Recommended Weight Distribution System for Forest River Travel Trailer with 5436 GVWR

Question:

Thanks for your response Jason. If we decide to upgrade at some point in the near future and get a bigger RV, would it be safe to go with the one size up model... Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW, Item # EQ37120ET for towing my 5,436lb Forest River RV??

asked by: Gaspare

Expert Reply:

For your Forest River RV with a 5436 GVWR, I recommend the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control # EQ37100ET. This weight distribution system recommendation is based on your total tongue weight. Most trailers have between 10 and 15 percent of the total weight as the tongue weight, then you also need to add any cargo weight behind the rear axle of your truck to your loaded tongue weight. This gives you the total tongue weight for your weight distribution system and you want that weight to fall in the middle of the range of a weight distribution system.

This system is rated for a total tongue weight between 600 and 1000 lbs, so you should easily fall in the middle of that range. This will be a great system for you and will come with the hitch ball needed. I recommend # ALL643216 to help you install the hitch ball as it does require a special thin walled socket. This system will work well with you 2005 GMC Sierra and Forest River Travel Trailer.

expert reply by: Jason S

Gaspare

1/17/2018

Jason S.

1/17/2018

The Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System # EQ37120ET is rated for total tongue weights of 800-1200 lbs. So as long as you have that 800 lb total tongue weight which includes your loaded trailer tongue weight and any cargo behind the rear axle of your truck you will be fine. If you are lighter than that 800 lbs combined, then this system may create too rigid a ride for you. Most people have a problem with overloading, not under-loading when camping, so you should be okay. If you need to determine your loaded tongue weight, you can use the etrailer Trailer Tongue Weight Scale # e99044 for an accurate reading.