Compatibility of Oversized Weight Distribution Hitch for Temporary Use on 2400 lb Cargo Trailer

Question:

Im picking up a cargo trailer that weighs 2400 lbs and will be driving it back home approximately 500 miles. I have a weight distribution hitch for an RV and that hitch is rated for 800 lbs and according to the manufacturer, down to 500 lbs. I would like to use this just to get the trailer back home, for purposes of sway control. Im towing with a 2010 Tundra rated for 10K lbs and not needing any weight distribution. While I know this is overkill, will it have a risk of causing any damage? Should I get the same sway control out of it as if I had sized correctly? Once I get it home, I will outfit it, add tools, etc., at which point, Ill know the weight so I can buy the right WD hitch.

asked by: Gary

Expert Reply:

That system is rated far too high as you know for that cargo trailer. The system will cause more issues than it will solve when used with your empty 2400 lb cargo trailer because it can cause to firm a ride for your suspension causing bounce and sway issues.

My recommendation is to get the Strait-Line Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control - Trunnion Bar - 10,000 lbs GTW, 600 lbs TW # RP66082 which is rated for total tongue weights between 200 and 600 lbs which will work well for your empty or loaded trailer and has the best sway control of any system in my opinion. You will also want # A-90 for a 2 inch ball or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch ball.

If you have a system that will allow you to change out the bars, I've linked the page to those options for you. If you want to forgo the weight distribution system for now, you can use the friction sway control bar # 83660 with ball mount adapter # RP26003.

To determine the tongue weight you can use a scale like # e99044.