Do I need a WDH?

I have a 2009 V6 4.0 access cab with towing package. I'm buying a 2014 R-Pod 177 which weighs about 2400 lbs and is 18' long. I'm driving from Oregon to Arkansas as part of a move. We plan on 12 hour days driving as we are moving 8 dogs and want to keep the trip short. I've never pulled an RV before. I'm getting a brake controller.

Do I need or really want a WDH?

I don't want to spend the money unnecessarily (the cost of the R-Pod was forced upon me because of the move), but I do want a safe and comfortable drive. I've never towed before, so I don't really know what's involved in the WDH. I've watched several youtubes about how to install. I've read comments that it make the drive nicer.

I'm assuming once I get back to normal use without the R-Pod, meaning using my truck for shopping and hauling loads in the bed, I can disassemble the WDH, but then it needs to be reinstalled every time I want to use the R-Pod, perhaps with less difficulty that the initial install.

So without any knowledge or experience, what should I do, considering cost, hassle, comfort and practicality?

 

Properly loading the trailer should put about 240-360 pounds of tongue weight. That's not much. I would suggest a sway control system, even if it's just a friction device

 

Makes a world of difference.

 

That’s not that much weight. I have a 2009 v6 with tow package. I pull a 3500 lb boat and trailer a couple thousand miles a year and do just fine with out a wdh. I realize a boat is different from a travel trailer. Since it sounds like this is a one time trip I’d do it without a wdh. But to be sure take your trailer out this weekend an tow it through different terrain like hills, level highway and city. See how it tows and then decide if you should get a wdh.

 

I tow a rpod 178 with my 2008 with tow package, my 178 is 3200lb ready to go. I do not have a WDH and do not need one, I would add air bags to your truck or your truck will bottom out over every bump. I have towed trailers for 40 years and the rpod is one of the best, just take your time. The trick I tell people about backing is to put your hands on the bottom of the steering wheel with your thumbs pointing out, what ever way you want the back of the trailer to go move the steering wheel the way that thumb is pointing, make small adjustments and slow.

 

I tow a keystone ROV basically an Rpod. I use a WDH and Sumo Springs. It tows and rides really good. I would recommend both.