Recommendation for Brake Controller, Trailer Wiring, and Weight Distribution System for 1995 Nissan

Question:

I am looking into buying a TrailManor camper. I already own a 1995 Nissan pickup V6 which is in pretty good shape. I put a Reese 5000 lb frame mount hitch on with a four pole flat wire for the lights years ago. Im pretty sure the TrailManor campers have electric brakes and they recommend some sort of anti sway system. The trailer should weigh less than 3000 lbs and my vehicle is rated at 3500 lbs. What hardware do you suggest I get for brakes, wiring and weight distribution. If I find a used one I might need to leave town in a hurry and go pick it up so I want to get ready. Thanks

asked by: Gary B

Expert Reply:

The Tekonsha Prodigy P2, # 90885, is one of our most popular brake controllers. The installation of Universal Kit, # ETBC7, will convert the four pole flat that you currently have to the seven way that you will need to operate this controller.

As for a weight distribution system, I am going to assume that you will be towing a trailer that is approximately 3,000 pounds when fully loaded. The tongue weight of a trailer is typically 10 - 15 percent of the trailer's fully loaded weight. With this in mind, my recommendation would be for the Pro Series Distribution System with Sway Control, # PS49901, which has a 10,000 pound gross tow weight (GTW) rating and a tongue weight (TW) rating of 550 pounds.

Just a reminder, you will want to follow the weight limitations of the component with the lowest weight rating. This would include the vehicle, the hitch, and the weight distribution system. Also double check that the hitch you plan to use is compatible with a weight distribution system. The sticker on the hitch should give you two different capacities, one for gross trailer weight, one for GTW with weight distribution.

I am including a couple articles and videos which may be of help to you.

expert reply by: Leah S