Forum Discussion

thehelferfamily's avatar
thehelferfamily
Explorer
Apr 10, 2015

Best hitch for highwall toy hauler pup?

Hello all,
After a far too lengthy absence from camping, we are finally in the process of buying a new to us 2011 Jayco 14F. It is a highwall toy hauler pup and we couldn't be more excited!! Our previous RV was a 40 ft 5th wheel, then we "down sized" to tent camping, and finally we are ready to get off the ground and into a pup. So on to my question, what would be the best weight distribution and anti sway hitch for the new pup? We are towing with 2005 Yukon Xl Denali 6.0L engine. We do not have any "toys" for the front deck other than bicycles, large cooler, firewood, camp chairs, etc. The dealer says we don't need anything, but I know we're not comfortable with that. He has suggested an EAZ-lift WD and friction anti-sway. Not familiar at all with this system, so we are looking for input and recommendations,. Thanks in advance for your help!

Don and Heather
3 beautiful girls
1 fat dog :-)
Folding Trailers
  • thehelferfamily's avatar
    thehelferfamily
    Explorer
    Apr 12, 2015
    Thanks so much for the replies! Sounds like we should be good to go with the set up they are putting on the trailer. We plan on installing a metal truck box on the front of the deck for extra storage so that should help the tongue weight issue. Thanks again! We'll post pics of the rig when we pick it up in about 10 days!
  • 4runnerguy's avatar
    4runnerguy
    Explorer
    Apr 11, 2015
    According to the specs online, the Denali has a 600# dead weight hitch rating. These trailers with the large deck on the front are in general somewhat light in the front end which contributes to sway problems. They design the trailer so that the weight of a 4x4 or a couple of motorcycles will help offset the light tongue weight. Pay attention to where the various water tanks are (ahead or behind axles) as water weight to the rear will lighten the tongue weight even more. It will be important to load your heavy items closer to the front of the deck.

    If you go with a WD hitch, make sure the frame of the trailer is designed to take it and don't get too big of unit. I would think a unit with a 750# or 800# rating max would be more than adequate. Given the light tongue weight and depending on the WD hitch you get, you might need a friction control.
  • opnspaces's avatar
    opnspaces
    Navigator II
    Apr 11, 2015
    I would look at the receiver on your tow vehicle and see if there is a sticker stating the capacities of the hitch. If it's not there then try the owners manual. I would guess that your hitch is rated for 500lb weight carrying only and 1,000lb weight distribution. Based on your tongue weight you might need weight distribution.

    I'll bet that you don't need sway control on that trailer, especially if you load things on the front deck.
  • Dakota98's avatar
    Dakota98
    Explorer
    Apr 11, 2015
    I based my opinion in my original posting in respect to what the OP said about not having any heavy toys loaded on the front platform.

    UVW on the pup is 3,845

    The Jayco owners Forum may be a good source for more information & what other PUP owners are doing.

    HERE
  • camp-n-family's avatar
    camp-n-family
    Explorer
    Apr 11, 2015
    The type of hitch required will depend on your loaded tongue weight and the trucks receiver rating. Without knowing those it would be hard to know if you need one or not.

    You will most likely be restricted by the receiver rating. An educated guess? Since the "dry" hitch weight is around 500lbs and the GVWR is 7500lbs you will likely need one.
  • Dakota98's avatar
    Dakota98
    Explorer
    Apr 11, 2015
    I don't think you need one either. Try hauling it around, as a test on the hwy near home etc & see if you think it really requires the hitch.

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