Recommended Weight Distribution System for a 2016 Gulf Stream Ameri-lite Travel Trailer
Question:
Hi! Were interested in purchasing a 2016 Amerilite by Gulfstream and Im wanting to be sure our vehicle can handle towing. Im unsure of what weight distribution product will best accommodate. Any help is greatly appreciated.
asked by: Ashley
Expert Reply:
In order to determine your vehicle's maximum towing capacity, you would need to find both the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) and the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW). This will be located on the information tag placed inside the driver's door jamb. If you subtract the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of your vehicle from the (GCWR) that will give you the maximum Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) you can safely tow.
If the gross trailer weight (GTW) of your trailer is more than 50% of your gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), the use of a weight distribution system is recommended. In order to be sure you are choosing 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 (TTW) 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 distributions weight capacity. 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.
For a total tongue weight between 100-400 lbs, I recommend taking a look at the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control part # EQ37040ET or part # EQ37060ET for a total tongue weight between 200-600 lbs. The Equal-i-zer weight distribution systems are considered to be one of the best on the market. I have attached a review video on one of the systems for you as well.
Products Referenced in This Question
Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 4,000 lbs GTW, 400 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 200 lbs
- 300 lbs
- Equal-i-zer
more information >
Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 6,000 lbs GTW, 600 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 400 lbs
- 500 lbs
- Equal-i-zer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Tongue Weight Scale for Campers and Utility Trailers - 2,000-lb Capacity
- Tongue Weight Scale
- Analog Scale
- 2000 lbs
- etrailer
more information >
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on Tongue Weight Scale
