Choosing The Correct Weight Distribution Hitch For a 6,800LB Trailer

Question:

How do you decide which weight rating hitch to purchase. The Reese RP66083 I was looking says its rated for 8,000 GWR and 800# tongue weight. Ive always read that tongue weight should be 10-15 of the loaded trailer weight. My loaded trailer weighs in at 6800# and my calculated tongue weight is 1,040# or 15.3.

asked by: David C

Expert Reply:

With having a trailer that weights 6,800lbs you will likely be looking at the Strait-Line Weight Distribution System # RP66084. This hitch is rated for a tongue weight of 600-1,200lbs and a trailer weight up to 12,000lbs. With using the 10-15% rule this would put your tongue weight of 680lbs-1,020lbs. Do remember you may be also able to shift some of your trailer weight around to raise/lower the amount of tongue weight as well.

I do recommend using a Tongue Weight Scale # e99044 to get the most accurate tongue weight for your trailer. This will ensure you do not exceed the capacity of the hitch.

expert reply by: Bud M