Recommended WD Hitch for a 7,800-lb GVW Trailer

Question:

Good morning, Im new to the WD side of trailer towing and the first set up I was sold just did not work seemed cheap as parts kept breaking/bending and researching problems always lead me to your site. So Im sure you get this a lot but what is the correct set up I would need. I have a 2011 Silverado with max tow rating of 9600 lbs at a 30 ft overall 7800lbs GVW trailer. Depending on the length/type of camping my tongue weight fluctuates from light to max. Eg sometimes I have a generator, fuel, firewood. So I was hoping you would be able to help me set up everything I would need to pull this trailer correctly and safely. Im starting from scratch so I would need a ball and whatever else as well. Thank you for your assistance. Oh and hopefully you will ship products to Canada.

asked by: Neil S

Expert Reply:

When you choose a WD system you want to choose one that has a Tongue Weight (TW) range that the Total Tongue Weight (TTW) of your towing setup falls in the middle of; too heavy and the ride will be stiff but too light and you won't even know the WD system is installed. You can find your TTW by adding the the TW of the fully loaded and ready-to-go trailer along with the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your 2011 Silverado. Keep in mind that a properly loaded trailer will have a TW that is 10-15% of the weight of the loaded trailer.

One system that may be the correct solution for your is the Reese Steadi-Flex # RP66560. This WD system has a TW range of 600 lbs - 1,200 lbs, comes with a shank compatible with a 2 inch receiver, and allows you to back up without having to disconnect anything. This system does not come with a hitch ball but you can use part # A-90 for a 2 inch hitch ball or part # C40030 for a 2-5/16 inch hitch ball.

expert reply by: Jon G