Weight Distribution System Recommendation for a Trailer With a Changing Tongue Weight

Question

Question:

I am looking for a WD hitch recommendation. I have a 2003 Chevy 1500HD. I just bought a 2008 KZ Coyote Rockclimber CRC220 toy hauler. It has a 8 foot front platform for two quads. It is just over 32foot long, with the trailer area about 22foot feet long + 8 foot platform + tongue. It is 4930 pounds unloaded, about 7000 pounds fully loaded with two quads. It came with a Husky 800 lb. tongue weight hitch, but I dont think its adequate. I weighed the tongue with and without the quads on the platform. Sometimes, of course, I will camp without them, so the tongue weight will be different. Without the quads, the tongue weight is a little under 600 pounds. With both quads, which together weigh about 1500 pounds, the tongue weight is right at 1000 pounds. I prefer a trunnion style and was looking at the Reese # RP61009 because it had a range of acceptable tongue weights up to 1200#. I may also add one of the sway control units, but so far, sway has not been an issue at all. I also am intrigued by the Fastway e2, but it does not appear adjustable for when I have the lighter TW. Thoughts?

asked by: Ed

0

Expert Reply:

The Reese Weight Distribution Kit, # 49570, would be a good addition for your 2008 KZ Coyote Rockclimber. This system has the greatest tongue weight range for the fluctuating tongue weight on your trailer. Please note that anything loaded behind the rear axle of your 2003 Chevrolet 1500 HD also contributes to the tongue weight.

The Fastway weight distribution systems do not list a tongue weight range, but a tongue weight maximum capacity. As far as having the ability to make adjustments with a single system for a wide range of tongue weights, the Pro Series would be the better route to go.

For your trailer, I also recommend adding two friction sway control bars, # 83660, if you decide to go with the Reese system. Two sway control units are recommended for any trailer that is longer than 26 ft and/or over 6,000 lbs. You will also need to pick up a hitch ball since a hitch ball is not included with this system. For a 2 inch hitch ball use # A-90, for a 2-5/16 inch hitch ball use # 19286.

Another weight distribution system that I would recommend looking at is the Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System with Sway Control, # RP66560. This system has the same tongue weight range and trunnion style bars as the Pro Series, but the sway control is built-in with the integrated friction pads on the spring bar hangers making the system much easier to use.

I have attached product links to the parts that I have referenced as well as a weight distribution article and a tongue weight article for you to review. Keep in mind, that you will need to adjust the tension on the spring bars when you plan on changing the tongue weight of your trailer.