Carrying A Golf Cart In My Truck Bed With The Tailgate Down With A Weight Distribution Hitch

Question:

We have a Chevy 2500hd with a receiver that’s towing capacity of 13,000 pounds and a tongue capacity of 1,500 pounds. We are pulling forest river flagstaff shamrock 23ikss travel trailer that has a dry weight of 5,418 pounds, payload capacity of 1,170 pounds and a hitch weight of 588 pounds. We use a weight distribution system for hauling this trailer. Will the HR26 hitch extension work with the tailgate down so I can put our golf cart in the back of the truck driving down the road?

asked by: Steve R

Expert Reply:

I do have a solution for you. My recommendation is to use the Curt Hitch Receiver Reducer Sleeve - 2-1/2" to 2" # C45405, in combination with the Equal-i-zer Weight Dist Shank - 18" Long - 8" Rise, 4" Drop - 600 to 1,400 lbs TW, part # EQ90-02-4600. The maximum tongue weight of this weight distribution shank is 1,400 lbs. Weight distribution shanks are usually 12". This Equal-i-zer has a shank length of 18". Once you add the golf cart to your truck bed, the weight that is behind the rear axle needs to be added to the 588 lbs of tongue weight. You will be able carry this golf cart without any issues with the addition of this weight distribution hitch.

Anytime you add a hitch extender you reduce the tongue weight of the trailer hitch by 50%. If your maximum tongue weight, with the weight distribution, is 1,500 lbs, that new weight will be 750 lbs. You will have to use a different hitch extender, the Brophy you attached to your question, part # HR26, has a maximum tongue weight of 500 lbs. You are always limited to the lowest weight capacity in your system.

I have included product description links and video review links below.

expert reply by: Mark Smith