Choosing the Correct Fastway e2 Weight Distribution System for Trailer with 5,980 Pound GVWR

Question:

Hello Im trying to decide between the 600 and 800 model. My trailer is 4312 dry and 5980 gross with a tongue of 480 lbs. The 600 model was my first of course this is the one but with the max of 6000 lbs so close to my gross of 5980lbs thought Id ask. Thanks

asked by: Mitchell H

Expert Reply:

Actually, I'm guessing between the 600 pound tongue weight Fastway e2, part # FA94-00-0600, and the 800 pound part # FA94-00-0800, you're going to need the larger one. And I wouldn't be surprised if the 1,000 pound system, part # FA94-00-1000, ends up working out even better. Either way, I can help you decide.

To figure out which is best for you find your trailer's loaded tongue weight; the gross trailer weight rating of a system isn't as important as long as your trailer is under it. The 480 pounds you mentioned is the dry tongue weight which doesn't really help becuase you need to choose a system that's rated for what the trailer weighs when it's being towed. Threre's a few ways you can find it and I've attached an article that lists them for you. The easiest is to weigh it using a tongue weight scale, part # e99044, when the trailer is loaded.

In addition to the loaded trailer's tongue weight you also need to add in the amount of weight you're going to have stored in the back of your tow vehicle behind its rear axle. When it comes to weight distribution this added weight is treated as tongue weight.

You want the combined number to fall somewhere within the range of the system you choose. So I think it's pretty safe to say that the loaded trailer's tongue weight (Usually between 10 to 15 percent of the trailer's weight) plus the weight behind the tow vehicle's rear axle will exceed 600 pounds. On top of that it could be pushing the max of the 800 pound system. If you're close to the 800 pounds I recommend going with the 1,000 pound system because it ranges from 600 to 1,000 pounds and you would be right in the middle which is perfect.

Whichever system you find to be the correct one you're also going to need a hitch ball with a 1-1/4 inch shank. If your trailer fits a 2 inch ball use part # EQ91-00-6080 or if your trailer fits a 2-5/16 inch ball use # EQ91-00-6100 instead.

If you still aren't sure which system to choose let me know your trailer's loaded tongue weight plus how much weight you plan to store behind your truck's rear axle and I'll make a more specific recommendation.