Recommended Weight Distribution Hitch for Coachman 281RLDS Travel Trailer That Allows Backing Up

Question:

I have a 2014 Ram 1500 Bighorn 2wd Hemi with factory 12k tow package. Ive been hauling a Coachmen 248td with no problems but just bought a Coachmen 281rlds that is 2k heavier than the 248. What do you suggest for a WD hitch w/o sway control as I understand sway causes issues backing.

asked by: Hugh

Expert Reply:

The sway control that has issues with backing up is only on the systems that have the friction sway bar like # 17200. I recommend using a system that has integrated sway control instead of the friction bar to give you the ability to backup with it installed as well as giving you the sway control as you travel down the road. I looked up your trailer and the dry tongue weight is 658 lbs. When you account for the loaded tongue weight as well as any cargo behind the rear axle of your truck, that will give you your total tongue weight needed for your weight distribution system.

My recommendation for you is the Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 12K GTW, 1.2K TW # RP66560 which is rated for total tongue weights between 600 and 1200 lbs which will put you in the middle of the range. This system does allow backing up without disconnecting and I recommend using hitch ball # 19286 with this system.

If you really don't want sway control at all, then I recommend the Reese Weight Distribution System w Shank - Trunnion Bar - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW # RP66542 which has the same ratings and will use the same hitch ball but doesn't have any sway control. But for the price difference I highly recommend the Steadi-Flex.

expert reply by: Jason S