Weight Distribution System Recommendation for a 2010 Lincoln Navigator and 7,500 Pound Trailer

Question:

I have a 2010 Lincoln Navigator and am looking to buy a travel trailer that weighs in at 5,700 lbs dry, and ~7,500 if loaded to capacity. I know I need a weight distribution system for this trailer, but Im not sure if the standard hitch on the Navigator is rated for weight distribution. Do you know if it is? And if not, what trailer hitch do I need? I cannot seem to find a custom class 4 or 5 hitch for this vehicle online. Thank you/

asked by: Chandler J

Helpful Expert Reply:

The factory installed trailer hitch on your 2010 Lincoln Navigator is indeed rated for use with weight distribution. The hitch itself is rated for 9,000 pounds gross trailer weight when used with weight distribution. However you will be limited to the capacity of your specific model of the Navigator.

If you have the standard trailer tow package (with just a 4-Way flat trailer connector) and either 2- or 4-wheel drive the maximum towing capacity is 6,000 pounds. If you have the optional trailer tow package (with both a 4-Way connector and 7-Way connector) then 2-wheel drive models are rated for 9,000 pounds and 4x4s are rated for 8,700 pounds.

The exceptions are the Navigator L models. With the standard trailer tow package the capacity is still 6,000 pounds. But with the optional trailer tow package the 2-wheel drive models are rated for 8,700 pounds and 4x4s are rated for 8,500 pounds. Consult the towing section of the owner's manual for additional information.

For a trailer that weighs 5,700 to 7,500 pounds the tongue weight range will be roughly 570 to 1,125 pounds. You would also add to that the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the Navigator because the weight distribution system would have to lift that weight as well.

Based on the weight of the trailer your best option is a system that is rated for 600 to 1,200 pounds tongue weight. For a good system I recommend the Fastway e2 # FA92-00-1200. This system comes with built-in friction sway control and the only other part needed is a ball # 19286.

For even better sway control I recommend a Reese Strait-Line system # RP66084. It has dual-cam sway control which is an active sway control system that prevents sway from starting. You would just need the ball with this system as well.

And the latest and greatest is the Reese Steadi-Flex # RP66560. It has friction sway control at the spring bars as well as the head. This is one of the easier system to install and use. And it also just needs a ball to be complete. I have linked videos of all of these systems for you as well as links to help articles on weight distribution and determining tongue weight for you.