schwank

So I just picked up a new 24' enclosed trailer this past week. Got a few options installed at the factory but will add things like cabinets later on. Already have some e-track to install and will be working on floor finishes, tire storage, and other niceties ahead of racing season.

Anyway, I need to upgrade to a weight distributing hitch. I'll be towing probably 8000 pounds around the Northwest, including windy mountain passes and such. Assuming 10% tongue weight that puts me right at 800lbs. Most of these hitches are for 800 lbs or 1200lbs, so it seems I would want to err on the side of safety and get a 1200lb model?

I did run a few searches here and based on what I've read it looks like I want sway control in addition to weight distribution. From many posts it seems these are the two I should be looking at:

Reese Strait-Line (dual cam sway):
http://www.etrailer.com/Weight-Distr...e/RP66074.html

Reese SC (friction sway):
http://www.etrailer.com/Weight-Distr...e/RP66155.html

Which one is better for my use? Thanks!

mooty

dual cam sway by reese is one of the best.
i run that on my 24' pulled by a 2500 duramax
very easy to use.

M758

I use and equalizer E2 hitch for my 24 ft trailer that I tow behind my 2500 dodge. The setup is rock solid this way. Otherwise you can get blown around by wind due to the sail area of the trailer.


Nice trailer!

Gary R.

I have the Reese "Straight-Line" system, love it.

http://www.etrailer.com/Weight-Distr...e/RP66074.html

Shop around, prices vary.

Jeff Lamb

I tow a heavy 28' enclosed trailer (around 9,000 pounds gross weight) behind my 2005 Suburban 2500 using the friction type Equalizer hitch (http://www.equalizerhitch.com/) with good results. The Suburban has a relatively short wheelbase and a fairly long distance from the rear axle to the hitch making it very important to use a good weight distributing / sway control hitch. It looks like the Reese friction based unit would be just as good if not maybe even better. I have not used the Reese dual cam setup so I have no first hand experience with one of those.

I am sure you didn't miss this detail on your trailer but it never hurts to double check: What is the weight rating of your axles? I am assuming they are at least the 5,000 pound (6 lug) axles and not the lower capacity 3,500 pound (5 lug) axles. Proper tire choice is also very important.

Jeff

schwank

Oh yeah, the trailer has the proper 5K axles for a 10K weight rating. etrailer is not the cheapest around but they do have the pretty pics so we can compare Looks like around $500 for the 1200lb strait-line on some other sites.

So am I correct in going for the 1200lb model and not the 800lb? Want to put in an order on one of these tomorrow so I can get things setup before I have to race next month.

M758

Btw I use a 1000lbs E2 hitch. Figured I would not run more that 1000lbs on the tongue.

My 24 has on 3500lbs axles, but for the price I paid for it I consider it worth while. To keep trailer weight under control I load my spare tires and gas cans in thread of my truck.

In any event with 3 sets of tires 20 gals of gas and 4 50lbs tent weights and two large coolers with my hitch my truck road perfectly level. Without the hitch it would sag a bit.

stownsen914

Especially if you need to buy one anyway, go for one that will definitely handle the load. I've heard of rare cases of underrated hitches breaking, which I would imagine really ruins your day (and track weekend).

Scott

smlporsche

Yes get the 1200# ones.
By the time you add the cabinets (and all the junk you'll put in there) you may be suprised at your toungue weight.

mooty

the dual cam one you will feel nothing. it is very stable.