Is Weight Distribution Needed for 8,000 lb Travel Trailer Towed by 2018 F-150

Question:

We are purchasing a puma 30fbss trailer. Empty weight 8143 with hitch weight of 1208 and max pay of 9995. 30’ box 35 length. I have a 2018 f150 13,200 max tow w/ integrated stabilizer and use a bandw adjustable height hitch plus I added airbags to the rear suspension. I’m assuming I don't need a weight distribution kit but rather just the sway bars? Would you please give me your recommendations?

asked by: Gabriel G

Expert Reply:

We recommend using a weight distribution system when the trailer weighs more than half the weight of the tow vehicle so in your case, with a 2018 Ford F-150 towing a 8,000 lb Palomino Puma 30FBSS I do recommend using a weight distribution system. This will ensure a level ride which will help you maintain control over your truck, as will the sway control.

In order to choose the best weight distribution system you will first need to know your total tongue weight (TTW), which is the tongue weight of your fully loaded and ready to go trailer plus the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your F-150.

The tongue weight is typically between 10% and 15% of your trailer's GVWR but you'll want to verify it by using a scale such as the etrailer # e99044 or by using one of the methods outlined in the help article on determining tongue weight I've linked for you. From there, simply add on the weight of the cargo behind the rear axle of your tow vehicle and you'll have your TTW. The ideal system would be one in which your TTW would fall somewhere in the middle of the weight distribution system's tongue weight capacity.

For example, if your TTW was 1,300 lbs you would want the Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control # BXW1500.

expert reply by: Kyle S