Weight Distribution System Recommendation for a Forest River Grey Wolf 22BH 7547 Pounds

Question:

Having a hard time deciding if I should buy the 1200 or 800 lb bar version of this hitch. Vehicle is 2004 Dodge 2500 4x4 gas pickup. Trailer is Forest River Grey Wolf 22BH with manufacturers dry, hitch, and GVWR wts of 4,181 and 547, and 7,547 lbs. Ive not had our trailer on a scale but estimate loaded tongue and total weights are around 825 and 5,500 lbs after A/C, propane, batteries, trailer jack, etc. I suspect 800 lb version would work but prefer the design of the 1200 lb versions trailer brackets and like the idea of being able to load heavy without worrying about possibly overloading the hitch. On the other hand I dont want to beat my trailer up by over hitching either. If I buy the 1200 lb version and find that the ride is very harsh could I buy and use the 800 lb bars with the same hitch head and trailer brackets? Too bad they dont make a 1,000 lb version of this hitch. Sorry for the long winded question. Thanks for your help!

asked by: Mark R

Helpful Expert Reply:

The weight distribution system that I would recommend for your Forest River Grey Wolf 22BH is the Steadi-Flex System with 1,200 lb TW, # RP66560. This system has a tongue weight range between 600 lbs and 1,200 lbs. If you feel that the tongue weight of your trailer when loaded and ready to tow will exceed 800 lbs, moving to the next size system is best. You can move down to the 800 lb Spring Bars, # RP58357, if you feel that the 1,200 lb bars are too heavy for your setup.

When choosing a weight distribution system, the overall tongue weight of your towing setup is the most important factor. The overall tongue weight includes the tongue weight of your trailer when it is loaded and ready to tow plus the weight of any cargo loaded in your truck bed behind the rear axle. It is always best to choose a weight distribution system that has a tongue weight range that encompasses the overall tongue weight of your towing setup.

If you are new to weight distribution, I have attached an FAQ article and a video on weight distribution information for you to check out.

Keep in mind, Reese systems do not include a hitch ball. If you need a 2 inch hitch ball, you can use part # A-90. If you need a 2-5/16 inch hitch ball, you can go with part # 19286.

expert reply by: John H