Weight Distribution System Needed for Aluminum Snowmobile Trailer Pulled by a 2016 Toyota Tacoma

Question:

Hi, I am interested in getting a weight distribution system for my truck. I have a 2016 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab with the Trailer package. GVWR 5600lbs. tow capacity 6700lbs. My trailer is a Sno-Pro Hybrid 101x12 Aluminum snowmobile trailer. I primarily pull this trailer, and only in the winters snowy/slippery roads. The trailer has a curb weight of 1025lbs, and a GVWR of 2990lbs. It typically has 2 snow-mobiles and gas cans for a total content weight of roughly 1200lbs. Because the trailer is aluminum, i do not want to have to drill any holes in it to mount a weight distribution system. Also, should i consider a sway control system with this? i currently use a 0 hitch to keep the trailer level with the ground. Will i be able to adjust the height of the ball on a weight distribution system? Thanks Please let me know if i can provide any other details. i am not sure what the best system is to buy for this setup.

asked by: Paul

Helpful Expert Reply:

First and foremost you will want to check to see if your trailer is rated for a Weight Distribution (WD) system. Since aluminum is not as heavy duty as steel some trailer manufacturers prohibit the use of a WD system as it could damage the trailer frame.

If you are okay to use a WD system on your trailer then you will want to choose a WD system with a Tongue Weight (TW) range that the Total Tongue Weight (TTW) of your towing setup falls in the middle of. To find the TTW of your towing setup you will need to add the TW of your fully loaded and ready-to-go trailer along with the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your tow vehicle. Keep in mind that a properly loaded trailer will have a TW that is 10-15% of the loaded weight of your trailer.

For your application I recommend going with the Reese Steadi-Flex # 66557. It has a TW range of 250 lbs - 400 lbs, comes with built-in sway control, and has an adjustable shank for you to keep your trailer level.

It does come with a shank that fits a 2 inch receiver but the hitch ball is sold separately. You can use part # 63845 for a 2 inch hitch ball or part # 63847 for a 2-5/16 inch hitch ball.

I have attached a review video for this WD system as well as some helpful articles for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jon G