Hello all, I have a half ton truck with a lightweight trailer (4700lbs dry weight) and have never used a weight distribution hitch though I have one sitting in my garage and will use it if they really make a difference on fuel mileage etc... thoughts?

The weight distribution hitch is not designed to improve fuel mileage. It is designed to transfer weight to the front axle and better stability control in heavy wind and traffic - large vehicles passing you.What make is the hitch - does it have cam locks?Angela

Thanks for the fast response. I was doing some research and this article (http://voices.yahoo.com/gas-savings-tips-towing-travel-trailer-7934006.html) gave me the idea about using the hitch as we're likely to travel around 3500 miles this month so anything to save a little gas money will help. :)And this is the hitch: http://www.campingworld.com/shopping/item/Camco-Elite-Weight-Distributing-Hitch-Kit-1000-lbs-Capacity/52097/&?&affiliateid=3274&cvsfa=2734&cvsfe=2&cvsfhu=3532303937&gclid=CMv59PnvpbYCFZFaMgodQHgAdA

WDH won't help fuel mileage. If your tongue weight is within the spec for you're hitch's tongue weight WITHOUT WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION then there really is no need for the WDH.I will guess that your hitch is rated for 500 pounds of tongue weight without distribution. A trailer as light as yours may be under that but I doubt it. If it is under then weight distribution is not needed.Using it may improve handling and ride. Since you have it I would try it and see if you see an improvement.

Lots of reasons to use one, that are convenience or comfort in nature. the ONE reason that matters for using a WD system is so you don't exceed your trucks receiver rating. MOST half ton trucks have a tongue weight limit of 500 lb. unless a WD is used and WITH one in use the rating goes up to 1,000 lb. and more.Avoiding overloading an important component is a VERY good reason.

Awesome, great info and thanks. I'll give it a try. I pulled my trucks info and found I have a class IV receiver which I think gives me a max tongue weight of 1,000 but the WD hitch is worth a try so I'll let ya know how it does. We're taking off tomorrow and climbing over the Rockies (Loveland Pass) so it should be fun as long as we don't hit any of Colorado's Mountain blizzards =)Thanks again for the info, I really appreciate it.

Do Weight Distribution Hitches Matter much? | Good Sam Community

Chuck_Gail
Explorer
Mar 31, 2013
If you load everything up fully as you would tow, including people, and go to the local scales, you will likely scare yourself enough to use the WDH. Look at the TV front axle weights with and without the TT attached.

Personally I do not EVER want my front wheels, which do all the steering, and most of the braking, getting lighter.
vermilye
Explorer
Mar 31, 2013
Whether spam or not, another reason for using a WDH is if you tow a lightweight trailer with a front wheel drive vehicle. Even with the hitch weight within specifications, you may transfer too much weight to the rear, reducing front wheel traction & steering. The WDH helps by transferring rear weight to the trailer axle & tow vehicle's front axle.
jmiller
Explorer
Mar 31, 2013
Doubt it...:B
beemerphile1
Explorer
Mar 31, 2013
I think maybe you have all been played. The OP's profile has a website which indicates they rent and sell trailers. Maybe this was just a ruse to spam RV.net?
jmiller
Explorer
Mar 31, 2013
DE88ROX wrote:
Im sorry, but I must ask. You're a trailer broker and you're just now discovering WDH's?

I second that.:h
trailerbroker
Explorer
Mar 31, 2013
I bet those downhill runs do help! It's all hooked up, you can all rest easier knowing I'll be climbing the hills safely. ;) Thanks again much appreciated. Take care, we're off to the hills!
Cobra21
Explorer
Mar 31, 2013
I used one with our 1/2 ton suburban and 3,800 lb travel trailer.
The ride went from like a 3/4 ton old farm truck to a brand new Cadillac. It was an incredible difference.

Brian
trailerbroker
Explorer
Mar 31, 2013
Right on! The WDH it is :) Thanks for the invaluable feedback.
DE88ROX
Explorer
Mar 31, 2013
Im sorry, but I must ask. You're a trailer broker and you're just now discovering WDH's?
texasclarks
Explorer
Mar 31, 2013
Please use the WD Hitch. Your 1/2 ton might be capable enough, but for the safety of you, your family, and the rest of the people on the road - please use the WD Hitch and ensure it is set up safely.

If it helps sway your decision in using the WD Hitch..

Most definitely, WD hitches, properly set up will gain you at least 15% improvement in fuel economy...especially on the downhills vs. uphills (sarcasm intended :D)