Weight Distribution for Travel Trailer Towed by 2014 Nissan Frontier

Question:

Hello. I have a 2014 Nissan Frontier 4X4 CC Pro4X. I am looking at a used travel trailer with a UVW of 3980lbs and a tongue weight of 530lbs. The frontier can handle 610lbs of tongue weight but with two loaded propane tanks and two batteries I think I’d be over the 610 maximum tongue load allowed. Would a WD hitch help lower that or is the weight of the WD hitch approximately 60-100lbs? going to put me way over the limit. My partner and myself would be the only two in the truck around 315lbs plus our 30lbs frenchie. Thank you.

asked by: Jeff R

Helpful Expert Reply:

Most Class III and above trailer hitches have a higher capacity weight rating with the use of weight distribution on the trailer. I cannot tell you what the weight distribution towing capacity of the hitch on your Frontier is but if the trailer hitch is rated for weight distribution the tongue weight capacity may be higher than 610 lbs. However, the use of a weight distribution system on the trailer will not lower the trailer's tongue weight. The good news, you do not have to factor the weight of the weight distribution system itself into your tongue weight number. If the hitch on the 2014 Nissan Frontier does not have a weight distribution weight capacity rating, you will not be able to exceed a 610 lb tongue weight without the possibility of failure.

If you determine you can use a weight distribution system, I recommend the Fastway weight distribution system part # FA92-00-0800 because it is designed for tongue weights between 400 and 800 lbs. The trunnion bars are easier to install into the weight distribution head because they are straight compared to round bars that require installation from underneath the head. The integrated 2-point sway control helps to prevent side-to-side movement and sway. You need a hitch ball with a 1 1/4 inch diameter shank part # C40030 for a 2 5/16 inch ball or part # A-90 for a 2 inch ball.

expert reply by: Heather A