How to Select the Right Weight Distribution System for Trailer With 7,753 lb GVWR
Question:
I am purchasing a 2019 Avenger ATI 24BHS camper. The total length of the camper is 28.2foot with a dry weight of 5416lbs / total weight of 7753. I am pulling it with a 2004 Dodge Durango with a 5.7 liter hemi. The sway control system I was advised to use is the Draw tite 49903 Pro Series Complete RB Wt. Dist. Kit w/Shank, Friction Sway Control, 2-5/16inch Chrome Hitch Ball, Sway Control Ball, Chains and Hardware, 10,000 lbs. GTW, 1000 lbs. TW. Is this the right system for my application.
asked by: Bill D
Expert Reply:
To start, the way you choose the best weight distribution system is to know your total tongue weight (TTW), which is the tongue weight of your fully loaded and ready to go trailer plus the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your 2004 Durango. The tongue weight is typically between 10% and 15% of your trailer's GVWR but you'll want to verify it by using a scale such as the etrailer # e99044 or by using one of the methods outlined in the help article on determining tongue weight I've linked for you. From there, simply add on the weight of the cargo behind the rear axle of your vehicle and you'll have your TTW.
Based on the 7,753 lbs GVWR you gave, your tongue weight would be in the 950 lbs range, and depending on the amount of cargo you have behind your Durango's axle, could be over 1,000 lbs. The ideal system would be one in which your TTW would fall somewhere in the middle of the weight distribution system's tongue weight capacity, and so the 1,000 lb tongue weight rating of the Pro Series you were advised about would not be a good choice.
Should it be in the 1,000 lb range, I recommend the Equal-i-zer # EQ37120ET. This system has a TTW range between 800 lbs and 1,200 lbs, uses clamp-on brackets so you won't have to drill along your trailer frame, allows you to back up with the system on, and prevents sway instead of just manages it with 4 points of sway control via friction in the spring bars. Our customers who have used this system regard it very highly, with well over 200 reviews it has averaged nearly 5 out of 5 stars, as you can see on the product page. This system comes with everything you need for installation though it is recommended you use thin-walled socket # EQ70-00-4800 to help install the hitch ball.
I've added a link to a video review of this system for you to take a look at as well.
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 >
Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 1000 lbs
- 1100 lbs
- Equal-i-zer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Thin Walled Socket for Equal-i-zer Hitches
- Accessories and Parts
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- Tools
- Socket
- Equal-i-zer
- Equal-i-zer
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Article: 5 Things to Know About Weight Distribution Hitches
- Article: 2 Steps for Finding the Right Weight Distribution Hitch Size
- Article: Which Sway Control Hitch is Right For Your Trailer?
- Q&A: Does the Hitch Ball Come Installed on the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution EQ37101ET?
- Article: Determining Trailer Tongue Weight
- Q&A: Which Roadactive Suspension Kit Fits 2023 Ford F-150
- Q&A: Recommended Socket to Install a Ball on a Fastway e2 Hitch
- Q&A: Best Equal-i-Zer Weight Distribution Hitch For 850 lb Tongue Weight
- Q&A: Does Weight Distribution Lower Tongue Weight on Hitch of Tow Vehicle
- Q&A: How Long is the Harness On The Hopkins Endurance Quick-Install 7-Way Trailer Connector # HM55FR?
- Q&A: Recommended Torque for Tightening Curt Hitch Balls to Ball Mount
- Article: 5 Tips to Confidently Choose Your Weight Distribution Hitch
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Article: 7 Common Questions Everyone Has About Trailer Tires