Is a Weight Distribution System Needed for a 3,000 Lb Trailer on a 2014 Ford F-150
Question:
I have a 2014 F-150 crew cab with a 6.5foot bed and a 154inch wheel base. I am purchasing a camper with a dry weight of 2847 lbs, and a tongue weight of 281 lbs. It appears that most weight distributing hitches are targeted for weights much higher than what I would be towing here. Would I be okay to proceed with just my 6,000 lb capacity ball and ball mount?
asked by: David
Expert Reply:
In general, if the gross trailer weight (GTW) of the trailer is more than 50% of the vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) then the use of a weight distribution system is recommended. The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of your truck can be found on the white tag inside the drivers door jamb. From my research, this figure could vary between 6,450 lbs - 7,450 lbs which means even on the low end of the spectrum you would not see much benefit from installing a weight distribution system in regards to load leveling. However, you would see benefits from the sway control aspect if you choose a weight distribution system with these features. Trailer sway can be an issue on some lighter trailers so it may be best to pursue a weight distribution system for this feature alone.
If you decided to use a weight distribution system then you would need to base it off of your our 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 tongue weight (TTW) does not exceed 600 lbs then I recommend the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System part # EQ37060ET which is a top of the line option with four point sway control. We also have the Fastway e2 Weight Distribution part # FA92-00-0600 which only has two point sway control but is also more cost effective. The hitch ball for the Fastway system is not included like it is for the Equal-i-zer system so you would also need part # EQ91-00-6100.
I have attached review videos for you as well.
Products Referenced in This Question
2-5/16" Hitch Ball for Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Systems - 10,000 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2-5/16 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-3/8 Inch Shank Length
- 1-1/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 10000 lbs GTW
- Class IV
- Class V
- Equal-i-zer
more information >
Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control - Trunnion - 6,000 lbs GTW, 600 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
- 400 lbs
- 500 lbs
- Fastway
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 6,000 lbs GTW, 600 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
- 400 lbs
- 500 lbs
- Equal-i-zer
more information >
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