Choosing Weight Distribution System for 21 Foot Trail Lite Travel Trailer Towed by 2006 Honda Pilot

Question:

I have a 2006 Honda pilot and a 21 trail lite travel trailer. The trailer is between 3500 and 4000 lbs loaded. I get bounce and sway when I haul the trailer. What are the best options for a distribution and sway control system. Is there anything else I need. How do I know if my hitch is distribution capable.

asked by: Brian

Expert Reply:

Take a look at the rating sticker on your hitch. If your hitch is capable of using a weight distribution system, two different weight capacities will be listed. A GTW (gross trailer weight) and TW (tongue weight) capacity will be listed, as well as a GTW and TW amount for weight distribution. All of the Class III hitches we offer for the 2006 Pilot are capable of being used with weight distribution.

According to my research, the Pilot is rated by Honda for a 3500-4500 lb towing capacity (depending on how the vehicle is equipped). Keep in mind, although using a W/D system can increase the capacity of a hitch, you will still be limited to the manufacturers stated towing capacity for your vehicle.

Tongue weight is typically calculated as 10 to 15 percent of the fully loaded trailer weight. The weight of anything stored behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle also needs to be included in that tongue weight figure.

As a first step, I would recommend using a truck scale to confirm the exact fully-loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of your Trail Lite travel trailer.

I would recommend a Strait-Line weight distribution system. This system combines a weight distribution system with the top-of-the-line Reese Dual Cam sway control. Rather than merely resisting trailer sway like other systems, the Dual Cam literally forces the trailer to stay in line behind the trailer, except when making turns.

If you find the exact tongue weight falls in the 400-800 lb range, I would recommend part # RP66083. If your tongue weight is between 200-600 lbs, use part # RP66082. For best ride quality, you want your tongue weight to come as close as possible to the middle of the effective range of the system.

Both systems include the weight distributing shank, but the appropriately sized trailer ball with a 1-1/4 inch threaded shank will be needed. For a 2 inch ball, use part # A-90. For a 2-5/16 inch wheel, use part # 19286.