Should Weight Distribution be Used to Tow a Jayco x17z

Question:

Which, if any, WDH and/or sway control do you recommend for towing a Jayco x17z with a Ford F150 xl super crew?

asked by: Jo

Expert Reply:

We recommend using a weight distribution system whenever the loaded trailer is more than half of the vehicle's weight. From what I can find your Jayco X17Z has a maximum weight of 3,500 pounds. Your 2012 Ford F-150 is no more than a little over 6,000 pounds at the most so I recommend using weight distribution to tow your trailer.

When choosing a weight distribution system, one of the most important factors is to determine the tongue weight of the trailer. Tongue weight for weight distribution refers to the tongue weight of your loaded trailer plus the weight of the cargo that sits behind the rear axle of your towing vehicle. The easiest way to find it is by using a tongue weight scale # e99044. Tongue weight is typically, about 10 to 15 percent of the loaded trailer's weight.

There are a few systems that can prevent sway. First my top recommendation is a Reese Strait-Line system such as # RP66083. It uses dual cam sway control to keep the trailer straight while towing so it won't sway. This system is rated for 400 to 800 pounds tongue weight. For a 2-5/16 inch ball use # 19286.

And we have a friction type in the form of the Equal-I-zer hitches, # EQ37060ET, rated for up to 600 pounds tongue weight. It limits movement of the spring bars at the ends and at the head but does not use chains. It comes with a ball. A 1-7/8" Thin walled socket # EQ70-00-4800 is recommended for hitch ball installation.

If you can tell me your trailer's loaded tongue weight and the amount of weight you're going to be adding being the F-150's rear axle, I can make a more specific recommendation for you.