Recommended Weight Distribution System for 2017 Dutchmen Aerolite 174E  

Question:

Expert Reply:

The Equal-i-zer weight distribution system, part # EQ37060ET, might be a good option for your 2017 Aerolite 174E depending on how heavy it is when it's loaded. To determine the correct system we need the trailer's loaded tongue weight plus the amount of weight you add to the tow vehicle behind its rear axle because that counts as tongue weight in this instance.

The Aerolite's GVWR is 3,850 pounds. That's the heaviest the trailer is rated to be when fully loaded. Its loaded tongue weight should be between 10 to 15 percent of that so somewhere within 385 to about 578 pounds. If you're on the low side of that the Equal-i-zer is a great choice because it's rated up to 600 pounds of tongue weight but if you're on the high side you could be too heavy. Especially once you add in the weight you add behind your tow vehicle's rear axle.

The next Equal-i-zer system up is the 1,000 pound tongue weight system, part # EQ37100ET. This would likely work too but it's more than you need. Instead I recommend looking at either the Curt TruTrack, part # C17499, or the Fastway e2, part # FA92-00-0800. Both are rated up to 800 pounds tongue weight which is more like what you're going to need.

When comparing the Curt and the Fastway the main difference is the sway control. The Fastway systems have 2-point sway control which means there is friction fighting sway in two locations. Specially where the bars are sliding on the brackets that fit on the trailer frame. The Curt TruTrack has 4-point sway control, very similar to the Equal-i-zer, because there is friction at the same two points at the brackets as well as the two points where the bars fit into the head. If your main goal in purchasing weight distribution is because you're getting a lot of sway then the 4-point system is the way to go. If you're just looking for something to help on occasion when a big truck passes you or you get a sudden unexpected crosswind then the 2-point is plenty for you.

The Equal-i-zer systems come with everything you need. The only optional part we recommend with them is a thin-walled 1-7/8 inch socket, part # ALL643216, because it makes installing the hitch ball much easier. We recommend the same socket for the Fastway systems as well since they assemble very much like the Equal-i-zer systems. Both the Fastway and the Curt systems do not include hitch balls but they take the same size. If your trailer fits a 2 inch hitch ball use part # EQ91-00-6080 and if it fits a 2-5/16 inch use part # EQ91-00-6100.

I've also linked videos on each product as well as some help articles on weight distribution and tongue weight for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Charles S

0