Recommended Weight Distribution System for 2018 Coachmen Freedom Express

Question

Question:

Do the hitches that allow backing up without disconnecting have the same sway control as those that you do have to disconnect. I am comparing: Pro Series 49904 Weight Distribution Kit Husky 32217 Center Line TS with Spring Bars I think the 1st you have to disconnect and the other two you do not. Is the amount or sway control the same with all? We will be towing a 2018 Coachmen Freedom Express 231 RBDS with a 2017 F150 with max tow pkg.

asked by: Susan D

0

Expert Reply:

When a particular weight distribution system, such as the Pro Series # 49570 referenced in your question, does not allow backing up if you use a friction sway control bar like # 83660, this is because of the friction bar design on the unit. These systems use a friction bar for sway control that works absolutely fine when driving forward, but is simply not designed for accepting the force of going in reverse. Keep in mind that backing up in an absolute straight line is okay, but you cannot turn at all when backing up without removing the easy clips to disconnect the friction bar.

As far as their actual performance when driving forward, both systems (that allow or don't allow backing up) will do a great job provided that it is properly rated for your towing setup.

The most important factor to consider when choosing a weight distribution system is the total tongue weight of your setup. This includes both the loaded tongue weight of your trailer, along with any added cargo weight coming from behind the rear axle of your tow vehicle. Ideally, you will want this number to fall somewhere around the middle of the tongue weight capacity range for the system you choose.

Based on my research, it looks like the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of your Coachmen Freedom Express is 7,500 pounds. A trailer's tongue weight should be 10-15% of its total weight. With this in mind, we can estimate a maximum loaded tongue weight of 750 to 1,125 pounds. I recommend using a tongue weight scale like the etrailer # e99044 to verify your trailer's loaded, as if ready for a trip, tongue weight.

With this range in mind, the Pro Series # PS49904 you referenced might be a bit over-rated with a tongue weight capacity of 1,000 to 1,2000 pounds, while the Husky # HT32217 you also mentioned might be a bit under-rated as it has a tongue weight capacity of 600 to 800 pounds.

I recommend looking at a system like the Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System # RP66561. This has a tongue weight capacity of 700 to 1,400 pounds and features integrated sway control that will limit side-to-side movement. This system does allow the trailer to back up. You will just need to add a compatible hitch ball like the 2 inch # A-90 or the 2-5/16 inch # 19286.

I have attached a video demonstration on this system along with an FAQ article on weight distribution systems that you might find helpful.