Is Weight Distribution Required on 2014 Ford F-150?

Question

Question:

Ford recommends using a WDH when towing a trailer over 5000 lbs but I am wondering if that recommendation has to be followed IF you are within all legal limits of tongue weight, axles weights, combined weights etc. I use a WDH when towing our new TT as the sheer bulk of it almost ....no...does require weight distribution to be safe on the road. My question is regarding my equipment trailer. It is at 6900 lbs and a tongue weight of 760 lbs. My specs Ive found on the Class IV hitch is that its rated for 750 lbs / 7500 lbs dead weight. Basically, Im within those tolerances. My rear axle is 100 lbs under max GAWR, only settles 1-3/4 inches at the bumper and the front end only raises 3/8 inch at the fender well. Tows like a dream....attributed, Im assuming, to the low center of gravity...very little air resistance etc. My truck has the factory tow package and Ive installed SumoSprings on the rear. Would you shake your head at running this trailer setup or is my thinking of sane mind?

asked by: Harry V

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

Thank you for the information you provided, and I'll start by telling you that as a general rule it is a good idea to follow the recommendations of the vehicle manufacturer in regards to towing. Do you HAVE to use a weight distribution system if you're within the limits of both your equipment and the law? No, but if it adds to the safety of yourself, your passengers and other drivers, then there really is no reason not to.

In regards to your specific equipment trailer, you mentioned that you have a tongue weight of 760 lbs and a hitch rated for 750 lbs. In this case I would highly recommend using your weight distribution system to increase the capacity. I wouldn't "shake my head" at your set up (and clearly, you are of sane mind), but going over the tongue weight capacity is something you should avoid. It will put stress on your F-150's rear suspension, even with SumoSprings, not only hindering it in the long term but also potentially causing issues with steering control because your tires have less contact with the ground. It may be fine now but over time it could become a noticeable issue. You are also putting stress on the trailer frame and hitch receiver. In short, you don't absolutely have to use a WDH, but doing so is definitely better than not.

expert reply by: Kyle S

1

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Answer 1

E track like the part #E19148 (5 foot section) would work well for what you are looking to do. People use E track for car haulers all the time and it works well. We even have a wheel strap designed for E tracks, part #EM58523 which will work great.

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Answer 2

With there already being a factory hitch installed on your 2010 Ford F-150, we do have an option to up the tongue weight capacity. That being said, there are no Class V hitches that we have available for your vehicle, so this will be a Class IV hitch…

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Answer 3

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 4

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

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Answer 5

In order to determine the torque rating for the lug nuts on your trailer you will need to know check out the chart I attached that shows all of the torque specs for all the trailer lugs available based on stud size, wheel material and wheel size.

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Answer 6

For sag from towing a trailer the best recommendation I can make is actually a weight distribution system. Suspension enhancement will help level your truck while towing. But the advantage to a weight distribution system is that it levels the vehicle…

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Answer 7

The absolute best towing mirrors for your 2024 Ford F-150 are the K-Source Snap & Zap Custom Towing Mirrors #KS69NQ because they slip on over your OEM mirrors for a great fit that minimizes how much road vibration you see in the mirrors. We had…

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Answer 8

The OEM prep package consists of 4 "pucks" in the bed of the truck that will allow you to drop in puck style hitches for easy installation and removal, that gives you a completely clear bed when not in use. The B&W Companion OEM 5th…

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Answer 9

The correct Roadactive kit that fits your 2023 Ford F-150 is the part #RAS3611-YHD. I really like the RAS kits as they basically don't have any downsides. You get the adjustable support, an easy install, no maintenance, and actually improves…

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Answer 10

The etrailer E-Track Roller Idler #e67HR is 3" from the top of the e-track to the bottom of the roller.

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Answer 11

The Bulldog Winch Ratcheting Wheel Tie-Down Strap #BDW20362 is designed to connect to a D-Ring type of connection point so you wouldn't need to install an e-track on your trailer. For your application I recommend installing the Brophy D-Ring Tie…

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Answer 12

You are correct that is a 3,500 lb axle. If you want a bearing kit the #BK2-100 you looked at is the right one. This comes with a #L44649 outer and #L68149 inner bearing along with a #58846 (10-19) grease seal. If you want a replacement idler hub you…

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Is Weight Distribution Required on 2014 Ford F-150?

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