Is Weight Distribution Needed for a 2018 Forest River Cherokee Wolf Pup 16BHS

Question:

We have 1. 2017 Chevy Silverado 1500 LT, V8, 4 door, tow package with brakes OEM 2. 2005 GMC Yukon XL V8, tow package, OEM, no trailer braking system We purchased a 2018 FR Cherokee WOlf Pup, 16BHS limited package, aluminum wheels, empty weight from factory is 3,098, fully loaded is 4,000 total length is 21.5, total height is 106inch width is 71 GVWR 3877 Hitch weight 377 UVW 3097 CCC 780 Do we need sway bars or a weight distribution hitch? thank you,

asked by: Trish

Expert Reply:

The general rule of thumb is that if the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the trailer is more than 50% of the GVWR of the vehicle, a weight distribution system is recommended. Since the 3877 GVWR of your trailer will in fact be more than 50% of the GVWR for both your 2017 Chevrolet Silverado and 2005 GMC Yukon, I would recommend you use a weight distribution system.

In order to choose the correct weight distribution system, you will need to find the total tongue weight (TTW) of your towing setup by adding the tongue weight (TW) of both your loaded ready to tow trailer and any cargo stored behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle.

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 TTW to fall in the middle of the weight distribution's 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.

As long as the TTW of your towing setup does not exceed 600 lbs I recommend using the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System part # EQ37060ET which is one of the best weight distribution systems on the market. The Equal-i-zer has a 4-point sway control system that works to both prevent and reduce trailer sway. I have attached a review video of this system for you as well.

For a brake controller, I recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller part # 90195 which is one of our best selling brake controllers due to it's easy to use LCD display and integrated safeguards. In order to install this controller on your Yukon you will also need part # 3015-P.