RV MAIL
LETTERS FROM THE ROAD
WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION HITCHES
We have always used a weight distribution hitch ( WDH ) when towing caravans . My existing hitches are worn out and need replacing , and I have been testing out the van and vehicle for any changes in towing on our last couple of trips without a WDH .
We have a 2015 D-MAX and tow a van with an ATM of 3500kg . I am very mindful of weights and have my own digital scales . The van has ESC and I believe it is well balanced and under gross weights allowed for vehicle and van . It is very stable to tow , with no incidents of sway or loss of traction in the vehicle .
I would be interested in your comments and whether further testing would make a good article as there must be many of us that are considering the relevance of WDHs .
Steve Abraham
magazine , we ’ d like to hear it ! Email your feedback to info @ gorv . com . au
Thanks for your letter , Steve . There are various schools of thought about WDHs . Personally , I have the ‘ medium duty ’ 600lb Hayman Reese WDH but use it only when the weight imposed by the van ’ s coupling causes the rear of the tow vehicle to sag more than 15mm . Having said that , Isuzu doesn ’ t recommend the use of a WDH for my personal vehicle ( a 2018 MU-X , which I love ).
It sounds as though you are a wellinformed vanner . However , when towing fully-loaded , your ball weight would be around 350kg , I suspect . I further suspect that weight would make the rear of your D-MAX sag a bit , despite the heavy-duty rear leafsprings . I would recommend measuring the difference , even if just for the sake of curiosity .
I don ’ t view WDHs a ‘ cure-all ’ – any underlying issues in terms of stability and levelling the van should be addressed first . However , they certainly have their place and can make a noticeable difference to towing dynamics . And yes , if you ’ re offering to share your experiences with other GoRV readers , I ’ d love to hear more ! – Ed
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