Which Weight Distribution Hitch for a 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan and a 3100 Pound Trailer

Question:

Hi I have a 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan with a tow package with a 3800 trailer weight limit and 380 lb tongue weight limit. Ive installed a hitch with a 2 inch receiver that has a rating of 4000 lb and 400 lb tongue weight when using a weight distribution hitch. Ill be pulling a Shamrock 17 hybrid trailer that weighs 3100 unloaded UVW and has a dry tongue weight of 350 lb. What weight distribution hitch would you recommend?

asked by: Kevin M

Expert Reply:

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

Tongue weight is typically 10 to 15 percent of the gross trailer weight. For a 3,100 pound trailer that would be 310 to 465 pounds. Based on these numbers I recommend a system rated 200 to 600 pounds tongue weight, # RP65509. You will just need to add a ball to this system. Use # A-90 for a 2 inch or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch.

If you wanted to add sway control use # 83660. I have included some links on determining tongue weight and on weight distribution for you.

expert reply by: Patrick B