Recommended Weight Distribution System for a 2014 Airstream International

Question:

The hitch is a 2.5" hitch with a sleeve. I measured to the top of the inside edge of the sleeve at 19.5" and the bottom of the trailer coupler is 18.25" I measured the current hitch I have, an Equalizer that came with the trailer, and that shank is 10 inches long, when installed no weight on the hitch the bottom of the hitch is 11" from the ground. So I'm guessing the BWX shank that is 15" would only give about 6" of clearance. Not sure if that is enough or not. Looking at the Blue Ox installation manual I can see the specs and based on the measurements I just took I'm thinking the drop is calculated as 1.5" and the only way to get that is with the longer shank. How does ball height play into all of this. By my measurement the ball is about 3" above the base of the hitch? From a previous measurement the truck "squats" about 2 inches with the trailer weight and no weight distribution applied.

asked by: Bill

Expert Reply:

In order to choose the correct weight distribution system for your 2014 Airstream International and your 2016 Ford F-250 we will need to find your total tongue weight (TTW). Total tongue weight is calculated by adding the loaded ready to tow tongue weight of the trailer to any cargo stored behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle.

As long as your total tongue weight does not exceed 1,000 lbs then I recommend using the Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control part # BXW1006. If it does exceed 1,000 lbs but not 1,500 lbs then I recommend the Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control part # BXW1506. For the hitch ball you can use part # C40030.

In addition to the hitch ball, if you have a 2-1/2" trailer hitch on your truck then you will also want to use part # BX88187. The frame brackets that are included with both of the above systems will work with a trailer frame between 3" - 6" tall. We have not yet personally installed this system on an Airstream International but I found some photos online of people who have so can confirm it will work for you with the included frame brackets.

expert reply by: Conner L

Bill

8/2/2018

Conner L.

8/2/2018

Assuming you measured the trailer while level, it does not appear that you need much of a drop at all. The vehicle as you mentioned will also sag a bit while loaded which will further bring down the ball mount so the Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution part # BXW1000 would be perfect for you. Don't forget the hitch ball part # 19286. The height of the hitch ball will not need to be calculated and there won't be any worries with the bottom of the shank sitting too close to the pavement either.