Recommended Suspension Enhancement and Weight Distribution Hitch for 2011 Chevy Express 2500

Question:

I have a 2011 Chevy Express 9-passenger conversion van. Its based on a 2500 cargo upfitter platform. GVWR is 8600 and, with the whole family and a full tank it weighs in at around 7700. We want to tow a travel trailer at or less than 7500 not yet ed/purchased. At combined weight of 15200 were approaching GCWR 16000, and will need to keep tongue weight below 900 to meet GVWR. I was looking at air bag and helper leaf spring options when I came across the RAS2611-V. This looks like a good option, since its well reviewed, and it seems that it would help with the base load which is the same as a moderately loaded cargo van as well as the towing load. Is this the best option for my situation? Also, Im looking for a weight distribution hitch for this application. We have a Reese Steadi-Flex 4k #66557 that works well for our lighter trailer. Do you have any recommendations, or will this have to wait until we the trailer? Thanks! Matt

asked by: Matt M

Expert Reply:

Since your van is based on the 2011 Chevy Express 2500 Cargo Van the RoadActive Suspension Custom Leaf Spring Enhancement Kit # RAS2611-V would be the correct part and a great option for additional support. This converts your factory leaf springs into a mechanically active system. It will eliminate axle wrap, wheel hop, and bottoming out.

The RAS system also helps to reduce sway and will improve your ride level with your family loaded up and while towing. The springs adjust based on the vehicle load and can also be adjusted during installation. These have a weight capacity of 2,000 lbs and feature a bolt-on installation. Keep in mind, this will not increase your weight-carrying capacity.

For a weight distribution hitch it would be best to know the weight of your trailer first. Specifically the loaded tongue weight. Your current Reese 66557 has a tongue weight range of 250-400 lbs so I'm sure you will need to upgrade. If you find that your new trailer has a tongue weight that is 400-600 lbs you can upgrade the springs bars using the # RP58501 which will turn it into the # RP66558.

If your tongue weight exceeds the 600 lb tongue weight allowed by this system you will, unfortunately, have to get an entirely different WDH. If you like the Reese Steadi-Flex then I would recommend the # RP66559. This has a tongue weight range of 500-1,000 lbs so based on the trailer you plan to tow it will more than likely have you covered. If the tongue weight is even higher, the # RP66084 would have you covered. One way or another, I would wait just in case you end up with a lighter trailer that will allow for the spring bar swap.