Weight Distribution System Recommendation for 1997 Dodge 3500 Towing an Arctic Fox 25R with ATVs  

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Expert Reply:

Thank you for all of the information you provided. The best way to select a weight distribution system is to determine the tongue weight of your trailer when it is loaded and ready to tow and add the weight of any cargo loaded behind the rear axle in your truck bed. Once you determine the total tongue weight of your towing setup, you will want to choose a weight distribution system that can handle your total tongue weight.

For example, if you plan on loading your trailer to the maximum weight rating and hauling 2 ATVs in your truck with one behind the rear axle, then your total tongue weight could be as much as 1,600 lbs. If your tongue weight exceeds 1,500 lbs, then the best system for you is a heavy-duty system like the Reese Strait-Line Weight Distribution System, # RP66075. This system can support up to 1,700 lbs of tongue weight and comes with sway control, but it also requires that your truck have a Class V 2-1/2 inch trailer hitch.

If you do not have a Class V hitch, you can install the Curt Class V Trailer Hitch, # C15300, as long as your truck has a standard step bumper and not a roll pan bumper. At this time we do not have a Class V hitch for models with a roll pan or deep drop bumper.

If your total tongue weight will remain under 1,500 lbs, then I recommend the Reese Strait-Line System, # RP66130. This system has a maximum tongue weight capacity of 1,500 lbs, includes the dual cam sway control and fits a standard 2 inch trailer hitch receiver. I have attached the installation instructions for both weight distribution systems that I mentioned for you to check out.

The Strait-Line weight distribution systems do not come with a hitch ball. These systems require a hitch ball with a 1-1/4 inch shank diameter. For a 2 inch hitch ball, I recommend part # A-90, and for a 2-5/16 inch hitch ball, # 19286.

expert reply by: John H

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