Weight Distribution and Sway Control for a 2009 Dodge Journey and Forest River Surveyor 180T

Question:

I just recently retired and bought an 18 ft Forest River Surveyor 180T. I have not been able to get an owners manual, even from the manufacturer. But, Id like to know what the weight of the trailer is, empty and what type of weight distribution hitch I need and what type of sway bar would be best. I am pulling my trailer with a Dodge 2009 Journey. I have a Draw tite receiver and the ball is a 2 5/16. Electric brakes are on the a-frame trailer.

asked by: Sandy T

Expert Reply:

From what I could find, the trailer weighs about 2,367 pounds dry or 3,500 gross. That puts the tongue weight at about 350 pounds. This information is for a new model. There should be a sticker or plate on the tongue somewhere that lists the weights on it.

When choosing weight distribution you also have to add the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle in the tow vehicle to the tongue weight of the trailer when loaded and ready to tow. For a 350 pound tongue weight I recommend a system rated for 200 to 600 pounds tongue weight. That will provide a nice range with the 350 about in the middle which is what you want.

The ideal system will have dual-cam sway control like # RP66082. Dual-cam sway control proactively and aggressively resist the start of sway by forcing the vehicle and trailer to ride in straight line. Unlike friction sway control, you do not have to disconnect dual-cam sway control when backing up or in bad weather.

This system also comes with a shank so you will just need to add a ball. If the trailer coupler requires a 2-5/16 inch ball you would use # 19286. If it requires a 2 inch ball use # A-90. I have included a link to the installation details for the weight distribution system and an FAQ that should help.

expert reply by: Michael H