Recommended Weight Distribution System With Sway Control For 2017 Coleman FQ Trailer

Question:

I have an additional question. I am worried about adding an additional 82 pounds with the WD and sway control. Should this be a concern? Or should this be ignored. Also, I was wondering about drilling holes in the tongue of my trailer. I would rather not do this. Does the cheaper option require me to drill holes for installation? How do the break pads hold up for the sway control. Some of reviews say that they fall apart quickly. Would it be better to go with a WD and Sway control as separate units rather than the combo?

asked by: Mike

Expert Reply:

In looking up your 2017 Coleman FQ online, it appears that your trailer has a dry weight of 3205 and a dry hitch tongue weight of 453. Based on it's length and weight, I think you are wise to consider a weight distribution system with sway control as I believe sway will be an issue and the weight distribution anti-sway systems are far better than the friction bars. With a lightweight trailer with a 21 foot 5 inch length preventing sway is just as important as correcting sway.

With a weight distribution system you want to focus on the total tongue weight when loaded. This includes the tongue weight of the trailer when completely loaded as well as any cargo behind the rear axle of your 2013 Ford Explorer. You want that combined weight to be in the middle of the weight distribution system's tongue weight rating so you have enough assistance without too much of a rigid ride which can cause other issues.

My recommendation is the Strait-Line Weight Distribution with Sway Control - Trunnion Bar - 10,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs TW, # RP66073. This has a tongue weight rating between 400 and 800 lbs. This system is the only one that actually actively prevents sway with its dual cam design versus reducing sway with friction. This system also allows you to adjust the tension to work with your driving preferences. I've attached a video for you of a larger straightling system to help with function and installation details.

This system will require the Reese Weight Dist Shank - 12-1/4" Long - 2" Drop to 6-1/2" Rise - 1,500 lbs TW, # RP54970, along with a 2 inch ball like # A-90 or a 2-5/16 inch ball like # 19286.

For a more cost effective option, you may consider the Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control - Trunnion # FA92-00-0800. This is a system that uses L-style brackets at trunnion bars to utilize metal on metal friction to reduce sway.

expert reply by: Jason S

Mike

2/1/2017

Jason S.

2/1/2017

With weight distribution, the total tongue weight is the number you want to fall in the middle of your weight distribution system range. Total tongue weight is the loaded trailer tongue weight (usually 10-15% of the trailer weight) along with any weight behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. This should put you in the middle of that 400-800 lb range for a system. Since you don't want to drill into the frame for the dual cam system, the Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control - Trunnion # FA92-00-0800 is my recommendation for you. The metal on metal systems like this one are very functional and easy to install. A separate friction system like the Reese Friction Sway Control Kit # 83660 will require drilling into your frame and uses a friction material on the inside of the slide bar. The additional weight of the weight distribution system will be distributed so it will do far more good than harm. Let me know if you have further questions.