Weight Distribution for a 2011 Ford F-150 and 6,300 Pound Car Hauler Trailer

Question:

Hi, I have a 2011 F-150 ecoboost and I occasionally tow my early ford broncos on an 18ft tandom axle trailer that weighs about 1,800 pounds. My Broncos weigh in at 4,500. I rally am not having any problems towing without a weight distribution system but I always look to do what I can to safely tow. Is this overkill to consider a distribution system and would this model # work for me if I chose to buy it? Also, my trailer when level is not way off the ground and is there a chance that the trunnion bars could drag the road on bumps etc.? I might be able to did up some pics of it loaded up if that would help.

asked by: Mike

Expert Reply:

Weight distribution is recommended if the gross trailer weight is at least 50 percent of the gross vehicle weight. The gross trailer weight in your situation is 6,300 pounds which is indeed more than 50 percent of the weight of your 2011 Ford F-150. Weight distribution is recommended.

To choose a weight distribution system you will need to go by the total tongue weight of the set up. This is calculated by taking the tongue weight of the trailer, when loaded and ready to tow, and adding to that the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle.

Tongue weight is usually 10 to 15 percent of the gross trailer weight so a 6,300 pound trailer would have a tongue weight of 630 to 945 pounds. Reese system # RP66542 will cover that range and won't brake the bank.

For a 2-5/16 inch ball use # 19286. Sway control can be added but due to the weight of the trailer you would need 2 of system # 83660 for it to be effective.

If you want to go with a dual-cam system then I recommend # RP66084 rated for 600 to 1,200 pounds tongue weight. The dual-cam sway control prevents sway whereas the friction style works to stop sway that has already started. You can use the same 2-5/16 inch ball with this system.

I have included some helpful links for you as well.