Weight Distribution for Interstate SuperCoach Trailer 7k Pounds Loaded and 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee  

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Weight distribution is always a good idea any time the gross trailer weight is at least 50 percent of the tow vehicle weight. Given that the trailer weight when loaded will be near the capacity of the Jeep and will exceed 50 percent of its weight, weight distribution is recommended.

Also I recommend a brake controller if the trailer has electric brakes. You wouldn't want to have the Jeep do all the braking because that trailer and its momentum will push you right in the middle of an intersection!

A trailer weighing 7,000 pounds when loaded will have a tongue weight of approximately 700 to 1,050 pounds (10 to 15 percent of the gross trailer weight. But 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 that total tongue weight ends up staying in the 700 to 1,050 pound range I recommend a system that is rated for 600 to 1,200 pounds tongue weight to cover the full range. System # RP66542 is weight distribution only, no sway control, # RP66084 includes dual-cam sway control, and # RP66560 includes friction sway control.

All of these systems also come with a shank that has a max drop of 1-1/4 inches and max rise of 6-1/2 inches. Other shanks are available separately if more rise or drop is needed. For a ball, you likely will need a 2-5/16 inch ball, # 19286. But if the trailer takes a 2 inch ball use # A-90. I have included some links on determining tongue weight and weight distribution for you.

expert reply by: Michael H

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