How to Pick Out a Weight Distribution System for a 2008 Toyota Tundra Towing a Travel Trailer

Question:

I have a 2008 Toyota Tundra, Double Cab, 4X4, standard bed, 5.7L, with towing package, 4.30 axle. The trucks specs are as follows: GVWR = 7,100, GCWR = 16,000, Max Payload = 1,580, curb weight = 5,520, GAWR = 8,150, RGAWR = 4,150, RGAW = 2,305, FGAWR = 4,000, FGAW = 3,215. Im interested in a Starcraft 25BHS travel trailer with the following specs: Dry Weight = 5,280, Max Cargo Capacity = 2,200, GVWR = 7,500. My first question is whether the truck can safely tow the trailer. And secondly, should I use a weight distributing hitch with stablizer?

asked by: David H

Expert Reply:

Based on the figures you gave me you would be able to tow the Starcraft 25BHS travel trailer but you would not be able to take full advantage of its max cargo capacity. You would only be able to carry 1,820 lbs of cargo before you would be at the maximum towing capacity.

Weight distribution systems are recommended anytime the total weight of the trailer is over half the total weight of the tow vehicle. So in your case a weight distribution system would be an excellent choice. The best way to pick out a weight distribution system is to base it off of the loaded tongue weight of the setup when ready to tow. You should note that you should also consider the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle as tongue weight. I attached an FAQ article on determining tongue weight for you to check out also.

Once you determine your loaded tongue weight we can pick out a weight distribution system. The Strait-Line Weight Distribution System # RP66130 that you referenced is an excellent system, but since I do not know the loaded tongue weight of your setup its hard to say for certain if it would be the ideal system for you. This system has a tongue weight range of 800-1,500 lbs. This system also has the only sway control system on the market that proactively works to prevent sway before it starts, I would recommend a system with the Strait Line sway control system for your setup.

expert reply by: Jameson C