Hauling to VOI7 - Need Info on Weight Dist. Hitch

[Gus Strakes]

I am hauling the GTS from Baltimore to Nashville for VOI7 (there are 3 of us attending, so driving is out), and I need advice on what type or brand of weight distribution hitch to buy. I am currently looking at Putnam, Curt, and Valley. Should I also get the sway bars? I have a 16' open trailer (with wind screen),and will be pulling with a '99 Durango. I have made fairly long trips in the past with the existing standard hitch with no problem, but have always kept my speed at 60-65mph. I'd like to upgrade to a weight distribution hitch so I can make a little bit better time to and from Nashville. Thanks for any info you can provide, and if anyone knows of any good deals on one, you can Email me.

 

[GTS Dean]

On a trailer that short with a car that light, I wouldn't spend the money on swaybars. It becomes more of a factor with an enclosed trailer - especially the longer they get - because there's more room to stash "stuff" that weighs a lot. If you don't alread have it - get a class 3 or 4 receiver hitch and make sure the trailer and tow vehicle sit close to level when loaded. Air pressure in the tires is always critical, as is tongue weight. The trailer has 4 tires, make sure that the Viper is fairly well centered over them.

 

[Mopar Steve]

Gus, I will be trailering my Viper also. I have an enclosed 20' that I tow with my Durango. I am glad to hear that someone else is towing. Who do I need to contact regarding the overnight in VA? I would like to hook up with your group there if not sooner? E-Mail me directly at [email protected] Thanks!

Steve

 

[Ron Hickey]

Steve,

Details on the VOI7 convoy are on our Va-Md website at http://vamd.viperclub.org/ . (You must have missed the postcard we sent out in June announcing this.)

 

[Fred(DrivingSchool)Kinder]

Hi Gus, Look forward to seeing you at VOI7. Things have changed since our Le Mans trip. We now have a 3 yr old son, what a pleasure.

I tow with our 2002 Grand Cherokee Overland, pulling an open Featherlite with a wind screen. A good brake controller helps. I do not agree with GTS Dean regarding tongue weight. If you want keep a good pace you do not want the trailer to make the rear end of the tow rig light when going over bumps in the freeway. I like some tongue weight. What is some? I have marks on the trailer to position the snake, for what feels good, based on experimentation.

I also use frame T or J frame hooks to attach to frame.

Have a safe trip!

 

[Jay Lopez]

I use the Equalizer to pull my 24 foot enclosed Wells Cargo with my Excursion. It works great! It's both a load leveler, and an anti-sway setup.
http://www.equalizerhitch.com/