2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Correcting Squat From Tongue Weight

Question

Question:

Looking at improving the Towing on my 2020 Chevrolet Silverado Trail Boss. I have a cap on the back of the truck now and I own a 7000 pound capacity car hauling trailer. When I load 2 ATVs on and hook it to my truck its squats in the rear. Im wondering if I should get airbags or a weight distribution hitch? Where I go atving I have to make a lot of tight turns and back up at sharp angles. The total weight of trailer and ATVs is roughly 4,000 pounds, but being that the car trailer axles are set farther back the tongue weight is heavier than a twin axle landscape trailer, which causes the truck to squat more then I would like. What would you recommend to solve this problem.

asked by: Matthew B

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

There are several good options toward suspension enhancement to consider, air springs being one of the best options and in large part for their adjustability. However, to begin with I suggest you first look into a weight distribution system to address your issue, instead of suspension enhancement. A Weight Distribution Hitch helps to shift excessive weight from the rear axle across all, reducing sag caused by the trailer’s tongue weight; and provides more stability when encountering cross winds. A WDH should always be considered when towing anything with significant ball weight. Air bags will hold up the rear while a WDH uses torsion to shift a percentage of the tongue weight to the front axle of the tow vehicle.

For your 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 based on the trailer weight specs you identified, I recommend the Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control, # FA92-00-0800 with 8,000 lbs GTW and 800 lbs tongue weight. This more evenly distributes weight over axles of tow vehicle and trailer for stability and control. Properly installed will create a level ride for both tow vehicle and trailer. Integrated 2-Point Sway Control limits side-to-side movement. Tongue weight is from 400 lbs. - 800 lbs. and GTW is 8,000 lbs.

I think the WD hitch will solve your issue, but, if you need/want something more than a WDH, then I would suggest vehicle suspension enhancement afterwards. I suggest air springs for their adjustability and recommend the Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs # F2609. With these you have a load-leveling capacity of 5,000 lbs. The Ride-Rite springs will not increase your vehicle's weight-carrying capacity but they enhance your suspension and fully adjustable from 5 psi to 100 psi. The springs partner with your existing rear suspension system to help keep your vehicle level.

In almost all applications I prefer air springs over the jounce-style springs because of adjustability. However, if the install and go, no adjustment feature is more suited to you, then Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System # TGMR15MR is the best jounce-style spring choice.

Please checkout the attached videos and let us know how we may help.

expert reply by: Michael R

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