Calculating weight distribution requirements?

icanon wrote:
Assuming I load it to the max load of 1,500lbs therefore I'll be around 7,500lbs but the TW is were I'm trying to respect to a max of 960. After reading many blogs and forums about whether or not to install a WD and/or Sway control has me wondering what route to go? I believe and my thoughts that there is no harm in installing a system like equalizer only to benefit if there is any, any problems that can occur out on the road.

Thanks for the reply. Will update my signature to reflect my rig :-)

Due to weight and size of your trailer, you do need WD hitch and sway control. When you hang that tongue weight on the back of your truck, it will add weight to your rear axle, and take weight off your front axle. The primary job of a WD hitch is to restore some (or all) of that weight, back to the front axle. Your air suspension system, makes the body of the truck and front of the trailer look level, gives you a false sense of security, but, it restores little to no weight back to the front axle.

If your tow vehicle is too lite on the front axle, even the slightest hand movement (subconscious or not) will move the front wheels back and forth and cause the trailer to sway.

Also, take a look at the hitch receiver on the truck. It will have two weight ratings stamped on it. One rating is a dead weight rating (without WD) the other (much higher) is with a WD hitch. You will most likely see that 950 lbs is far above the dead weight rating on your receiver.

Here is a link to a video, showing installation of a BlueOx Swaypro WD hitch. One of the first steps is to disable air suspension system.