Weight Distribution and Sway Control Recommendation for a Pole Tongue Adapter and Boat Trailer

Question:

I have a pole tongue 19 ft boat trailer Wt 2,000# with tongue Wt 300#. Can I use the above adapter with the Reese 350 Mini-Lite Weight Distribution System, or is there a better adapter available with out having to fabricate one? Years ago I used an adapter that was welded to the stationary ball part of the surge brake coupler on an EZ Lift chain hitch system. It worked great for many years, but I sold it with the boat..

asked by: Charles G

Expert Reply:

I spoke with my contact at Reese and I do have a solution that would work for you. First, he did state that the Reese 350 Mini-Lite Weight Distribution System would not work with the Pole Tongue Adapter, # RP58393 because the pole tongue adapter does not have a long enough mounting surface to properly install the system.

Instead, I recommend going with the Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System, # 66557, for a couple of reasons. First, this system will work with the pole tongue adapter, so there are no compatibility issues. Second, with a tongue weight at 300 pounds, it would be a good idea to go with a system that better encompasses the trailer tongue weight.

The SC system I recommend has a tongue weight capacity range of 200 to 600 pounds. Tongue weight includes not only the tongue weight of the trailer but also the weight of any gear loaded behind the rear axle of the vehicle. This system comes with the correct shank so you would just need a properly sized ball, # 19286 (2-5/16 inch diameter) or # A-90 (2 inch diameter).

I have included a link to the installation details for the SC system and a link to our FAQ article on weight distribution and sway control for you.

expert reply by: Michael H