I usually pull with my 3/4 ton Chevy but we’re taking the whole family in one car this time. Should I get a 2” drop instead of a 4” drop or do I need to get a weight distribution hitch? It’s probably the only trip I’ll ever pull with the Wagoneer
Too much tongue weight or over loaded tow vehicle. Move some of your load to behind the trailer axles
You need a weight distribution hitch.
Little droopy, might get a bit uncomfortable if you hit big dips. Might want to consider an equalizer hitch.
I would think about your family’s safety over anything here…
You need to hit up a scale and get your SUV’s front and rear axle weights with all passengers/cargo/gasline/etc and gross trailer weight all loaded up and ready to go. Then you need to calculate 13-15% tongue weight, compare that to your vehicles capacity and axle weight ratings on the sicker in your drivers door jamb, and the SAE J2807 tow capacity ratings for your vehicle. You will have to probably use Google to find that. They will be less than whatever the salesman told you, guaranteed.
I would strongly recommend a weight distribution hitch sized for your anticipated maximum tongue weight. If you anticipate a maximum of 800lbs tongue weight, get a WDH rated for 800lbs. Getting one rated for 1500lbs isn’t necessarily a better one. In fact, it could cause damage to your trailer frame because it will be too stiff. Don’t forget to account for 60-100 lbs for your WDH itself. That will come right off the top of your usable payload. Anything anyone else says is just conjecture.
What does your manual say your tow capacity is WITHOUT a weight distribution hitch? It’s probably about half your tow capacity.
You have a brake controller right?
The verdict is: you need a weight distro hitch. Just a bit too much squat IMO. Spend the money to ensure safety
Source: Tow police, what’s the verdict?
