Weight Distribution for a 2005 GMC Yukon XL 6.0L Towing a 7,900 Pound Trailer

Question:

Both the Vehicle and Camper are new to me. The camper needs to be purchased and picked up approximately 180 away from the campground it is going to be parked at. I will not be traveling with this camper except for initial purchase. Do you recommend I purchase a weight distribution system with sway bar control? The Camper weight is approximately 6,000 pounds with minimal cargo inside. GVWR of Camper: 7,900 GAWR all Axles of Camper: 4300

asked by: Troy C

Helpful Expert Reply:

The safe bet is to go by the gross trailer weight at 7,900 pounds. Ideally you would use weight distribution if the trailer is at least 50 percent of the gross vehicle weight and/or if when connected, the tongue weight causes the vehicle to squat.

Ordinarily I would say that weight distribution is a good idea given the numbers. But if you are only going to tow it one time then weight distribution is a pretty big investment to use just the one time. But given the distance you are traveling it would still be a good idea. You never can be too safe.

A system such as Pro Series # PS49582 is not going to break the bank and it comes with friction sway control. It is rated for 550 to 750 pounds tongue weight. Tongue weight in this case is calculated by taking the tongue weight of the trailer when loaded and ready to tow (typically 10 to 15 percent of the gross trailer weight) and adding to that the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle.

This system comes with a 2-5/16 inch ball but if you need a 2 inch use # A-90.

I have included some links on determining tongue weight and weight distribution for you.

expert reply by: Michael H