Weight Distribution Recommendations for 2012 Ford Expedition EL 4x4  

Question:

Expert Reply:

As a general rule of thumb, any time the loaded weight of the trailer is 50 percent or more of the loaded vehicle, weight distribution is recommended.

Since the trailer, at 4100 lbs is more than half the approximate 5800 lb weight of the Expedition, I'd highly recommend a w/d system.

The first thing you'll want to do is check the sticker on the hitch for the capacity when using weight distribution. It's likely higher than the 600 lb non-WDH capacity you mentioned, but you'll want to make sure.

Have you towed the trailer yet? How does it behave on the highway with crosswinds and turbulence caused by oncoming or passing traffic? At 23 feet long, you've got enough trailer there that the wind could catch it.

I'd recommend you go with a weight distribution/sway control combo system. The Reese Steadi-Flex system, part # RP66559 combines proven weight distribution capability with sway control . This system is rated for trailers with tongue weights ranging from 500-1000 lbs. With your fully loaded tongue weight at 575, your tongue weight would fall within the system's effective range, which is exactly what you want. The system includes a weight distributing shank, but the appropriately-sized trailer ball, part # A-90 for a 2 inch or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch ball isn't included.

If sway isn't a problem, you could just go with a weight distribution system without sway control, you could go with the Reese Trunnion Bar System, part # RP66541. This system also includes the shank, but the trailer balls mentioned above aren't included. The Curt # 17301 is a similar system, but I prefer Reese products, as Reese has been in the weight distribution business much longer, and I'm more comfortable with their level of experience.

expert reply by: Mike L

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