Is a Weight Distribution System Required for Towing a 3,000 lb Trailer
Question:
Is an equalizer hitch needed to tow a 3000 lb trailer?
asked by: Klaus
Expert Reply:
Any time you are towing a trailer that has a fully loaded weigh that is over 50 percent of the vehicle's gross weight, a weight distribution system is recommended.
If your vehicle weighs less than 6,000 lbs, a weight distribution system and trailer brakes should be used when towing a 3,000 lb trailer.
Assuming that the 3000 lb figure you mentioned represents the fully loaded and ready to tow weight of the trailer, the tongue weight will be between 300-450 lbs, plus the weight of any cargo carried behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle, whether it be in a truck bed or the cargo area of an SUV. You'll use this tongue weight figure to choose the weight capacity of the system.
The type of system you choose will depend on the type of trailer you're towing. Flat bed or utility trailers aren't typically susceptible to trailer sway if they're correctly loaded. If that's the type of trailer you have, a basic system like the Reese # RP65509 round bar system which is rated for tongue weights from 200-600 lbs would work great for you.
If you have a travel trailer or an enclosed cargo trailer, the tall sides will make it very vulnerable to sway cause by cross winds and passing or oncoming traffic. Using a weight distribution system with sway control is recommended. The Fastway # FA92-00-0600 system is rated for tongue weights between 250-600 lbs, and combines weight distribution with sway control that's effective on mild to moderate trailer sway.
Neither hitch includes the trailer ball. For a 2 inch ball, use # A-90 or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch ball.
Steve S.
1/24/2020
HI I have an 2011 f 150 crew cab with 3.7 v6 and a travel trailer with gvwr of 3675 lb and hitch weight of 360lbs . do I need a weight dist. hitch?
Jacob H.
1/24/2020
Manuel
4/17/2024
Products Referenced in This Question
2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-3/4" Long Shank - Chrome - 12,000 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2-5/16 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-3/4 Inch Shank Length
- 1-1/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 12000 lbs GTW
- Class IV
- Class V
- Draw-Tite
more information >
2" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-5/8 Inch Shank Length
- 1-1/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 10000 lbs GTW
- Class IV
- Class V
- CURT
more information >
Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control - Trunnion - 6,000 lbs GTW, 600 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 400 lbs
- 500 lbs
- Fastway
more information >
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on Weight Distribution Hitch
Manny
4/17/2024
I have Intech Sol Dawn dry 2700, full 3500, TW 300lbs. My vehicle is Lexus GX460, with Curt class3 tow hitch 500lbs capacity TW, do I need WDH. I’m just using Reese friction sway bar, is that enough. I change my bump stop to Timbren SES, to help sag, keep debating. I bought Camco Eaz Lift R3 curve, was thinking that’s over kill. Debating to return the WDH or use it.