Can 2013 Ford Edge With Factory Trailer Hitch Use Weight Distribution Hitch C17050

Question:

I have a 2013 Ford Edge Sel with a factory installed Class 2 hitch with the 2 inch receiver. I pull a 3200 pound camper with a 340 pound TW. My Edge also has air bags on the rear. I want to install a WDS. I have called my local Ford Dealer that I got my Edge from back in 2013 about this and they said no information from Ford about WDS add ons, only that Ford recommends staying within parameters. I have read some crazy things about this online like if I ad a WDS it will tear my Uni-body Edge in half and alot of other crazy stuff. So I ask YOU for help in buying if possible a WDS for my Edge. Will the C17050 work for me or maybe the 17001 or 17002? Thank you Old guy looking for help

asked by: Tom

Helpful Expert Reply:

Your Ford dealer was right, as Ford says nothing specific about weight distribution compatibility with the factory hitch on a 2013 Ford Edge. That said, I took a look at Ford's 2013 towing guide, and they list capacities for their hitches both with and without weight distribution, and the Edge's capacity for WITH weight distribution was blank, and the only reason I can think why that would be is if it isn't compatible with weight distribution.

So while I can't say with absolute, 100 percent, without a doubt certainty, an educated guess is that your hitch is not rated for use with weight distribution. Which means you could use the Curt MV Weight Distribution System # C17050 only if you also removed the factory hitch on your '13 Edge and added one that is compatible with weight distribution, the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver # 75992.

You'll want to make sure the factory hitch is not welded on; it is unlikely but can happen so you'll just want to be sure. Apart from that, your best option is to use a friction sway control system, the Reese Friction Sway Control Kit # 83660.

This won't level out your set up but will give you more control over your trailer as you are towing. You would also need Reese Sway-Control Bracket for 2" Ball Mounts # RP26003.