Weight distributing question - Diesel Forum

NickKent · 03-25-2008, 07:28 PM

I've got a 14k equipment trailer with a 2 5/16" coupler. I also have a Reese dual cam sway control weight distributing setup. It is the trunnion bars and is rated at 12k. The current hitch on my truck is rated at 12k w.d. too. I haven't set up the bars and brackets on the trailer yet. What I'm wondering is, should I be freaking out about 2k difference in weight that the trailer is rated for, compared to the rating of my hitch and w.d. setup? You guys should also know that what I usually tow only puts the trailer at 11-12k in weight anyway. However, sometimes the tongue weight will get to 1400 lbs with a 12k trailer. I'm really just wondering if I need to commit to a new hitch and w.d setup that is rated for the trailer. Thanks guys, Nick.

spg · 03-25-2008, 09:24 PM

If you upgrade it sounds like you would have to go with a class V Hitch Like the Reese Tow Beast with a 2.5" receiver tube. It's rated at 17K WD. You would need a new WD hitch setup which they also offer. You can still use the same Dual Cam sway control.

NickKent · 03-25-2008, 09:36 PM

Actually, I would go with the Putnam XDR hitch. Stays as a 2". But I would have to get the hitch and a new w.d. setup. I could use the old 12k reese w.d. for my tool trailer. I really don't want to upgrade, but I don't want to be unsafe either. Gut feeling tells me I will be fine with what I have. I have towed this trailer at 12-14k with 1500 lbs tongue weight no w.d. and it was steady solid. Just looking for others gut feelings on the setup.

jestersv · 03-25-2008, 10:00 PM

if it ain't broke!!!!!!! my $.02

MonteCarlo31 · 03-30-2008, 05:08 PM

I'd be hard pressed to justify changing out all my stuff for what you are hauling.

NickKent · 03-30-2008, 07:53 PM

That is the way I feel about it too. If I had a newer truck I might be more inclined to change everything out, but my truck is getting old and I never know when it might just kick it. I guess my main concern would be when I do occasionally run the trailer at 14k. Do you think going over the weight rating of the w.d setup and hitch by 2k is a really idea, or just not a great idea?