Recommendation For Trailer Surging With 2014 Ford F-150

Question:

We have a 2014 F150, super cab, 4x4, V6 Eco-boost. When we towed our 2015 Forest River Ultra-lite travel trailer for the first time we felt surging when reaching about 55mph. It felt as if the trailer was pushing and then pulling the truck! The trailer is 25 ft in length with a dry weight of 4750lbs. The total weight of the trailer was no more than 6000lbs and there were only 3 of us in our truck. Both the grey/black water was empty as was the fresh water. The trailer came with anti-sway bars, a system that retails for over $400, so it must be good?!! Our truck and trailer was set up at the place we purchased our used trailer from so we felt confident that we would have a great trip. The surging was so bad that my husband was feeling sick! The F150 Eco-boost is rated to tow 11,300lbs. What would be the best way to tackle this problem?

asked by: Judy E

Expert Reply:

A weight distribution system is the best way to control the pushing a pulling by the trailer you mentioned. I can't tell by the photo if your have a weight distribution or just a sway bar, but even if you have a weight distribution setup it may not be rated correctly for your trailer.

Weight distribution systems are rated by total tongue weight because the loaded weight of your trailer coupler and the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your truck account for that total tongue weight that a system needs to carry.

Based on the information you gave me, I recommend the Strait-Line Weight Distribution System w Sway Control - Trunnion Bar - 8,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs TW # RP66083. This system is the best at controlling trailer sway while giving you the proper support. This system is rated for 400 to 800 lbs of total tongue weight, so your empty or loaded trailer will fit well within that range.

This system is highly adjustable to meet your needs with the dual cam adjustment, the chain adjustment and the head tilt adjustment. I've attached a video of this system to assist. You will need a hitch ball for this system like # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch ball or # A-90 for a 2 inch ball.

expert reply by: Jason S