 8,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs TW, Item # RP66083. This system is designed to prevent sway before it starts. It also allows for backing up and is compatible with electric brakes. It is self-adjusting and includes trunnion spring bars for superior strength and flexibility. Tilt is achieved with the serrated-washer design for easy adjustment. The tongue weight capacity is 400-800 lbs, with a gross towing weight of 8,000 lbs. This system requires a hitch ball with a 1-1/4-inch diameter shank, # A-90. I've attached a review video of the Strait-Line System for your convenience.

The Strait-Line system also includes an adjustable shank with a maximum rise of 6-1/2 inches and a maximum drop of 1-1/4 inches. I've attached an article on how to determine your necessary rise/drop for you to check out. If you need a more dramatic rise/drop, other shanks provide this, such as the Curt Welded Weight Distribution Shank, Item # C17123. The trunnion bar system provides a drop of 8-1/4 inches and a rise of 11-1/2 inches, while the round bar system provides a drop of 8-1/2 inches and a rise of 12-3/4 inches.

Keep in mind that the major consideration when choosing a weight distribution system is its tongue weight capacity. Tongue weight includes the tongue weight of your trailer plus the weight of the cargo that sits behind the rear axle of your vehicle. Typically, tongue weight should be about 10%-15% of your loaded trailer weight.

For a brake controller I recommend our Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller, # 90885. This brake controller is proportional, meaning that it will sense the pressure applied to your vehicle brakes and will apply a proportional amount to your trailer brakes for smooth stopping. Some vehicles have wiring adapters that plug directly into the brake controller and to a port beneath the dash. If you'd like to send me your vehicle year, I can check if your vehicle has one of these adapters and recommend one for you.