Weight Distribution for 2017 Ford Escape Towing Camper With 160 lb Tongue Weight  

Question:

Expert Reply:

In order to choose the best weight distribution system, you will first need to know your total tongue weight (TTW), which is the tongue weight of your fully loaded and ready to go trailer plus the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your 2017 Ford Escape. I am not certain if the 160 lbs you gave is the unloaded tongue weight, but the tongue weight is typically between 10% and 15% of your trailer's GVWR. You are going to want to verify this by using a scale such as the etrailer # e99044 or by using one of the methods outlined in the help article on determining tongue weight I've linked for you.

From there, simply add on the weight of the cargo behind the rear axle of your vehicle - which is between 60 and 150 lbs in your case - and you'll have your TTW. The ideal system would be one in which your TTW would fall somewhere in the middle of the weight distribution system's tongue weight capacity.

Based on the numbers you provided your TTW could be in the 250 lb - 300 lb range, and if so I recommend taking a look at the Equal-i-zer # EQ37040ET which prevents sway instead of just managing it and allows backing up with the system on. It is for TTWs between 100 lbs and 400 lbs and is a no-drill, clamp-on system that comes with everything needed for the install, including the 2" ball, which is what I believe you meant instead of 4" ball. It is recommended, however, to use the Thin Walled Socket for Equal-i-zer Hitches # EQ70-00-4800 to help with the installation of the hitch ball.

I've added links to video reviews of these products for you and if it turns out your TTW is different please let me know and I'd be happy to make a recommendation.

expert reply by: Kyle S

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