Weight Distribution Needed for Towing a 5,600 lb Camper with a 2014 Ram 1500

Question:

I have a 2014 Ram 1500 going to pull a 27 foot camper trailer weighing 5600 LBS empty. I do not have a tongue weight. Am I correct to assume the 900LB tongue weight and 9,000 lb trailer weight distribution would work for me? I would like to order a weight distribution with sway control. I was watching a video on a 2014 Ram 2500 and it gave part numbers for equipment needed for that set up. Is that the same equipment I should consider? Thanks,

asked by: Mel

Expert Reply:

I believe the video you were referring to the linked video of the Fastway e2 # FA94-00-1033. Although the system is rated similarly to the Fastway e2 # FA92-00-1000 that you referenced, this video was shot more for demonstration purposes than anything. Personally I prefer the trunnion style bars like what you referenced as they have better ground clearance than the round bar systems.

To determine the best Weight Distribution (WD) system for your towing setup you will first need to find your Total Tongue Weight (TTW). This includes the loaded Tongue Weight (TW) of your trailer plus the weight of anything sitting behind the rear axle of your 2014 Ram 1500. Once you know your TTW you want to choose a WD system that has a TW range that your TTW falls in the middle of. A properly loaded trailer will have a TW that is 10-15% of the loaded weight of the trailer. The easiest way to know what your loaded TW is would be to use a scale like part # e99044 which allows you to get a feel for how you need to load your cargo.

If your TTW falls within the 600 lbs - 1,000 lbs weight range of the e2 # FA92-00-1000 then I do recommend going with this system as it has received great reviews from our customers. The hitch ball is sold separately so if you need a 2" hitch ball use part # A-90 but if you need a 2-5/16" hitch ball use part # 63840. We do recommend using a thin-walled socket like part # EQ70-00-4800 to install the hitch ball.

I have attached a review video of this system for you to reference as well as some helpful articles for more information about WD systems.