Correct Weight Distribution Hitch for 5,000 lb Trailer

Question:

I have a 2016 4Runner Trail Premium, rated to tow 5000lb GVWR/500lb TW. I also have a 2021 Winnebago 2106DS, with a dry weight of 3,980 7,000 GVWR and 360lb dry hitch weight. Obviously, I will not be loading the trailer to the maximum capacity and will keep it under 5klbs. Im looking at this hitch and the EQ37061ET. My concern is two-fold I want to make sure I get the proper WD for the vehicle and trailer. Additionally, I want to make sure the hitch is rated for the GVWR of the trailer in case an accident occurred and insurance got involved I dont want them to say that the hitch wasnt rated for the correct GVWR. If thats the case and I got something like the EQ37100ET, it states that the TW is rated for 600-1,000 lbs. Does that mean it will not work correctly for a 500 lb TW? Whats my best option here? Thank you.

asked by: Mike

Expert Reply:

We can help you out with the correctly rated weight distribution hitch. The important part here is that you said your 2016 4Runner is rated for a maximum of 5,000 lbs towing and 500 lbs tongue weight. The correct weight distribution hitch will be based off of your total tongue weight (TTW), which is the tongue weight of your loaded Winnebago plus the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your 4Runner.

Tongue weight is typically between 10 percent and 15 percent of your loaded trailer weight, and you can simply add on the weight of the cargo behind the rear axle of your tow vehicle and you'll have your TTW. The ideal system would be one in which your TTW falls somewhere in the middle of the weight distribution system's tongue weight capacity.

So based on your capacity of 5,000 lbs you were right on the head with the best system, which is the Reese Strait-Line Weight Distribution System with Sway Control # RP66083.

This has a TTW capacity of between 400 lbs and 800 lbs so it is perfect for your needs. The higher-rated Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System # EQ37100ET will work as well, but will give you a very stiff ride due to it being overrated for your system, which is why I recommend the Strait-Line.

With the Strait-Line the only other thing you need is the hitch ball, depending on the size of your trailer's coupler. You'll need either 2" Hitch Ball # A-90 or 2-5/16" Hitch Ball # 19286.

I have added a link to a video review for you to check out as well of the Strait-Line Weight Distribution System with Sway Control # RP66083.