Forum Discussion

Stromboli's avatar
Stromboli
Explorer
Jul 28, 2018

What Weight Distrubition Bars to use

Panic post.
Picking up new trailer tomorrow, Nash 17K.
Dry Axle Weight (approx. Lbs.): 3974
Dry Hitch Weight (approx. Lbs.): 530
Net Carrying Capacity: 2496
Gross Dry Weight – Lbs.: 4504
Gross Vehicle Weight (GVWR) – Lbs.: 7000
Trying to figure what size weight distribution bars to use.
I have a Husky hitch with bars that are rated 801 to 1200 and the dealer says they are fine and that would be what he would sell me, but that seems overkill for a rated hitch weight of 530.
Yes, more prior research would have been wise.
  • Thanks for everybody's help, got her home safe and sound.
    Thanks Rover_Bill for an explanation that I could understand.
    She towed really well, no issues at all, even on some fairly narrow and twisty roads.
    jerem0621, I wasn't panicking, I was just preparing to panic.
    And everyone is right, loaded for a trip tongue weight will be much higher.

  • Completely forget about ANY THING that has to do with "Dry" weight.
    When you are trip loaded with that trailer you are going to have around 800 lbs of tongue weight or even more...

    Use the bars you have and get on down the road.
  • Stop panicking!

    That’s when you make mistakes.

    Set your hitch up with the bars you have. After you are packed and ready for camp then get your weights and then buy lighter spring bars if needed. I suspect you are fine.

    Don’t forget that the silly brochure “dry weight” only applies once and probably doesn’t jnclude propane tanks and a battery.

    What tow vehicle are you using?

    Thanks,

    Jeremiah
  • Welcome to the forum!

    Don't worry your 1200# bars will be just right for your 7000# TT. A full loaded 7000# class TT will add about 1050# (7000 X .15) to you TV. The WDH will distribute that weight onto both steering and drive axles of the TV when it's properly adjusted. Be sure to have your dealer install and adjust the WDH (experience counts) and your brake controller.

    When you have the TT fully loaded on your first camping trip, have your rig weighed at a CAT scale to be sure the WDH is properly adjusted. See the CAT scale website for info on how to correctly weigh your rig.

    Enjoy!