Recommended Weight Distribution System for Varying Tongue Weights with Maximum of 1,300 Pounds

Question:

I have read that tongue weight for WD Hitches should include truck cargo behind the rear axle. I have also read that WD hitches work best when properly set up for the exact tongue weight. Since truck cargo can vary a lot think 800 pound 4 wheeler loaded on some trips and not on others, what is the easiest to adjust High End Max Sway Control WDH with max TW of 1300 pounds? Some look extremely difficult adding washers whereas some may be less involved. Thank you. Ordered a lot of equipment from you and always satisfied with your service.

asked by: Robert C

Helpful Expert Reply:

You are exactly right that you will want to factor in added cargo weight coming from behind the rear axle of your truck when determining your setup's total tongue weight for choosing a weight distribution system. Weight distribution systems do feature a tongue weight capacity range though, which gives you some wiggle room to account for varying loads on the truck or trailer.

If you're looking at a maximum of around 1,300 pounds for your total tongue weight, I recommend taking a look at the Reese Strait-Line Weight Distribution System # RP66130. This is a fantastic system that has a tongue weight capacity range of 800 to 1,500 pounds. Ideally you will want to fall near the middle of this range for the absolute best results, but as long as you stay within it the system will work very well. This range gives you 700 pounds to work with to account for an occassional 4 wheeler in the truck bed or other additional cargo that may vary between trips.

Once you perform the initial setup of the system, you may just need to adjust the chain to increase or decrease tension if you have a large tongue weight variance from trip to trip. Small changes between trips shouldn't really require any adjustments. I have attached the complete installation instructions so you can see the exact process for adjusting and setting up the system for best results.

You will just need to add an adjustable shank # RP54970 and compatible hitch ball like the 2-5/16 inch # C40030. I have included a short video demonstration on this weight distribution system that you can also check out.

expert reply by: Chris R