How to Set Up a Weight Distribution System on a Ford Expedition with an Automatic Suspension System  

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Expert Reply:

Yes, a weight distribution system is useful on a vehicle with automatic suspension systems such as your Ford Expedition. Automatic suspensions systems will adjust to ensure that the load is level, but they do not help distribute the weight so that the weight is distributed to all axles on the truck and trailer.

I spoke with our contact at Reese and suggested that the best way to utilize the weight distribution system and an automatic suspension system simultaneously is to first, start your vehicle and put a slight load on the rear of the vehicle to let the auto suspension begin to level the vehicle. Next, you will want to measure the distance from the ground to the top of the front wheel wells. Then you will want to hitch up your trailer and set up your weight distribution system according to the system instructions. Next, you will want to go back and measure the distance from the ground to the top of the front wheel well again.

As long as that distance has gone down any where from a quarter of an inch to roughly a half an inch, you should be properly set up for hauling that trailer. The reason you need that measurement to go down is that it is proof that weight is being put on the front axles.

After you set up your trailer like this once, you will be able to just hitch up and go from there on out. If you were to pull a different trailer or haul a different amount of weight in this trailer you would have to repeat the steps above to achieve the appropriate set up.

We would recommend the Strait-Line Weight Distribution System w Sway Control - Trunnion Bar - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW, part # RP66084.

I have included instructions for the sway control and a video on sway control installation below.

expert reply by: Jameson C

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