Is a Weight Distribution Hitch Necessary With a Small Travel Trailer?

Question:

So Im curious if a distribution hitch would give me any benefits or if it would be a waste of money? I have a 2020 ram rebel with a curb weight of 7,100 lbs. and my trailer is a 2017 jayco 145rb baja edition with a unloaded tongue weight of I believe around 250 lbs. and a fully loaded trailer weight cap of I think 2,995. So its definitely less than half the tow vehicle weight. But I have yet to weigh the tongue fully loaded and have two batteries and a 30 lbs. propane tank plus 26 gallons of water including the water heater and fresh tank capacity at the front of the box to consider as well. I have already purchased a Husky model 32215 hitch with a tongue rating of 400-600 lbs. and am assuming I would fall into that range loaded and curious if I should send it back or not. Any feed back would be greatly appreciated Im new to this and seem to be in a gray area weight wise from my research so far.

asked by: Bret J

Expert Reply:

The weight and sway distribution hitch will not only act as a leveling device which is not a huge concern with the 2020 Ram Rebel pulling the 2017 Jayco Jay Flight 145RB, but will also reduce the sway the trailer will experience. Due to the light weight and large surface area of your trailer this is extremely important to have sway control. Sway occurs mostly on highways due to wind and large trucks creating turbulence.

I recommend the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System # EQ37060ET for your Jayco. The Equal-i-zer allows for tongue weights of 200-600lbs with a maximum trailer weight of 6,000lbs. With its 4-point sway control it offers more stabilization as opposed to the Husky. This hitch also carries a Limited Lifetime Warranty and is Made In The USA.

You will need a 1-7/8" 12pt Thin Walled Socket # ALL643216 to install the included 2" ball onto the hitch. And I recommend using the Sway Bracket Jackets # EQ95-01-5150 to reduce the noise that is created when turning with these style hitches.

expert reply by: Bud M