How to Pick Out a Weight Distribution System for a 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee Towing Travel Trailer

Question:

Hi - Im looking for a load balancing/sway control system for our Jeep Grand Cherokee. Its the 3.0 CRD version with a tow rating of 7200 LBS. We will be towing a KZ MXT 303 travel trailer. Its listed at 5700 dry weight and is 30foot in length. The weights and length are OK, but the vehicle manufacturer recommends load balance and sway control, and I think the Reese Strait-Line Trunnion Bar will work for us. I cant seem to see what all is included with this system - I have nothing at present besides the 2inch receiver and trailer brakes. Here are my questions: Does this kit include the hitch and ball? Or do I need to add that? What are the differences between trunnion bar and round bar? Is one preferred for specific types of towing over another? Are there any other hitch types youd recommend for our setup? We do realize that the trailer, with a full load, will be above our rated tow capacity, but we dont plan on loading it above cap. we are also planning on upgrading our tow vehicle, but not quite yet so any information you can provide would be most helpful. Thanks!

asked by: Craig F

Expert Reply:

To start with your questions, the Strait-Line Weight Distribution # RP66073 does not come with the shank or ball. For a ball you could use the part # A-90 if you need a 2 inch ball or part # 19286 if you need a 2-5/16 inch ball. For a shank you could use Reese Weight Distribution Shank # RP54970.

The differences between trunnion and round bars is going to be ground clearance. Trunnion bars offer better ground clearance and used to have higher capacities than round, but that has changed in recent years.

Your setup would benefit the most from a properly rated weight distribution system. To pick out a weight distribution system the most important factor to consider is the loaded tongue weight of the setup when it is ready to tow. This includes the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your tow vehicle. I attached an FAQ article on determining tongue weight for you to check out.

I am confused on whether or not you plan on towing beyond the capacities of your tow vehicle. You should never exceed the towing capacities. I would recommend you keep everything under your capacities until you upgrade your towing vehicle.

It sounds like you need trailer wiring and a brake controller to complete your towing setup since you said you only have a hitch and trailer brakes.

For 4-way wiring you would want Curt Wiring Harnes # C56009. This will need to be converted to a 7-way to operate the trailer brakes. For that you will need a 4-way to 7-way Adapter and Install Kit # ETBC7. Instructions and install video are attached.

For a brake controller I would recommend the Prodigy P2 Brake Controller # 90885. This is our best selling brake controller because of how easy it is to setup and use and because of how well it works.