Anyone got an aluminum frame trailer that they have used with a weight distribution hitch? I'm eventually going to need a trailer bigger than 7k once I get the subframe for the backhoe on my new tractor. I have a limited tow capacity per manufacturer rating (9300 lb) so I wanted to go with an open frame aluminum 10k trailer to help keep the weight lower since I'll be around 6000+ lb for the tractor. My understanding is that (most?) aluminum trailers aren't recommended for use with weight distribution hitches and the manufacturer says WD required for over 7k towing with the truck. a 7x20 steel trailer is going to be pretty much 3k, and with the tractor i'm going to be right at my tow rating, not to mention probably right on top of the 15k combined number. An aluminum trailer would likely save me 500 lbs if i can go that way. I'm quite certain i've never seen anyone towing an open trailer with a WD setup around here, though i'm pretty sure most 1500 series trucks would probably require it by the numbers, and if at all possible I try to make the numbers work, just in case...
Weight Distribution on Alumium Frame Trailers
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fried1765
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You really need a 2500 series truck for what you are considering.
the numbers will work out fine - right on the limit, but still fine. I'm just looking to shave a little weight where i can.
it's towed a solid 7k perfectly on only a weight carrying hitch with only a slight amount of extra shifting noticeable really - the little 3.0 liter really does fine. I'm not doing this daily or for a living and i'll be at the limit on a rare occasion, but i may as well account for it with the trailer i buy next. I've had trucks ranging from compact to 3500 series over the last three decades and the trailer is a constant for a lot longer than the trucks, so i'm looking for one that will work now and with the next vehicle, whatever it may be.
it's towed a solid 7k perfectly on only a weight carrying hitch with only a slight amount of extra shifting noticeable really - the little 3.0 liter really does fine. I'm not doing this daily or for a living and i'll be at the limit on a rare occasion, but i may as well account for it with the trailer i buy next. I've had trucks ranging from compact to 3500 series over the last three decades and the trailer is a constant for a lot longer than the trucks, so i'm looking for one that will work now and with the next vehicle, whatever it may be.
4570Man
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You could get a gooseneck trailer and skip the WD hitch.
ironically, 9300 lb manufacturer rating for conventional pull trailer, and i believe only 7100 lb for a gooseneck or 5th wheel... not to mention the trailer would be even heavier. plus, to get the deal i got i took a true shortbed ~5.5 foot bed so a gooseneck would be a no-go.
I'll probably end up going with a steel trailer, but i figured it's worth a shot to see if there's a way to make aluminum work. i'll just have to be real conscious about how much extra junk i intend to carry if i tow the tractor. as i said, i'll do what i can to make the numbers work, but the same truck with a different powertrain is rated for 12k, so it's not so much a safety issue as it is a drivetrain one, and I don't do high speed interstate towing anyways. we've got one interstate in the state, and it doesn't lead anywhere i normally trailer to. lower speed backroads are my thing.
Sawyer Rob
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A different powertrain (bigger hp) MOST times includes other upgrades with it...
SR
SR
LouNY
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It used to but I'm not seeing that as much anymore, in the half tons the axles brakes and most of the transmission are the same,
in the 3/4's the the axles and differentials and transfer cases are the same transmissions may be different brakes are the same.
Morning Wood
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I wouldn’t put a WD setup on an aluminum frame. It won’t hold up in the long run.
