Determining the Correct Weight Distribution System for Toy Hauler

Question:

How close do the ed trunnion bars in a weight distribution system need to be to the actual tounge weight of the trailer? I have a toy hauler that ranges from 7000# empty to 11000# loaded, and the actual tongue weight would shift based on the actual trailer weight if I load it properly. If I got a 12k max/1200# tounge WD system likely the Reese Strait-Line, would that be safe to use in the under-loaded state of 7000#?

asked by: Scott N

Expert Reply:

The spring bars for a given weight distribution system are effective over a certain range of tongue weight. The Reese Strait-Line system, part # RP66084 is effective on trailers with tongue weights ranging from 600 to 1200 lbs. Toy haulers are a bit tricky to spec a system for, because when they are empty, they actually have a higher tongue weight. This is because when the garage or storage area is loaded, the tongue weight tends to decrease. With equipement in the garage, the trailer actually weighs more, but because it's loaded at the rear of the trailer, it acts as a counterweight to the tongue weight.

The best way to proceed is to determine the fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight, and the tongue weight when the garage is empty. You would then find a system whose effective range can accommodate both scenarios. The effective range of the # RP66084 system is pretty wide, spanning 600 lbs. As long as the TW of the trailer doesn't exceed 1200 lbs, it would be an excellent choice.

I'll link you to some help articles about weight distribution.

expert reply by: Mike L