Correct Weight Distribution/Sway Control Hitch for 2011 Coachmen Catalina 21BH Tandem-Axle Trailer

Question:

I have a 2011 Coachman Catalina bh21. Your guide is steering me towards a 1200lb 12000lb hitch. When I do the math it looks more like I should be using 1000lb 10000lb hitch. I just want to make sure I am getting the right one. I was looking at the Fastway hitch but I am open to suggestions. Tow vehicle 2012 sierra 1/2 ton pickup. Gross trailer weight 7500lbs Dry weight of trailer 4257 with a tongue weight of 563lbs. Thanks

asked by: Josh

Expert Reply:

Thank you for providing the weight specs for your 2011 Coachmen Catalina 21BH tandem-axle travel trailer.

The trailer's empty/dry hitch weight of 563-lbs suggests that when you have it loaded for a trip, with water and propane tanks filled and all your supplies and gear loaded, the actual loaded tongue weight (TW) will be more like 800 to 900-lbs. This loaded TW is what you want to use to select a weight distribution system. The linked article may be useful to you.

The easiest way to measure your loaded TW is the etrailer scale # e99044. This allows you to accurately measure the TW with your usual mix of gear and that is what you want to do when you choose a weight distribution system. If you carry cargo in the tow vehicle, say a big cooler or generator, you also need to add the weight of any such cargo that sits behind the rear axle since it will act like trailer TW. This total loaded TW is the key to selecting the right system. Ideally your total loaded TW will fall in the middle of the operating range for the system you use.

For example, if your actual total loaded TW measures 700- to 900-lbs then the Fastway e2 system # FA92-00-1000 (shown in the photo) is perfect, since it operates effectively from 600- to 1000-lbs of tongue weight. Again, you want the actual total loaded TW to fall near the middle of the system operation range. A video for this system is included for you.

All you need to add is the hitch ball, like # 63840.