wa8yxm wrote:
The Max Combined Vehicle Weight is not changed by addition of air bags.
But the weight distribution may be. so for some vehicles with more of the weight moved to the FRONT you can tow more. this is what a load equalizing hitch does.
A air bag just lifts the rear. exceeding rear axle ratings can be... bad.
IMO, this is correct. Towing (weight distribution) with a ball type trailer hitch vs. a 5th wheel hitch is not the same statically or dynamically. With a 5th wheel type tow hitch, the trailer tongue weight is applied to the tow vehicle as close to directly above the rear axle as possible. (this is adjustable) That minimizes the moment that the 5th wheel tongue weight imparts to the frame of the tow vehicle. The tongue weight of a ball type trailer hitch loads the tow vehicle well BEHIND the rear axle. The moment imparted into the frame of the tow vehicle reduces weight on the front axle and adds it to the rear axle, possibly, under some conditions, overloading it. The weight distribution bar (load equalizing bar) reduces the vertical angular flexibility of the ball and socket type trailer hitch. Air bags do nothing to change the flexibility of a ball and socket type trailer hitch so the final weight distribution seeks the path of least resistance.
Chum lee
