Best Weight Distribution for 2007 Honda Odyssey and Coleman Tacoma Pop Up Camper Trailer

Question:

My tow vehicle is 2007 Honda Odyssey and looking to purchase 2002 Coleman Tacoma. GCVW is 8,410 and GVWR is 5,952 but i would be closer to 5,442. The weight on the pup up regeristation is 1,950. Honda recommends a WDH over 1,800. Would i be ok to tow and what do you recommend. I belive the reese mini 350 66041 is for fleetwood and coleman and has brackets to place spring bar so it does not interfere with anything mounted on trailer.

asked by: Frank

Expert Reply:

Since the owners manual for your 2007 Honda Odyssey says to use weight distribution for a trailer weighing over 1,800 pounds, you will want to use one with your Coleman pup. But Reese has discontinued the Mini-Lite systems, including the one made specifically for Coleman campers. In its place they have light duty system # 66557.

This system is rated for up to 400 pounds tongue weight. When choosing 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.

This system includes narrow brackets that can be mounted from 25 to 32 inches back measuring from the center of the coupler ball cavity back along the frame. This should be enough of a range to mount the brackets so that they do not interfere with anything on the frame. I have linked the instructions to the right with more details.

You will also need to add a properly sized ball. Use # 63845 for a 2 inch or # 63847 for a 2-5/16 inch. I have included links to the right on determining tongue weight and on weight distribution for you.

expert reply by: Michael H