djtom

I have a 2012 GL 450 and plan to tow a 26 ft travel trailer. My tongue weight is around 500 lbs. Some say use a weight distribution hitch and others say not to. I hope someone can tell me the pros and cons of each. Thank you.

DennisG01

Pros and cons are easily found out by googling - there will be lot's of info out there on that subject. I'm sure there's info in other threads, as well, if you do some searches. But, generally speaking, the WD hitch will do exactly as the name implies... distribute the weight more evenly over the entire tow vehicle. Doesn't work very well with the surge brakes that most smaller boat trailers use, but you won't have that issue with your (assuming here) electric brakes. Is it necessary at 500lbs? No. But it absolutely can't hurt to use it, either, as it only makes things better.

Callisto1

I towed at least 10,000 miles over 3 years a 26 feet, 500lb tongue weight, twin axle vintage airstream. 2010 GL350. Without a WD hitch. Never had any sway or steering issues.We towed up and down steep grades, long hauls on flat highways at 75mph... Never a white knuckle moment. (Well except once when I blew out a rear tire and had to replace both with some crap tires... Another story.)
Dennis is right that WD hitch certainly won't hurt the towing experience. That's assuming you tow and then park for a week or 2. However, if you are moving campgrounds every 2 or 3 days, there's already enough stuff to disconnect and pack up and secure, and then go through it all in reverse at the next campground. The WD hitch was one more thing to deal with and honestly I never felt we needed it. Airmatic did a nice job keeping the ride level, and the GL never felt light on the front end.