Weight Distribution for Supertruss Extenssion and Boat Trailer With 450 lb Tongue Weight

Question:

I’m changing to a Torklift supertruss 60” due to increased camper length. We pull a 20’ Hewescraft that weighs about 4,200# with a tongue weight of about 450. I’m a little concerned about having that much weight hanging 60” out. Would weight distribution minimize the impact of tongue dead weight? We often travel to areas with rough roads and frost heaves.

asked by: JON S

Expert Reply:

When using the TorkLift SuperTruss Hitch Extension for SuperHitch Trailer Hitch Receivers - 60" Long # TLE1560 it is a good idea to use a weight distribution system because this will increase the tongue weight capacity of the extension from 500 lbs to 1,000 lbs if you have a SuperHitch Original or Magnum, and a weight distribution system will transfer the weight from the extension.

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. Since you mentioned a loaded tongue weight of 450 lbs you only need to add the weight of cargo behind your rear axle and will have the appropriately rated system.

For example if you had 75 lbs of cargo behind your rear axle and a 525 lb tongue weight you could use the Curt MV Weight Distribution System # C17050 which has a 500 lb to 600 lb total tongue weight capacity. If you had more cargo and a 625 lb total tongue weight, for example, you would need a system with a higher capacity such as the Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control # FA92-00-0800 which is for total tongue weights between 400 lbs and 800 lbs.

I've added links to video reviews of these systems for you to take a look at as well.

expert reply by: Kyle S