Best Weight Distribution System for I-Beam Trailers with GTW up to 20,000 Lbs

Question:

I am looking for a weight distributing hitch/system. I have a 2015 Ford F-350 DRW and am going to be towing a boat/trailer with weight between 12,500 to 13,500 pounds depending on fuel, etc. The trailer is a new aluminum frame, with a surge brake coupler. A quick search shows BXW2000 and BXW2003 as the highest capacity options, but I cannot determine the difference between the two items. I cannot tell exactly how these connect to the trailer. It says frame height of 3-6, but is there a frame width limitation? Does it work on Aluminum I-Beams? I would also like to confirm what additional items are needed to make this work. It appears the ball is not included in these kits, but not sure if there is anything else.

asked by: Clint

Expert Reply:

In order to choose the correct weight distribution system, you will need to find the total tongue weight (TTW) of your towing setup by adding the tongue weight (TW) of both your loaded ready to tow trailer and any cargo stored behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle.

The average TW rating of a trailer is typically 10-15% of the gross trailer weight (GTW). An easy way to find this would involve using a tongue weight scale like the etrailer Trailer Tongue Weight Scale part # e99044. When choosing a weight distribution system, you will want your total tongue weight to fall in the middle of the weight distributions weight capacity. For example, the ideal weight distribution system for a total tongue weight of 600 lbs. is one that is rated for 400-800 lbs. of tongue weight.

The only difference between the Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution part # BXW2000 and part # BXW2003 is that one is for underslung trailer couplers and one is for overslung trailer couplers. Underslung trailer couplers have the trailer coupler on the underside of the trailer frame and overslung trailer couplers have the coupler on the top of the trailer frame. Overslung trailer couplers are far more common than underslung trailer couplers.

The Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution system will work well with surge brakes but since you have an i-beam frame you will need to swap out the frame brackets includes in the kit for the Blue Ox Signature Series Lift Brackets part # BXW4021 which works with frame rails that are up to 6" tall and 2" wide. If your frame rails are larger than 2" wide then you will need to substitute the bolts included in the kit for a longer set. The system comes with everything else you will need for installation except the hitch ball and for a 2" ball you can use part # 63845 or part # 63847 for a 2-5/16" hitch ball.