Weight Distribution for a 4,600 Pound Loaded Equipment Trailer and 2010 Toyota Tacoma
Question:
I have a 2010 Tacoma Double Cab V6 with factory installed towing package. The factory specs are 6500 lbs towing capacity and 650 lbs tongue weight. I will be trailering a compact tractor. A Mahindra 25 HP with Backhoe and Front End Loader. Tractor weight 1700 lbs, Fornt End Loader weight 550 lbs, Backhoe weight 750 lbs, maximum 30 lbs for fuel. Total of load = 3030 lbs +or-. I will be using a 16 ft tandem axle trailer rated at 3500 lbs per axle with brakes on one axle or possibly both. GVW 6000 lbs, Trailer weight 1623 lbs, Load capacity 4377 lbs. Weight of trailer and load 4653 lbs +or-. Approx. tongue weight 550-600 lbs. This tractor is the maximum load I will probably be towing and only about once a month or less. However I will also use this trailer for ligjhter loads, lumber, mulch etc. but again only once a month or less. Im considering buying the Pro Series 49902 Tongue weight rating 750 lbs. to be used mainly for hauling the tractor What are your recommendations?
asked by: Joe T
Expert Reply:
When selecting a weight distribution system you will go by the tongue weight of the trailer when loaded and ready to tow plus the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the truck. Trailer tongue weight is typically 10 to 15 percent of the gross trailer weight so for a trailer weighing 4,653 pounds that would be 463 to 698 pounds. If its weighing tongue heavy then that could be as high as 750 pounds easily like you said but you will want to measure to be certain. I have included a link to determining tongue weight for you.
What you need is something with a broad tongue weight capacity range such as 400 to 800 pounds, # RP67509. This kit includes a shank so you will just need to add a properly sized ball such as A-90 for a 2 inch or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch. To add sway control use # 83660.
I have included a link to our FAQ article on weight distribution and sway control and a link to a video showing a typical installation of the friction sway control system for you to view.
Products Referenced in This Question
Reese Friction Sway Control Kit - Economy - by Draw-Tite, Reese and Hidden Hitch
- Accessories and Parts
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- Sway Control Parts
- Reese
more information >
2" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-5/8 Inch Shank Length
- 1-1/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 10000 lbs GTW
- Class IV
- Class V
- CURT
more information >
