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Charlie_D_'s avatar
Charlie_D_
Explorer
Aug 18, 2021

Towing New Trailer

We sold our 5th wheel and truck back last September because of health problems wife and I were having along with our Daschund becoming paralyzed. Our health is now better and we decided to buy a travel trailer.
I can kick myself for selling the the Duramax but that is in the past.

I have done the calculations and believe my numbers are correct but seeking confirmation.

Truck is a 2020 Silverado 1500 2 wheel drive LTZ. 5.3L with 3.23 axle. ITC, 8-speed with tow package and tow haul.
Scaled the truck weighs:
Steer axle-2880
Drive axle-2260
for a total of 5140
GVWR-6900
GAWR front-3700
GAWR-rear-3800
Conventional trailer-9800
Max tongue weight-980
Tires are 275/60R20 LT's

TT is a Grand Junction Transcend 240ML
UVW-6265
Hitch-598
Length-29'9"
I know this is close but will change with propane, hitch, battery, etc.
I will replace the Chinese tires with Goodyear Assurance.
Been to 3 dealers asking about WDH hitches. One recommends Blue Ox. Another Equalizer. Another a Fastway E2. Made in China so not an option.
Seems the Equalizer is highly respected and many people use them.

This being my first time pulling a travel trailer so what size weight distribution is your recommendation?
  • I had an Equal-i-zer hitch on my first TT.
    Now I have a BlueOx Sway Pro hitch on my Airstream. It works well and does what it’s suppose to do, but it can be a ***** to hook up and to un hitch. It came with the trailer. Otherwise I would have gone with an Equal-i-zer.
  • Agree you are really close, and by the time you load it you will probably be over the max tongue weight, or right at it. You need from 10 to 12% tongue weight to make it tow correctly.

    IF I were you, I would go with the Reese Dual Cam hitch. with no less than 800lb bars. It has built in sway control.
    As for the tires. I have never heard of GY assurance trailer tires. Maybe you meant Endurance, which is a good choice.

    enjoy above all else.

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