Weight Distribution System for a Ford E-350 Towing a Trailer

Question:

My father and I are wondering if we even need a weight distribution kit. We have a Ford E-350 16ft Cube truck. Were going to tow a 26 airstream. GTW is 4000lbs and tongue weight is around 500 lbs. With such a big truck designed for heavy load what kind of benefit would a weight distribution kit provide?

asked by: Eddie

Expert Reply:

The answer to your question will depend on several factors. What is the towing and tongue weight capacity of the trailer hitch that's mounted on your truck? What is your vehicle rated to tow? Does the rear of the truck squat dramatically when the truck is loaded and the trailer is attached? How much weight do you carry in the rear of the truck? Are you currently experiencing any drivability or handling problems (with the trailer attached)? The main function of a weight distribution system is to distribute a portion of the load from the rear vehicle axle to the front, evening out the load.

The Reese # RP66021 you referenced would be a good choice if the tongue weight of your trailer (plus the weight of anything loaded in the cargo area of the truck that's BEHIND the rear axle) is less than 800 lbs. I'll link you to an FAQ article that You'd also need a weight distributing shank. To determine which one you need, you'll need to figure out the height difference between the trailer coupler and the hitch receiver opening. The FAQ article I've linked explains how to do this. Once you know the rise/drop needed, use the link I provided to our selection of weight distributing shanks. You'll also need the proper size trailer ball. For a 2 inch ball, use part # A-90 or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch ball.

expert reply by: Mike L