How do you determine if you need a weight distribution hitch? My hybrid tongue is about 300# or so. Does not make my Silverado squat any. I have a sway bar mounted to a standard ball receiver. Pretty slick platform with a 1" ball for the bar.
Hi EB,
I'm not sure what you mean by a "standard ball receiver". Do you mean a ball platform that includes provision for spring bars or just an extension from the receiver with a ball mounted on it? I think probably you have the first as you have a sway control ball mounted also. Yes, you should use WD, in my opinion. even though your tounge weight is fairly low, it is still enough to require WD for good handling. What kind of tow vehicle, and trailer, are you pulling?
2004 Sunnybrook Titan 30FKS TT
Hensley "Arrow" 1400# hitch
2002 Ford F250 Super Duty, 7.3L PSD Visit our website here
I tow our 16' trailer with my 4x4 Suburban without WD. Dry hitch weight is 200#, typical loaded is 250-270#, and our max is 300# (I've gotten certified weights for different configurations). Whether typical or max, our Burb only drops 1/2" in the rear when hitched up. It sounds like your Silverado does the same.
Since you're right at the general threshold for WD use with a 1/2 ton (300#), have you gotten actual certified weights to determine what your loaded hitch weight range actually is?
If your max is below 350#, I think you're okay. If it's above 350#, I think you need to seriously consider it.
JMHO,
Wes
98 GMC Suburban K1500 5.7L 3.73 Z82HD Tow
02 Shadow Cruiser Fun Finder T-160
I have a 17' Dutchmen Ultralite Hybrid towed by 02 Silverado 4x4. The hitch is the smaller one. There is an adapter plate that goes under the ball and sticks out port side for the 1" anti sway. It's a pretty nice trick for the added protection. I would have to buy another hitch to rig up WD.
EB
*This Message was edited on 15-Jan-03 08:36 PM by vadutchman*
Ok Dutch - let's see if your tow squats when loaded trailer is attached! Measure height from level ground in front and back wheel wells. If you are higher in front that in back you need WD.
Hank & Pat in New Hampshire wishing you-all safe journeys: Toyota Tundra (V-8, 4wd, 4.75L.,245 hp) Roadmaster Active Suspension; Nash 22H travel trailer, PullRite Hitch, Prodigy Brake Controller.
We would never tow a single axle trailer of significant weight again.
WHEN IN TROUBLE - WHEN IN DOUBT - RUN IN CIRCLES - SCREAM AND SHOUT!
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