Best Method to Combat Vehicle Sag on a 2011 GMC Yukon XL

Question:

I am curious about installing air bags on 2011 Yukon denali xl. It already has the air shocks on it. The main question is, I pull a 26foot bumper trailer, weight of 4500lbs. With trailer attached, my denali still sags some. With maybe extra 200 lbs I would of thought it would not be. Will air bags help that in towing my trailer or is it to much for the vehicle. It says a gwr of 7500-8000lbs. Please help.

asked by: Jerry P

Helpful Expert Reply:

According to the GMC Trailer Towing Chart your 2011 GMC Yukon XL has a maximum towing capacity of 8,300 lbs. Generally speaking if your gross trailer weight (GTW) is more than 50% of the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) than a weight distribution system is highly recommended.

If you already have a weight distribution system I recommend weighing your current setup to ensure you have the properly rated spring bars. If you do not have a weight distribution system you will need to use the following method to choose one.

In order to choose the correct weight distribution system, you will want to find the total tongue weight of your towing setup by adding the tongue weight of both your loaded ready to tow trailer and any cargo stored behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle.

The average total tongue weight (TW) rating of a trailer is typically 10-15% of the gross trailer weight (GTW). An easy way to find this would involve using a tongue weight scale like the etrailer Trailer Tongue Weight Scale part # e99044. When choosing a weight distribution system, you will want your total tongue weight to fall in the middle of the weight distribution weight capacity range. For example, the ideal weight distribution system for a total tongue weight of 600 lbs. is one that is rated for 400-800 lbs. of tongue weight.

The best weight distribution systems we offer for the money is the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control hands down. All of our Equal-i-zer systems have an integrated 4-point sway control feature that not only minimizes trailer sway as it occurs but also helps to prevent it from even happening entirely.

For a total tongue weight between 200-600 lbs. I recommend using part # EQ37060ET. For a total tongue weight between 600-1,000 lbs. I recommend using part # EQ37100ET and part # EQ37120ET for a total tongue between 800-1,200 lbs.

The use of a properly rated and installed weight distribution system will not require the use of additional suspension enhancements. However, you could benefit from installing a set of airbags like the Air Lift AirLift 1000 Air Helper Springs for Coil Springs part # AL60769 as this will reduce the strain on your current suspension components in addition to improving ride quality.

I have included a few supporting videos for you as well.