Weight Distribution System for Chaparral Horse Trailer Towed By 2004 GMC Envoy
Question:
I have a 2004 Chaparral 2 horse trailer steel but I dont know its empty weight. I did some calculations at 200lbs. and 230lbs. per foot 10foot length it may weigh less per foot but I wanted to err on the high side.Adding 2100lbs.for the horses and 300lbs for supplies. I come come up with a tounge weight under 400lbs. This is figuring the tounge weight to be 15 of the total loaded weight. I hope I did it right. I want a hitch with sway bar, which one would you recommend concidering I did the calculations correctly,the 550 or 600lb? Ill towing with a 2004 GMC Envoy XL 4.2 engine
asked by: Thomas B
Expert Reply:
The first step in choosing a weight distribution system is to definitively identify the fully-loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of the trailer. There are a few methods of doing this, as you can see by clicking on the link I provided.
Knowing the exact tongue weight is a crucial step in choosing the correct system for your application. If you choose a system that does not have a high enough capacity, the system will not be effective and could be damaged. Choosing a system whose capacity is way too high for your tongue weight will lead to a stiff ride and poor handling.
If you find that the tongue weight is under 550 lbs, the Pro Series # PS49901 would be a good choice. If your TW is above 550 but less than 750 lbs, the Pro Series # PS49582 would work well.
I have also linked you to an FAQ article that contains additional information about Weight Distribution systems.
