Recommended Rear-Axle Suspension Enhancement for 2002 Ford F-250 Towing Jayco 5th Wheel

Question:

I have a 31 ft Jaco 5th wheel 2010. I pull it with a 2002 f250 with a 7.3. My question is, while towing my steering feels light and tends to walk a bit what can I do to level the weight distribution for a more stable ride

asked by: John L

Expert Reply:

Generally a 5th wheel hitch will install in the truck bed so that the trailer's pin weight falls slightly forward of the rear axle center. This ensures that there will not be too much front-end lift (or rear end sag) in the tow vehicle. If the hitch/pin weight falls further back then there could be issues with steering and braking performance at the front axle from not having enough weight on it to maintain traction.

As an example, the Reese base rail kit # RP30035 in your particular truck will install so that the REAR edge of the REAR base rail will sit 32-1/2-inches from the edge of the bed (not the tailgate). In this particular installation has the king pin 4-inches forward of the axle center. The instructions for this kit installed in your truck are linked for reference.

You can gain some useful rear-end support by installing a rear axle helper spring kit. For instance, Timbren's jounce spring kit # TFR250SDE, which fits both 2WD and 4WD versions, will provide progressive resistance when under load, up to a 6000-lb capacity. These springs will stiffen your rear suspension when under load from the trailer but otherwise they will not affect your ride quality.
These install without drilling and they require no maintenance at all once installed.

expert reply by: Adam R