Recommended 18" Hitch Extension for 2018 Toyota Tundra and 530 Pound Tongue Weight Travel Trailer

Question:

Hello I have a 2018 Toyota Tundra and a travel trailer that weighs loaded about 5000 lbs. The tongue weight is 530 lbs, my truck is rated for 1200 on the tongue. My problem is my ATV doesn’t fit in the bed unless the tailgait is down. With where the trailer jack is, unfortunately this doesn’t work. It looks like I would need an 18 inch extension possibly a 16 inch but that’s pushing it. My question is, does this sound safe, and what would I need? Thanks.

asked by: Patrick H

Expert Reply:

For your 2018 Toyota Tundra this is safe as long as you are not exceeding the maximum tongue weight on your hitch or the extender. There are several available 18" extenders. Only two of these will meet your required 530 lbs tongue weight, and that is only with the addition of weight distribution.

I recommend the # ST18 Brophy Hitch Extender with Step. This has a maximum tongue weight of 350 lbs but you can increase this to 700 lbs with weight distribution. This meets your 530 lbs tongue weight requirement and with an 18" extension. Keep in mind, weight from the ATV behind the rear axle of your Tundra must also be included in the tongue weight calculation. If that has not been included in your 530 lbs you may exceed the 700 lbs the Brophy is capable of with weight distribution.

I also recommend the # e99007 etrailer Anti-Rattle Hitch Stabilizer for 2" Hitches. This anti-rattle clamp will help get rid of any extra movement from the extender.

For weight distribution, I recommend the # C17499 Curt TruTrack Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control. This weight distribution system is for a tongue weight of 500-800 lbs and uses clamp-on brackets so no drilling is required for installation.

I have attached several review videos for your reference.