Choosing the Best Weight Distribution System for 2018 Rockwood 2104S Trailer With 6,000 lb GVWR

Question:

I appreciate all the info you've given me on the Reese WDS's. Although I like the Reese RP66084, I don't like that installation requires drilling into the frame. In the long term it will rust and probably fail. Is there a similar product from Reese or another mfg'r that functions equally well without having to do any drilling?

asked by: Michael

Expert Reply:

In order to determine the correct weight distribution system, you will need to know your total tongue weight (TTW) which is the tongue weight of your loaded Rockwood 2104S plus the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your 2014 Ram 1500. Typically, your tongue weight is going to be between 10% and 15%% of your trailer's GVWR, and according to my research, your new 2018 Rockwood 2104S trailer has a GVWR of 6,028 lbs.

That would put your TTW in the range of 800 lbs and you would need Reese Strait-Line model # RP66084, which has a tongue weight capacity between 600 lbs and 1,200 lbs. The reason for this is because the ideal system would be one in which your TTW would fall somewhere in the middle of the weight distribution system's tongue weight capacity. The Strait-Line # RP66073 you asked about would not be the correct system because it has a tongue weight capacity of between 400 lbs and 800 lbs, which would not be enough for your trailer.

Before getting any system, you will want to verify your TTW; to do this you will need to find your trailer's loaded tongue weight using a scale such as the etrailer # e99044 or by using one of the methods outlined in the help article on determining tongue weight I've linked for you. From there, simply add on the weight of the cargo behind the rear axle of your Ram and you'll have your TTW.

In regard to installing the Strait-Line it would be hard to gauge how difficult it would be for an individual because it depends on a number of factors such as their experience installing these types of systems. The Steadi-Flex will be partially bolted onto your trailer's tongue, so drilling is going to be required. I've linked the install directions for you to take a look at. Also please keep in mind that this weight distribution system will require a hitch ball, either # A-90 for a 2" ball or # 19286 for a 2-5/16" ball.

I've added links to video reviews of the Strait-Line for you to take a look at as well.

expert reply by: Kyle S

Michael

1/29/2018

Kyle S.

1/29/2018

There is a great weight distribution option for you that isn't going to require any drilling. If your total tongue weight was 800 lbs then I recommend checking out the Equal-i-zer # EQ37100ET, which uses brackets that clamp on your Rockwood's frame and can adjust if you have any accessories such as a battery box mounted on the frame. Like the Strait-Line, the Equal-i-zer will prevent sway, but does so via friction in the spring bars; it will also allow backing up with the system installed. This system comes with everything you will need for installation, though it is recommended you use Thin Walled Socket for Equal-i-zer Hitches # EQ70-00-4800 to make installing the hitch ball a simpler process. I've added a link to this system's installation instructions for you to take a look at, as well as links to video reviews so you can get a closer look at how the Equal-i-zer works.