How to Determine which Weight Distribution System to Use
Question:
What is the point of a hitch that does not allow backing? Also can you recommend a chain hitch system with and without sway control for a tayota tacoma pulling a 3500 dry weight trailer. I would like a complete system. And how do I figure what toung weight hitch to get? Thanks.
asked by: Greg
Expert Reply:
In reference to backing up, it is only certain types of sway control systems that limit reversing. It is not all inclusive for weight distribution systems. On the affected systems that use friction sway control it only takes a few seconds to disengage the system to be able to back up at sharper angles.
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. I have linked a help article that explains how to determine tongue weight.
Tongue weight is typically 10 to 15 percent of the gross trailer weight. For a 3500 pound trailer that would be 350 to 500 pounds. But when the trailer is loaded it will weigh more which means the tongue weight will be higher. Once you know the total tongue weight I can recommend some systems for you.
