Weight Distribution System Recommendation for a Dump Trailer Towed by a GMC Sierra 2500HD
Question:
I have a cam superline dump trailer with a gvw of 11960 and a gmc sierra 2500hd which can tow 9900 pounds. My hitch label states 7500 pounds without weight distributing hitch and 13000 pounds with. So I am in the market for a weight distributing hitch that will be adjustable for a wide variety of tounge weights ranging from unloaded to fully loaded and anything in between. Also a problem that I am seeing is the c-channel of my trailer frame is open to the outside which seems different/opposite construction of the travel trailers that your installs show. Can the brackets be mounted to the inside of the frame in my situation or is the angle between the bars set in stone? Any ideas for me?
asked by: Mike K
Expert Reply:
For your situation, I recommend looking at the Reese Steadi-Flex weight distribution systems. As you mentioned, you will want a weight distribution system with a large tongue weight range. The Reese Steadi-Flex System, # RP66560, has a maximum tongue weight capacity of 1,200 lbs and a minimum tongue weight requirement of 600 lbs. This would be an ideal system for a dump trailer with fluctuating loads. This system also has integrated friction sway control. If your tongue weight dips below 400, you could simply disconnect the spring bars. Your truck should be able to handle that weight with no problem.
One thing that you will want to keep in mind is that the tongue weight rating of a weight distribution system should be able to handle the total tongue weight of your towing setup. This includes the weight of the trailer when it is loaded and ready to tow plus the weight of any cargo loaded behind the rear axle of the truck.
One feature of the Steadi-Flex systems that will help you is the frame mounting brackets. The frame brackets will work with your C-channel style frame rails without any problems because they wrap around the frame rather than attaching in the channel.
I have attached links to the installation instructions for this system for you to check out. These systems do not come with a hitch ball. If you need a 2 inch ball, then you can use part # A-90. If you need a 2-5/16 inch ball, then you can use part # 19286. I have also attached links to a weight distribution FAQ article and a help article on how to determine your trailer tongue weight.
Products Referenced in This Question
2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-3/4" Long Shank - Chrome - 12,000 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2-5/16 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-3/4 Inch Shank Length
- 1-1/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 12000 lbs GTW
- Class IV
- Class V
- Draw-Tite
more information >
2" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-5/8 Inch Shank Length
- 1-1/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 10000 lbs GTW
- Class IV
- Class V
- CURT
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 12K GTW, 1.2K TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 1000 lbs
- 1100 lbs
- 700 lbs
- 800 lbs
- 900 lbs
- Reese
more information >
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