Recommended Weight Distribution System for a 2006 Nissan Armada with 6000-7000 Lb Trailer

Question:

Hello and Happy New Year. I recently towed a tandem axle 24foot long with 8foot interior height car hauler from South Georgia to Raleigh, NC. The sway was incredible and white knuckled driving the whole way. I have a three ball straight shank ball mount attached to my 2006 Nissan Armada. The trailer tongue is about 2 - 3inch lower than the ball mount. Trailer dry weight is 3500 lbs. Max loaded will be between 6500/7000 lbs. 2 5/16 ball size. Questions - Do I need a hitch? What set up would you recommend? Ive been looking at either the Pro series Item # PS49904 or a Reese product.

asked by: Tom

Expert Reply:

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 (TTW) 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 TW rating of a trailer is typically 10-15% of the 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.

If your TTW is between 400-800 lbs then part # RP66083 would be the correct system for you. The Reese weight distribution system work extremely well to reduce trailer sway. You can check out some their features in the review videos I have attached for you.

expert reply by: Conner L