Recommended Weight Distribution System With Sway Control for 2007 FJ Cruiser Pulling 3700 Lb TT  

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As a first step, I would examine your factory hitch to ensure it is capable of being used with weight distribution. The hitch should have a sticker that lists both a towing and a weight distribution capacity.

Once you confirm that your factory hitch is compatible with weight distribution, you would then choose a system whose rating is greater than the fully loaded trailer tongue weight plus the weight of anything stowed in the vehicle cargo area behind the rear axle, or total tongue weight (TTW). Before choosing a given system, it is best to definitively determine the TTW, to fully ensure you get a properly rated system. I will link you to an article showing a few methods to determine this.

Another thing to consider. The FJ has a fairly short wheelbase, which can make it more susceptible to trailer sway. The friction sway control unit included with the # PS49582 weight distribution system you mentioned is considered an entry level system, that is best used for slight to moderate trailer sway. If a Good, Better, Best spectrum is used, this system would be considered Good. This system would be appropriate if your TTW is under 750 lbs. This system includes the weight distributing shank and the 2-5/16 inch trailer ball.

A Better system that is the next step up in sway control performance would be the Reese SC System, like part # RP66558. This would would be my recommendation if you find your TTW is less than 600 lbs. If your TTW is greater than 600 lbs, go with the # RP66559 for tongue weights up to 1000 lbs. These systems both include the weight distributing shank, but the trailer ball is sold separately. For a 2 inch ball, use part # A-90 or part # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch ball.

There is a pretty good price differential between the two systems. The weight distribution portion of both systems are pretty equal in terms of performance, but the sway control performance of the Steadi-Flex system is dramatically better. You could try a few at-speed test runs on a North-South interstate to see how the camper performs with the cross winds and turbulence caused by oncoming traffic. If the sway seems pretty minimal, the Pro Series system might work just fine. However, if you were planning on traveling through the midewest or some other place where it will be pretty windy, you might want to at least consider the upgrade provided by the Reese Steadi-Flex.

expert reply by: Mike L

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