Determining Correct Weight Distribution System for 11,000 Pound Trailer
Question:
so I have a 32.5foot TT that weighs 11,000lbs and Im going to pull it with an 08 Dodge 2500, but i have no idea what my tongue wt is and what weight distribution system to go with could you please help thanks
asked by: Brent M
Expert Reply:
As you referenced in your question, determining your towing setup's total tongue weight is the most important factor when choosing a properly rated weight distribution system. The total tongue weight will be the loaded tongue weight of your trailer (as if loaded and ready for a trip) plus any added cargo weight coming from behind the rear axle of your Dodge Ram. Ideally, your total tongue weight will fall somewhere near the middle of the operating range for the system you choose.
Using a tongue weight scale like the etrailer # e99044 is the most accurate method for determining your trailer's loaded tongue weight. I have also attached an article that details various other methods that you can look through.
In the meantime, we can also calculate an estimate based on the 11,000 pound total trailer weight you mentioned. If this is the fully loaded weight of the trailer, we can estimate a loaded tongue weight to be around 1,100 to 1,650 pounds. This is because a trailer's tongue weight should be between 10 and 15 percent of its total weight.
If this ends up being an accurate estimate, I recommend taking a look at the Reese Strait-Line Weight Distribution System # RP66075. This system features a tongue weight capacity of 1,000 to 1,700 pounds and will do a great job of evenly distributing weight over the axles of your Ram and trailer. Its self-adjusting, self-centering sway control will keep your trailer in line despite crosswinds, cornering, and serving. You will just need to add an adjustable shank like # RP54970 for 2 inch receivers. A compatible hitch ball with a 1-1/4 inch diameter shank will also be needed.
I have attached a short video demonstration on this system for you to check out, along with a couple articles that you might find helpful.
Products Referenced in This Question
etrailer Tongue Weight Scale for Campers and Utility Trailers - 2,000-lb Capacity
- Tongue Weight Scale
- Analog Scale
- 2000 lbs
- etrailer
more information >
Reese Weight Dist Shank - 12-1/4" Long - 2" Drop to 6-1/2" Rise - 1,500 lbs TW
- Accessories and Parts
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- Shanks
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Round - 2 Inch Drop
- Trunnion - 1 Inch Drop
- Round - 5 Inch Rise
- Trunnion - 6 Inch Rise
- Reese
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Strait-Line Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - No Shank - Trunnion Bar - 17K GTW, 1,700 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Shank Not Included
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Fits 2-1/2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 1200 lbs
- 1300 lbs
- 1400 lbs
- 1500 lbs
- 1600 lbs
- Reese
more information >
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Instructions
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on Weight Distribution Hitch
