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How do I know if I need a load distribution hitch?
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11 Posts
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August 20, 2017 - 1:34 pm
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How do you know when a load distribution hitch is needed?
In this case I'm pulling a trailer with a gross weight of about 3200 lbs loaded.

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1573 Posts
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August 20, 2017 - 5:48 pm
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Generally when the weight of the trailer is within 50% of the weight of the Tow Vehicle, you should be considering it.

Other factors that would make you use one is when the tongue weight of the trailer is at the limit of the hitch weight.

Here is a good general article primer:
http://onlinetowingguide.com/h....._dist.html

Martini Glass The happiest people don't have the best of everything, they just make the best of everything that they have!
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2545 Posts
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August 21, 2017 - 9:09 am
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What are you towing and with what?  CampingPhil gave you the math, my thought is if you hook up and it looks like your tow vehicle looks like it's pulling a wheelie.....you need one.  The more weight that is in the rear the "lighter" your front wheels are.  As a result your steering can be very different and not respond as well.  Also your TV may be able to tow X pounds only with a weight distribution system. 

Matt O 2006 Skyline Nomad 27' travel trailer.  Previously owned 1986 Coleman Columbia / 1992 Coleman Senecca / 1989 Born Free Class C RV.

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30 Posts
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August 22, 2017 - 8:19 pm
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[quote author=CampingPhil link=topic=3698.msg36210#msg36210 date=1503265695]
Generally when the weight of the trailer is within 50% of the weight of the Tow Vehicle, you should be considering it

Yikes, really? My Trailblazer is 5900lb and my Fleetwood Niagra is 3700lb empty, closer to 4000lb when loaded with camping gear. That puts me well over the 50% mark. Steering hasn't felt at all light or affected in any way, so tongue weight seems okay. But by that math I really need to start looking at distribution hitch

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702 Posts
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August 23, 2017 - 8:33 am
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Most popup campers will not allow WDH. The frames are not strong enough. So check in your manual, dealer or Manufacturer. Rule of thumb if the frame is C" channel it is not strong enough

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11 Posts
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August 23, 2017 - 9:09 am
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I'm towing a hybrid that's about 3200 lbs loaded, the towing capacity of my SUV is 5000 lbs.

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702 Posts
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August 23, 2017 - 11:45 am
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If it was mine i would have one, if nothing than the safety factor> :chief:

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1573 Posts
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August 23, 2017 - 2:13 pm
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And until you have towed with a weight distribution hitch, you will never know how much easier it is. I will never look back.

Martini Glass The happiest people don't have the best of everything, they just make the best of everything that they have!
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August 23, 2017 - 8:48 pm
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Thanks for your help! It looks like I'm going to need one. Any tips or suggestions when buying one?
Does that work for sway or do I need something in addition for sway?

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1573 Posts
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August 23, 2017 - 9:32 pm
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Most of the better WDH have sway control designed into them, either 2 point or 4 point.

The top of the line is Equalizer. Reese is in the middle of the pack.

Martini Glass The happiest people don't have the best of everything, they just make the best of everything that they have!
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2545 Posts
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August 24, 2017 - 9:48 am
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I have a harbor freight WDH.  Other WDH's have nice options and ways to hook it up but I'm satisfied with what I have.  I tow a 27 foot TT with a full size truck.  I don't have the anti-sway bar. 

$160 after the 25% off coupon.  The anti sway part of the hitch is another $23 after the 25% coupon.   

https://www.harborfreight.com/.....61720.html
https://www.harborfreight.com/.....96462.html

Matt O 2006 Skyline Nomad 27' travel trailer.  Previously owned 1986 Coleman Columbia / 1992 Coleman Senecca / 1989 Born Free Class C RV.

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702 Posts
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August 24, 2017 - 1:30 pm
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Spend the money once and get a quality hitch. Unlike a friction link the current systems actually help keep the TV and Trailer straight.

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1573 Posts
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August 24, 2017 - 2:36 pm
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Martini Glass The happiest people don't have the best of everything, they just make the best of everything that they have!
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