Weight Distribution/Sway Control Hitch for 2005 Tacoma Pre-Runner and 2012 Rockwood Minilite 1901

Question

Question:

I have a 2005 Toyota Tacoma Prerunner V-6, Hitch is 5000 and 500. The trailer I have is a 2012 Rockwood Minilite 1901.Dry unit weight 2822. Hitch weight 345. Dry axle weight 2477. cargo capacity 985. I bought this trailer last year and noticed when driving back on interstate the trailer swaying behind tv. Was especially bad when semis passed. I found slowing down to 55 to 60 helped some, but this did not feel safe. Was wondering which w/d system w/ sway you might recommend. I was thinking dual cam, but some people say they don,t work well on light trailers, so would equalizer be a better alternative.

asked by: Bruce T

0

Expert Reply:

The key to selecting a weight distribution/sway control system for your 2005 Toyota Tacoma Pre-Runner and Rockwood Minilite trailer is the actual fully-loaded, road-ready trailer tongue weight. To select an appropriate system it is critical to measure your actual as-towed tongue weight, with all water, propane, gear and supplies just as you will have them when you are on the road.

Your Minilite 1901 has a total fluid capacity (fresh, grey and black water combined) of 96-gallons; this and other loaded items can have a big impact on your actual tongue weight measurement. Also, anything in the back of your truck placed behind the rear axle will add to your tongue weight load and the weight of such items must be added to your tongue weight measurement.

There are several ways to do this, the simplest of which is to use a tongue weight scale such as the # e99044, but it is also possible to take this important measure with a standard bathroom scale. The linked article covers the different processes for taking this measurement. Once you know your actual as-towed tongue weight you can then select a weight distribution/sway control system that is matched appropriately.

You also need to check your hitch to ensure it is rated for use with a weight distribution system. The safety/warning sticker on your hitch will indicate if it is suitable.

The type of system you choose, for example the Reese dual-cam trunnion system you referenced, part # RP66082 as compared to the Equalizer, is less important to proper performance than the correct matching of a system based on your tongue weight. A weight distribution system that is rated too highly for the actual trailer tongue weight will result in stiff and erratic handling, while a system rated too low will not provide the correction you need to combat sway from passing trucks and crosswinds.

A second linked article covers a lot of the basics of weight distribution systems and this may be a helpful starting point for you. Once you have measured your loaded tongue weight you can use the link provided to select a system by clicking on the appropriate tongue weight at the top of the page.

For example, if you measure a loaded tongue weight of 600-lbs you can choose from trunnion-style systems in either dual-cam or 2-point friction-types. Part # RP66083 is a dual-cam system from Reese that includes the shank and uses lift brackets that measure 5-1/2-inches wide and that mount about 30-inches rear of the hitch ball. You will need to order a hitch ball, either # 19286 for the 2-5/16-inch size or part # A-90 for the 2-inch.