When to Use a Weight Distribution System with a 2-1/2 inch Hitch

Question:

I have a 2010 F350 Crew Cab DW and it has the 2-1/2inch receiver. I purchase the reducer to fit my hitch on my 36foot TT 7000lb dry weight. The sticker on the reducer says not to use with WD. Why is that? Not worried about the truck being able to handle the TT but will I really need the WD?

asked by: Eric H

Expert Reply:

Well if the adapter says not to use it with a weight distribution system it would have to be that they never tested it with a WD system or they did and found that it damaged the adapter or the hitch when used. A WD system does put a different kind of stress on a hitch and it's possible the adapter just isn't equipped for it.

Here's how to determine whether or not you need a WD system:

Your trailer weight (GTW) is more than 50 percent of your vehicle's weight (GVWR)
The rear of your tow vehicle sags when the trailer is hooked up
You experience trailer sway
Your tow vehicle headlights point upward
You find it difficult to steer or stop your rig
You want to tow to the highest capacity allowed by your vehicle's trailer hitch setup

I attached a link to a page that has all of the weight distribution systems we carry that will fit a 2-1/2 inch hitch like yours.

The best way to pick out a weight distribution system is to base it off of the loaded tongue weight of the setup when it is loaded and ready to tow. This figure also includes the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. I attached a help article on determining tongue weight for you to check out as well. You will want the loaded tongue weight of your setup to fall right in the middle of the tongue weight range of the system you use.

Once you know your tongue weight you will want to check out the link I attached that has all of the weight distribution systems we carry. You will be able to select your tongue weight from the filters to see what would be rated for your setup.