Is Weight Distribution Needed on a 2013 Ram 1500 with Automatic Air-Leveling Suspension

Question:

I have a 2013 ram 1500 with automatic air suspension system. Is a weight distribution bars required when towing a 7200 lb trailer with a tounge weight of 875 lbs ? The truck automatically levels itself when trailer is dropped on ball.

asked by: Allan D

Expert Reply:

Weight distribution works to transfer trailer tongue weight more evenly to all axles of the tow vehicle and trailer. This is how it levels the rig. With automatic air leveling suspension, it is just leveling out the back of the truck and not transferring the tongue weight across the axles. So it is still possible to have steering and braking problems with the air leveling system.

You can use weight distribution with this type of system but ideally, if possible, you would turn it off. Otherwise you will connect the trailer, let it auto-level, then connect the spring bars on the weight distribution system.

If you decide to go with weight distribution, you will need to go by the total tongue weight. This is the tongue weight of the trailer when loaded and ready to tow plus the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. So if we go by 875 pounds as the total tongue weight I recommend a system that is rated for 600 to 1,200 pounds tongue weight.

Strait-Line Weight Distribution System, # RP66084, that you referenced fits the bill. I have included links to the installation instructions for you. With this system you will need to add a ball. Use # A-90 for a 2 inch or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch. I have included a link to our help article on weight distribution for you.

expert reply by: Michael H