Best Sway Control System for 2003 Ford Excursion Towing Open Range Roamer Travel Trailer

Question:

I have a 2003 Excursion, 7.3l 4WD, with Firestone ride-rite airbags rear only and am purchasing an Open Range Roamer RT310BHS. Base specs on it are UVW 9310 - GROSS NCC 2190 - NET NCC 1715 - TONGUE WEIGHT 1177. I estimate around 1300lbs of cargo in the trailer, mostly behind the axles. The airbags on the Excursion should handle all the leveling issues, so I think I am mainly looking at sway control. However, you are the experts. Thanks for any information you could provide to guide me to the best setup.

asked by: Greg V

Expert Reply:

When it comes to towing the Open Range Roamer Travel Trailer with your 2003 Ford Excursion, I agree, the Firestone Ride-Rite airbags that are currently on your vehicle should be able to handle the added weight of trailer and allow the vehicle to ride level.

Adding sway control to your towing setup is a great idea. Take a look at the Reese Friction Sway Control Kit, # 83660. This unit provides improved stability by reducing trailer sway which makes for a much more enjoyable towing experience. This is a customer favorite because it very easy and convenient to use. Since your trailer weighs more than 6,000 lbs, you will need two sway-control units, one on each side of the trailer.

If you find that the air bags on your Excursion just aren't enough to combat the sag caused by the trailer, send me an email and I would be happy to go over your options for a weight distribution system.

expert reply by: Leah S