Recommended Weight Distribution System for Both Dump Trailer and Travel Trailer Applications

Question:

Thank you! I looked at the dump trailer and it has a big tool box where the weight distribution bars would go so the assumption is that they do not use weight distribution systems, I guess you just even out the load in the box? But they could use a sway bar per input from another user. So I'd still need the 10K hitch for the dump trailer and perhaps a swaybar. I would want the hitch and sway bar to work with the weight distribution system on the ~7K travel trailer. Does Blue Ox (or another manf.) make a 10K hitch with 7K wt. dist. bars and sway system? If so, would the sway device work on the dump trailer with the tool box? Thank you

asked by: Dave R

Helpful Expert Reply:

For your weight distribution system, I recommend the Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - Clamp On - 15,000 lbs GTW, 1,500 lbs TW # BXW1500 with hitch ball # 19286 for your 10K dump trailer and then you will simply need different spring bars for your travel trailer. I recommend the Replacement Spring Bars for Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution System # BXW4007 for that application. All of the other components of the system will work fine with both applications. These bars are easy to change out as needed for each application in just a few seconds.

Total tongue weight is the reasoning for the separate spring bar applications as total tongue weight is the loaded trailer tongue weight along with any cargo behind the rear axle of your truck. The total tongue weight range of these two trailers will likely be different enough to require both the trunnion bar capacity options.

expert reply by: Jason S

Dave

5/1/2018

Jason S.

5/1/2018

You want to pick the system for your 7,000 lb travel trailer off the total tongue weight. The total tongue weight is the loaded trailer tongue (10-15% of the total weight) along with any cargo behind the rear axle of your truck. That trailer tongue weight will be between 700 and 1050 lbs plus the cargo behind the rear axle of your truck. The Blue Ox Sway Pro will be a little too big for the best fit, so I recommend the Reese Strait-Line Weight Distribution System w Sway Control # RP66084. This system is rated for total tongue weights between 600-1200 lbs and has the best sway control of all the systems by utilizing the dual cams and hot rolled spring bars. It actively fights sway to keep your trailer in line with your truck. I've attached a couple videos to assist. You will also want # A-90 for a 2 inch ball or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch ball. You could use this system for the dump trailer as well if you use chain hanger brackets # RP58305 so the interference wouldn't be an issue. If you don't like the dual cams, then the next best option is # RP66560 which is rated for 600-1200 lbs as well and will help control sway. For your dump trailer, you will most likely need some drop at your hitch ball, so I recommend the Curt Ball Mount 4" Drop - 10,000 lbs # C45311 along with the hitch balls listed above and then use friction sway bar # 83660. Then you will use bracket # RP26003. Evening your load will also help and less weight behind the rear axle of your trailer is better for control.