Weight Distribution Systems for Travel Trailers with Nissan Armada

Question:

I'm currently looking at getting a Nissan Armada with a towing capacity of 8500 lbs GTW/850 lbs tongue weight. Im looking at getting a travel trailer which has a base weight of 6500 lbs GVWR up to 13200 lbs but a tongue weight of either 950 lbs or 1250 lbs depending on which of 2 models I pick. Is there a hitch I can use to distribute the weight such as an Equal-i-zer hitch so that this combination is feasible? If not, is there any other way to reduce tongue weight? Thanks.

asked by: Anthony V

Expert Reply:

You are correct that weigh distribution systems can be used to help distribute a trailer's tongue weight across the tow vehicle to let the trailer sit more level and improve braking and handling. Your vehicle might have an increased tongue weight capacity listed by the manufacturer for when a weight distribution system is installed, but a weight distribution system won't inherently increase the tongue weight capacity of your vehicle.

With that being said, the Nissan Armada you are looking at would not be a great option for towing either model of the travel trailer you are interested in due to its 850 lb tongue weight capacity. Your only option is to look for a vehicle that offers more tongue weight capacity or a lighter travel trailer.

If you did have a vehicle with a tongue weight capacity of at least 950 lbs, the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System # EQ37120ET is a great option to help the 950 lb tongue weight travel trailer sit level and prevent trailer sway.

If you went with 1,250 lb tongue weight travel trailer, you would need a higher-rated WD system. I recommend the Curt MV Weight Distribution System # C17057. This WD system is rated up to 14,000 lbs gross trailer weight and 1,400 lbs tongue weight capacity. Note that this doesn't come with a hitch ball, which would have to be purchased separately.

expert reply by: John R