Hitch and Weight Distribution Recommendation for 1996 GMC 4X4 Pickup  

Question:

Expert Reply:

The Curt Class V Receiver Hitch, part # C15325 would be a great choice for your truck. The hitch is rated at 16,000 lbs, 17,000 lbs when using a weight distribution system. You will need to ensure that the towing capacity of the vehicle exceeds the fully-loaded weight of the trailer.

In order for a weight distribution system to work at peak performance, it needs to be matched as closely as possible to the tongue weight of the trailer as it is typically towed. When you quote 10,000 pounds for the car hauler, I am assuming you are speaking of the trailer capacity, not the actual loaded weight of the trailer.

For the sake of your question, I will assume you are looking for a system that will work with trailer tongue weights ranging from 600 to 1200 lbs. As tongue weight is typically figured at 10 percent of the trailer weight, this would work for trailers weighing up to 12,000 lbs. When calculating your trailer tongue weight, be sure to included the weight of anything stored in the truck bed behind the rear axle.

For a trailer in this weight range, we offer the Strait-Line Weight Distribution Hitch System, part # RP66084. This system combines the High Performance Trunnion Bar system with the Dual Cam Sway Control, which will stop trailer sway from occurring before it can start. If you would prefer the weight distribution system only, we offer the same system minus the Sway Control, part # RP66542. The weight distributing shank is included, but the appropriately sized trailer ball with 1-1/4 inch diameter shank would be needed. For a 2 inch ball, you will need # A-90 or for a 2-5/16 inch ball, use part # 19286.

For installation details, click on the provided links.

expert reply by: Mike L

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