Trailer Towing Capacity When Weight Distribution System is Used
Question:
This hitch says it can be used to pull up to 6000 pounds with a weight distribution hitch but the 1997 Toyota Land Cruiser is rated at 5000 pounds so can I use this with a WD system for 6000?
asked by: Mike
Expert Reply:
A hitch's rated towing capacity will often increase with use of a weight distribution/sway control (WD/SC) system. The Draw-Tite # 41015 does have a 5K base tow rating but this increases to 6K when such a system is employed.
However, this does NOT change the vehicle's own rating which remains as determined by Toyota. The WD/SC system only affects the rated capacity of the hitch, but not the vehicle. The only exception to this is if the vehicle owner's manual explicitly states that use of a WD/SC hitch will increase its rating.
