Weight Distribution and Sway Control Recommendation for a 2001 Chevy Silverado and 27 Foot Trailer  

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Expert Reply:

When choosing a weight distribution system you will want one that has a tongue weight capacity range that encompasses the trailer tongue weight, loaded and ready to tow. The tongue weight of a trailer should be between 10 and 15 percent of the gross trailer weight.

You also want to consider whether or not you want sway control. I recommend it especially if you tow the trailer frequently or at highway speeds. There are 2 types of sway control, friction and dual-cam. Friction sway control works to stop sway after sway has started making it a reactive system. I recommend dual-cam sway control because it stops sway before it starts making it a pro-active system.

I recommend something like the Strait-Line Weight Distribution w Sway Control, # RP66084. This system has a range of 600 to 1200 pounds tongue weight capacity and includes dual-cam sway control and an adjustable shank. You would just need a properly sized ball. If your current 2-5/16 inch ball has a 1-1/4 inch shank diameter, you could use it. Or use # 19286.

I have included a link to the installation details for the weight distribution system as well as a link to our FAQ article on weight distribution and sway control.

expert reply by: Michael H

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