Recommended Weight Distribution System for Trailer with 6,580 Pound Dry Weight

Question:

im looking at your weight disturbution hitch part number c17500 . i have a 2016 chevy silverado1500 . the trailer im needing it for dryweight is 6580 with cargo weight weight of 1820.and the hitch weight is 790lbs. is this the one im needing to do the job?

asked by: William

Expert Reply:

When looking for a properly rated weight distribution system, the most important factor to consider is the total tongue weight of your setup. This number includes both the loaded tongue weight of the trailer (as if it is loaded and ready for a trip), along with any added cargo weight coming from behind the rear axle of your Silverado 1500. Ideally, this number will fall near the middle of the operating range for the system you choose.

The most accurate method for determining the trailer's loaded tongue weight is with a scale like the etrailer # e99044, however we can calculate an educated estimate in the meantime. You mentioned a trailer dry weight of 6,580 pounds in your question. Since we need to determine the trailer's loaded tongue weight, we will want to add the 1,820 pound cargo weight you also mentioned to give us a loaded total weight of 8,400 pounds. From here, we can estimate a loaded tongue weight of 840 to 1,260 pounds, since a trailer's tongue weight should be around 10 to 15 percent of its total weight. The 790 pound hitch weight you provided likely refers to the trailer's dry/empty tongue weight.

If this ends up being an accurate estimate, the Curt TruTrack Weight Distribution System # C17500 that you referenced might be a bit under-rated, as it features a tongue weight capacity of 800 to 1,000 pounds. A better option might be with the Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System # RP66561, which features a tongue weight capacity of 700 to 1,400 pounds.

This is a really nice system that will evenly distribute weight over the axles of your Silverado and trailer, while the integrated sway control will limit side-to-side movement. The adjustable shank is already included so you will only need to add a compatible hitch ball like the 2 inch # A-90 or the 2-5/16 inch # 19286.

I have attached a short video demosntration on this system, along with an article on weight distribution systems that you might also find helpful.