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sattybeach's avatar
sattybeach
Explorer
May 25, 2015

weight distribution hitch size question

Hi All

I own a 99 Suburban k2500 8600gvw

Factory tow setup

sticker states

weight carrying 5000 500 tongue

weight distribution 10000 1000 tongue


I will be towing a 18ft (20 with nose) dual 3500 axle enclosed trailer with a dry weight of 2510.Moving cross country carying around 3000 -3500k worth of stuff

Most likely would be carrying around 200lbs of stuff in back of suburban


I can get a good deal on a barely used (used twice) curt weight distribution hitch (round bar) with one anti sway attatchment

It is rated for 14k with a max tongue weight of 1400

Is this system too big for me to use? or can it be used somehow?

Thanks All for your time ,much appreciated
Tow Vehicles

2 Replies

  • otrfun's avatar
    otrfun
    Explorer II
    May 26, 2015
    The 5000 (gross)/500 (tongue) lb. rating is the maximum rating when towing without weight distribution bars. The 10,000 (gross)/1,000 (tongue) lb. the maximum rating when towing with properly adjusted weight distribution bars.

    Using your numbers, looks like your trailer will weigh almost 6000 lbs. loaded. If you load the trailer properly, your tongue weight should be approx. 600-900 lbs.

    Although you can use the Curt 14,000 (gross)/1,400 (tongue) lb. weight distribution bars, it's gonna be a bit "stiff" during use. 600-900 lbs. of tongue weight is not going to be enough weight to get the 1,400 lb. bars into their nominal operational range. I'd try to get one rated for 600-800 lbs. or 800-1000 lbs. of tongue weight to give you a more fluid range of adjustment and operation.
  • donn0128's avatar
    donn0128
    Explorer II
    May 25, 2015
    Get it, use it. Heavier hotch assembly is not a problem. Proper setup is weight dependent. To get it right you need a set of scales to adjust correct weight transfer to the front axle.

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