How to Prevent Truck From Sagging When Towing

Question:

Hello! I have a 2018 Toyota Tacoma that sags a bit when I'm towing. Can you give me the best option for stopping it from sagging?

asked by: Matthew R

Expert Reply:

The best way to prevent a vehicle like your 2018 Toyota Tacoma from sagging is with the use of a weight distribution system. What happens when you tow is that weight gets transferred to the rear axle of your tow vehicle which causes it to sag. A weight distribution system will transfer that weight to each of the axles on your trailer and tow vehicle, stopping it from sagging and greatly enhancing your towing experience due to improved handling from your tow vehicle and the sway control many of these weight distribution systems have.

In order to choose the best weight distribution system you will first need 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 tow vehicle.

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 tow vehicle and you'll have your TTW. 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.

The weight distribution system I recommend is the Equal-i-zer because this system prevents sway instead of just manages it via 4 points of sway control via friction in the spring bars. It also uses clamp-on brackets so you won't have to drill along your trailer frame, and allows you to back up with the system on. Our customers who have used this system regard it very highly, with well over 400 reviews it has averaged nearly 5 out of 5 stars, as you can see on the product pages.

The right Equal-i-zer will depend on your TTW, as I mentioned:

- Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System # EQ37040ET for total tongue weights (TTW) up to 400 lbs

- Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System # EQ37060ET for TTW between 200 lbs and 600 lbs

- Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System # EQ37100ET for TTW between 600 lbs and 1,000 lbs

- Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System # EQ37120ET for TTW between 800 lbs and 1,200 lbs

- Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System # EQ37140ET for TTW between 1,000 lbs and 1,400 lbs

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 have added links to video reviews of the Equal-i-zer for you to check out as well.