Cairn terrier wrote:
snip...
My Ridgeline book notes to NOT use a weight distribution hitch. Anyone with experience in this area with a Ridgeline?
Welcome to the forum
The Ridgeline is derived from the Odyssey, as is the Pilot. All three
share the basic platform and are monocoque (Unibody). Though the Ridgeline
does have a sub-frame of sorts that adds to the platforms torsional
rigidity
Understand how a WD Hitch system works and that they are generally NOT
advised by OEMs for their monocoque (Unibody) vehicles.
Once you understand how a WD Hitch system works, next is to understand
the difference between a ladder frame architecture vs monocoque (Unibody)
Your proposed trailer is in the grey area of needing/required to have
brakes and WD Hitch setup.
The trailer brake requirement varies from state to state. So check your
DMV's rule book. I'd have them regardless, as it just ups the safety factor
or margin
The need for WD is up to the TV and receiver vs the trailers actual
tongue weight.
Using a WD on a Monocoque will NOT have the spot welds fail instantly,
but will sooner than later. Also dependent on how you drive, where
you drive and a host of other attributes (speeding over RR crossings,
pot holes, etc that dynamically increase the tongue weight)
Sway control is up to you. All trailers, small to big, can and do
sway at some time or another. Magnitude is the issue and the TV's
ability to manhandle (control) the goal.
Check out these old posts that apply to your decision making. My opinion
and you will find opinions ranging all over the place. The decision
is yours and the end setup is the responsibility of the driver (they
get whatever ticket might to issued...speeding, etc)
WD hitches and unibodyWt Distr Hitch is not recommended for our vehicle
