Recommended Weight Distribution For 2013 Ford Explorer Towing A 17 Ft Camping Trailer

Question:

I have a question regarding a weight distribution with sway control for a trailer. The towing car is a 2013 Ford Explorer XLT 3.5L V6 and the camping trailer is Pacific Coachworks 17 UL. Which product WD sway control will be the best for these two cars? which system is better in terms of performance and users review? If you could explain the difference between the WD products, that would be very helpful. Thanks for your time.

asked by: Betty C

Expert Reply:

There are a couple of things you need to know to find the right weight distribution system for your 2013 Ford Explorer and trailer.

You want to make sure you select the right size weight distribution system because too heavy of a system will result in a harsh, uncomfortable ride. Choosing a system that is not big enough will be ineffective so you want to find the right system for your setup.

You will need to know the tongue weight of your trailer when it is fully-loaded and ready-to-tow. Add the tongue weight to any of the cargo weight you place behind the rear axle on your Explorer. I have attached a helpful article that explains how you can determine tongue weight you can check out.

You will also need to know the gross weight of the trailer when it is ready to go.

The main difference between systems with round spring bars and trunnion bars is that the round bars are attached to the head from the bottom. trunnion bars slide into the head and give you more ground clearance. They both perform well.

Two systems we carry, part # RP66560 and part # RP66084, both have the same gross towing weight capacity and both are designed for tongue weight between 600 and 1,200 lbs. When selecting a system you want to choose a system where your tongue weight falls close to the middle of the system tongue weight range. So if you find your tongue weight is around 900 lbs, and your trailer weighs about 10,000 lbs, either of these systems would work well for you.

For a 17 ft trailer I think the tongue weight would be closer to 500 or 600 lbs at max. If the tongue weight of your loaded trailer plus the weight of any cargo in the rear of your vehicle will remain under 600 lbs, then part # RP66558 would be a nice choice. Friction sway control and a shank are included with this system, and it uses trunnion spring bars. This system will work with tongue weights up to 550 lbs and gross towing weight up to 10,000 lbs.

For a round bar system with similar weight capabilities I recommend part # PS49901. This has friction sway control and features round spring bars.

You need a 2 inch ball, part # 63845, or 2-5/16 inch ball, part # 63847.

You will want to check your owners manual or with your dealership to make sure you do not exceed the towing or tongue capacity for your Explorer.