Recommendation For Weight Distribution on a 2007 Dodge Ram Towing a 32 Foot Travel Trailer

Question:

Wondering which weight distributing hitch would fit my needs best for a 2007 Dodge 1500 SLT towing a 32 foot travel trailer with 6400 dry weight and 860 hitch weight. Also any other items you would recommend for this set up???

asked by: Kelly

Expert Reply:

To choose a weight distribution system for your 2007 Dodge Ram 1500 SLT you will need a system that has a tongue weight capacity range that encompasses the trailer tongue weight loaded and ready to tow, plus the weight of any gear in the tow vehicle, behind the rear axle. You will also want to make sure that your existing hitch on your Dodge Ram is compatible with a weight distribution system.

With the tongue weight on your 32 foot travel trailer being 860 pounds, the 600 to 1,200 pound tongue weight rating on the Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System, part # RP66560, you have referenced, would be a good choice. This system uses a friction type sway control.

Another recommendation I would have for you would be a weight distribution system with a dual-cam sway control system. The Reese Strait-Line Weight Distribution System, # RP66084, uses the dual-cam sway control, and is also rated at 600 to 1,200 pounds tongue weight capacity. I have included links to the installation details on both hitches below along with a video showing a typical installation.

Dual-cam systems are superior to friction systems because the dual-cam design stops trailer sway before it starts. In a friction system, the friction pads work to try to stop sway after sway has already started. I am including a FAQ on weight distribution and sway control that covers the various aspects of both types of systems.

The only other component you would need is a properly sized hitch ball, if you do not already have one, with a 1-1/4 inch diameter shank. You can use # 19286 (2-5/16 inch diameter ball) or # A-90 (2 inch diameter ball) depending on the size of your trailer coupler.