Leveling Ride Height of 2012 Ram with Air Bags and Weight Distribution when Towing Toy Hauler

Question:

I have a 2012 ram 1500 n tow a 5000lb unloaded 24ft toy hauler. The problem I have is the rear sag with a curt weight distribution hitch n air bags at 30lbs pressure I still cant get the truck n trailer level. Will this system solve this

asked by: Mike

Expert Reply:

As a first step, I would recommend determining the fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of your trailer. The weight of anything stowed in the bed of your truck behind the rear axle will need to be considered as tongue weight. I will link you to an FAQ article that lists several ways of doing this. Knowing the fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of your trailer is essential, in order to choose the proper system for your trailer. Weight distribution systems are typically rated for a given range of tongue weights, like the 600-1200 lb range for the Reese system you referenced. Ideally, the fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of your trailer will be as close to the middle of that effective range as possible.

When setting up your system for the first time, the correct procedure would be deflate the air bags to the MINIMUM pressure stated by their manufacturer (Firestone, for instance typically lists a 5 or 10 psi minimum). Then, set up weight distribution system according to the manufacturer instructions. Then, you can add air to the air bags to fine tune the system.

If you determine that the tongue weight of your loaded trailer is within the effective range of the system you are using, then I would recommend reviewing the set-up instructions very carefully and reset the system as if you were installing it for the first time. As long as the system is not overloaded and your existing truck suspension is in good repair, you should be able to level your ride height.

The Reese Strait-Line system you mentioned will work similarly to the Curt system you have as far as the weight distribution aspect goes. What makes the system special is the dual cam sway control system included with the Strait-Line system. The Dual Cam system forces the trailer to stay in line behind the tow vehicle, and will work to stop trailer sway before it can begin. If you determine that your current system is overloaded, the Strait-Line system would be an excellent replacement/upgrade.

expert reply by: Mike L