Suitability of Weight Distribution Hitch on 20-Ft Car Hauler Trailer that Carries Varying Loads
Question:
Hello, I have a car hauler trailer. 6inch frame two axles 7,000 Lb ea. 20foot deck, 14,000 Lb GVWR, unloaded wt 3,240 Lb. 2 5/16inch ball, 2 1/2inch receiver curt hitch 15809 20,000 Lb GTW 2,700 Lb TW, 2005 Dodge Ram 3500. How does one determine the correct size of a distribution hitch on this type of trailer when the weight can very from 3,240 lb to 14,000 lb . The Sway Pro BXW1500 has a TW between 1000 and 1500 , when the trailer is empty is the TW going to be less than 1000 Lb? If yes, do I not use the spring bars when the trailer is empty? And if you have a trailer that the load will vary in weight and distribution wouldnt you need to adjust the system for each particular load which would involve weighing your trailer at a scale every time and determining TW or if you have it loaded properly 60 front 40 rear. Should you just avoid a distribution hitch with a trailer that has varying loads and just stick to a standard hitch. My trailer has a GVWR of 14,000 Lb, how do I know what the maximum tongue weight is for this trailer. Thanks in advance for answering my questions.
asked by: Mark
Helpful Expert Reply:
You ask a very good question. A circumstance like yours where you have widely varying loads on your car hauler trailer makes use of a weight distribution hitch something of a challenge.
For weight distribution systems to be effective but not cause handling issues they must be tuned to your trailer's actual loaded tongue weight. The spring bars in these systems are rated for specific tongue weight ranges. If not tuned to the actual tongue weight of your loaded trailer bars that are too stiff will result in erratic handling; bars that are too flexible will be unable to force the trailer weight forward onto the tow vehicle's front wheels which is their intended purpose.
It is possible to disengage the spring bars on these systems when their effect is not needed, as when the trailer is empty, but you may still have the issue of your loaded trailer weight varying considerably with each load you haul.
Any given weight distribution system's spring bars will have an effective operating range that spans several hundred pounds of tongue weight. Let's say for example that your loaded tongue weight measures 1000-lbs; the spring bars in such a system will typically work with tongue weights from as low as 700-lbs up to a maximum of about 1200-lbs. Their effectiveness will vary across this usable weight range. You could choose a system and keep multiple sets of spring bars on hand, each with its own tongue weight rating, and swap them out as needed to suit your load at any given time.
If you are able to keep your loaded tongue weight within no more than a few hundred pound variance then you could select a system based on your typical/average measured tongue weight and just disconnect it when your tongue weight is below its operating range.
You might refer to the linked articles on tongue weight and weight distribution as you consider your needs.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - Clamp On - 15,000 lbs GTW, 1,500 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Severe Sway
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 1100 lbs
- 1200 lbs
- 1300 lbs
- 1400 lbs
- Blue Ox
more information >
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