Weight Distribution for a 2013 Ram 1500 and 7,246 Pound Trailer

Question:

I have a 2013 Ram 1500 Crew Cab with a Hemi V8 and 3.55 Rear End gearing which increases my towing, according to the dealer, to 8800 pounds. I have recently purchased a Flagstaff travel trailer with a tongue weight of 746 and a unit weight of 7246. I am thinking the 03 hitch with a capacity of 750/10,000 would be correct for me. Am I correct?

asked by: Joe B

Expert Reply:

To choose a weight distribution system you will need to go by the total tongue weight of the set up. This is calculated by taking the tongue weight of the trailer, when loaded and ready to tow, and adding to that the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle.

If the weights you have listed are dry weights then a system that tops out at 750 pounds would not be sufficient, especially if you will also be carrying items in the truck bed of your 2013 Ram 1500. But the system rated for 750 to 1,000 pounds, # PS49583, likely would. It all depends on the total tongue weight.

I have included a link to our help article that explains how to determine tongue weight. The system listed above includes a everything but you will likely need an additional sway control bar, # 83660, since the trailer weighs more than 6,000 pounds.

The included shank has a max rise of 6 inches and max drop of 2 inches. I have also included a link to our help article on weight distribution and sway control for you.

expert reply by: Michael H