What Does Weight Distribution Mean when Selecting a Trailer Hitch for a 2011 Ford F-150
Question:
Maximum GTW when used with weight distribution: 12,000 lbs. what does weight distribution mean?
asked by: Rob
Expert Reply:
Trailer hitches are rated in two ways. The most common rating is weight carrying. This rating is for towing a trailer with a standard ball mount that transfers all of the trailer tongue weight to the towing vehicle.
The second rating is weight distribution. A weight distribution system is used to reduce sag at the back of the vehicle when a trailer is attached and to transfer the tongue weight of the trailer to the vehicle and trailer axles, making the hitch capable of higher trailer towing capacities. A weight distribution system should be used any time the trailer weight is greater than 50 percent of the tow vehicle weight.
We have an article on weight distribution that you should find very informative and a video that explains weight distribution, see links.
To select a proper weight distribution system, you must match the system to your trailer gross weight, and tongue weight, loaded and ready to travel. We have many different weight distribution systems to choose from, see link.
For a complete towing setup for the 2011 Ford F-150 I would recommend the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch, # 75691, the etrailer.com Ball Mount Kit, # EBMK4, and the 4-Way Hard Wire Kit, # 18252.
Products Referenced in This Question
4-Way Flat Trailer Connector w/ 72" Harness, Circuit Tester and Wire Taps
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- No Converter
- 6 Feet Long
- Universal Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
etrailer 2-3/4" Rise or 4" Drop Ball Mount Kit - 7,500 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball Mount
- Fixed Ball Mount
- 1-7/8 Inch Ball
- 2 Inch Ball
- Two Balls
- Steel Ball
- Steel Shank - Gloss Black
- Drop - 4 Inch
- Rise - 3 Inch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- 6000 lbs GTW
- Class III
- Ball Mount Kit
- etrailer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class IV - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class IV
- 600 lbs TW
- 6000 lbs GTW
- 12000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 1200 lbs WD TW
- Concealed Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
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