Determining the Correct Weight Distribution Hitch System for Light Trailer and Loaded Truck Bed

Question

Question:

I have a 2017 Jayco Jay Feather 16XRB. It lists as a 280 pound tongue weight. At times, I may also have dirt bikes in my truck bed adding approximately 500 pounds to the equation. So I was thinking that this FA94-00-1000 was a good fit for a WDH with sway control. Would you concur?

asked by: Todd

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Expert Reply:

Based on your explanation, I think the Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control # FA94-00-1000 will be large a system for your application giving you too stiff a ride. The light tongue weight of your trailer will obviously be slightly increased when you load the trailer, but the dirt bikes in the truck bed will only add a portion of that 500 lbs to your total tongue weight as only cargo weight behind the rear axle gets added to the total tongue weight for your weight distribution system. So this is too large for that application and way too large if you weren't bringing your dirt bikes for some reason.

Instead, I recommend using the similar # FA94-00-0800 which is rated for total tongue weights between 400 and 800 lbs. This will allow you to add some weight to the back of your truck bed if you aren't carrying the bikes and get you within the loaded range and will provide the support you need when bringing the dirt bikes. If you have a 2 inch ball coupler then use # A-90 and if you have a 2-5/16 inch ball coupler then use # 63840. You will also need thin walled socket # ALL643216 for installation.

I've attached an article to help with total tongue weight as that is what is used for determining the correct weight distribution system for your truck and trailer.

expert reply by: Jason S

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Answer 1

For 411 lb of tongue weight the 6k rated Fastway e2 systems are the way to go. They have a tongue weight range of 250-600 lbs which your 411 lb tongue weight falls right in the middle of and that's exactly what you want. The trunnion systems…

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Answer 2

When a weight distribution system is installed but the trailer is not yet loaded to the actual tongue weight (TW) for which that system is rated, it is not unusual to find a jumpy or choppy ride quality. These systems are tongue-weight-sensitive and…

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Answer 3

The Fastway weight distribution system you were referencing, part #FA94-00-0800, requires a minimum 400-lbs tongue weight, and would not work for you but I do have a solution. I recommend the Fastway e2 Weight Distribution System, part #FA92-00-0450.…

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Answer 4

Choosing the right weight distribution system will depend on the total tongue weight of your setup. The total tongue weight will include both the loaded tongue weight of your camper plus any added cargo behind the rear axle of your tow vehicle. You…

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Answer 5

The one important thing to consider when choosing a weight distribution system is actually the tongue weight of your loaded trailer. Typically, your tongue weight will fall between 10-15% of the total loaded weight of your trailer- a good tool to…

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Answer 6

For your 2012 Nissan Frontier and trailer hitch #87539 you will need a weight distribution system that is rated high enough for the total tongue weight of the trailer. This is calculated by taking the tongue weight of the trailer, when loaded and…

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Answer 7

We have not had any issues with weight distribution systems bending trailer frames. If your trailer happens to have an aluminum frame that could be an issue though. You would need to check with the trailer manufacturer if the frame is aluminum to see…

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Answer 8

For your 2018 Nissan Pathfinder I recommend going with the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" #C13309 you mentioned as it has a hidden crosstube meaning the only visible part of the hitch is the actual receiver where the…

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Answer 9

The tongue weight range of the Fastway e2 weight distribution system #FA94-00-0600 that you referenced is 400 to 600 lbs. 430 lbs of tongue weight does fall into this range but you also have to consider what the trailer tongue weight will be when the…

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Answer 10

The Pro Series Weight Distribution System #49570 is likely too big a system for your trailer. If you want this style system, a better option for you is the similar system rated for 550 to 750 lbs total tongue weight #PS49582. Total tongue weight is…

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Answer 11

When it comes to weight distribution, tongue weight is the most important factor. In this case, it doesn't sound like the spring bars need to be swapped out. Although I don't know the exact model of your camper, the tongue weight is going to…

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Answer 12

The width of the Optronics Flexible LED Light Strip #UCL90CB is about 3/8". I have attached a review video where we take this measurement for you to check out. To help remove the 3M adhesive I recommend using some heat like a hair dryer or…

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