Weight Distribution System with Sway Control for 2012 Chevy 1500 Towing Wildwood 27RKSS

Question:

I have a 2012 Chevy 1500 long bed ext. cab with a 5.3 w/tow package.Max trailer weight 9,300. I am pulling a Wildwood 27RKSS, w/720 tongue weight, dry ship weight is 6355, axle wt. 5635, total lenght of trailer is 333. I would like to know the best weight distribution system for my vehicle.

asked by: Gary M

Expert Reply:

The first step in choosing a weight distribution system is to determine the fully loaded and ready-to-tow tongue weight (TW) of the trailer. This tongue weight figure should include the weight of anything stowed in the bed of your truck behind the rear axle. I have linked you to an FAQ article that shows a few easy methods of determining your tongue weight. Ideally you would want your fully loaded TW to fall pretty close to the mid-point of the effective range of the system you choose.

For instance, the Reese # RP66073 system you were looking at has an effective range of 400-800 lbs of TW. The 720 lb tongue weight figure you mention is pretty close to the maximum capacity of the system, and you might find yourself exceeding that capacity should you add extra gear to your trailer. If you like the Strait-Line system, I would recommend going with a higher-rated system like the # RP66084, which has an effective range of 600-1200 lbs of TW. The # RP66084 includes the weight distributing shank, but the trailer ball with a 1-1/4 inch diameter shank is sold separately. For a 2-5/16 inch ball, use part # 19286.

I have linked you to some install videos that you might find helpful. Each video shows a representative install of both types of systems.

expert reply by: Mike L