Choosing the Correct Weight Distribution System
Question:
I cant decide which weight distribution hitch. I have a 2006 ford explorer with 4.6L and class III/IV tow package to pull a gulf stream 2019 19MBS travel trailer with 420# tongue weight. It has a pass thru storage area in front that I will put about 100# of stuff. I will put about 100# of stuff in rear of Explorer.
asked by: Steve B
Expert Reply:
It sounds like you've got a good start to choosing a weight distribution system. One thing to keep in mind is the 420 pound tongue weight spec of your trailer is its dry tongue weight. Since you're likely to add more than just the 100 or so pounds in the front storage area in the trailer you're better off loading it and then finding its tongue weight. From there add the 100 pounds of gear stored in the rear of the Explorer. I'm guessing with the trailer fully loaded your total figure will be closer to 700 or 800 pounds, but that's just a guess. You're much better off finding the actual tongue weight of the loaded trailer. I've linked an article to help you with this.
Once you have the the total of the loaded trailer's tongue weight plus the weight added behind the Explorer's rear axle you want that total to fall within the range of the system you choose. I recommend going with a system that includes weight distribution and sway control like the Fastway e2. If I'm correct about your total tongue weight then the Fastway e2, part # FA94-00-1000, which is rated from 600 to 1,000 pounds. If your total is towards the bottom of that range you can instead go down in rating to the 400 to 800 pound Fastway, part # FA94-00-0800.
With either of those systems you need to add a hitch ball. Use part # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch ball or part # A-90 for a 2 inch.
Products Referenced in This Question
2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-3/4" Long Shank - Chrome - 12,000 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2-5/16 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-3/4 Inch Shank Length
- 1-1/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 12000 lbs GTW
- Class IV
- Class V
- Draw-Tite
more information >
2" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-5/8 Inch Shank Length
- 1-1/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 10000 lbs GTW
- Class IV
- Class V
- CURT
more information >
Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control - Round - 8,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 500 lbs
- 600 lbs
- 700 lbs
- Fastway
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control - Round - 10,000 lbs GTW, 1,000 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 700 lbs
- 800 lbs
- 900 lbs
- Fastway
more information >
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