Recommended Weight Distribution System For 12K Equipment Trailer

Question:

Im looking for a weight distribution hitch recommendation for a 2012 Ford F250, 6.7L diesel. I will be towing a 12K equipment trailer, which will typically be loaded to about 8K and occasionally to approx 11K. Im estimating tongue weight is likely to be 800-1100 pounds, and was leaning towards a 1200/12000lbs WDH system. Any/all advice would be greatly accepted. Thanks,

asked by: John

Helpful Expert Reply:

You said you estimate the tongue weight to be somewhere between 800 and 1,100 lbs. Most of the time we find that the tongue weight will actually be around 12 percent and then you add the weight of any cargo being carried behind the rear axle of the towing vehicle.

Since the trailer is rated up to 12,000 lbs I recommend a system like the Strait-Line Weight Distribution w Sway Control, part # RP66130. This system has a weight capacity of 15,000 lbs and has a tongue weight capacity between 800 and 1,500 lbs. This also features a dual cam sway control that helps eliminate sway before it starts.

Since the adjustable shank and hitch ball are sold separately I recommend a 2-5/16 inch diameter hitch ball like part # C40086 and an adjustable shank like part # RP54970.

Many times we find that customers actually have a tongue weight that is around 15 percent of their trailer weight. If you are carrying 11,000 lbs on your trailer and use 15 percent for tongue weight it would be around 1,650 lbs and you would need a heavier system like part # RP66075. This is the Reese Strait-Line Weight Distribution w Sway Control. This system can handle tongue weights from 1,000 to 1,700 lbs.

I have attached a link to a helpful article about weight distribution and sway control you can check out.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L