Recommended Weight Distribution with Sway Control for Toy Hauler with 1,465 lb Tongue Weight

Question:

We have a toy hauler that has a dry weight of 9,320 with a payload capacity of 4,145 and hitch weight of 1,465 pounds. We pull this with a 2016 F250 Superduty. I see reference of a 2 point and 4 point sway control. I am correct in thinking I need the 4 point and the 12,000 pound?

asked by: Mandy

Expert Reply:

The difference between a 2-point and 4-point sway control system has to do with the amount of locations where friction is used on the system to limit and stop trailer sway. A 4-point system like the Equal-i-zer # EQ37120ET you referenced uses friction at the ends of each spring bar on the trailer frame as well as where they mount in the head. A 2-point system will generally just have friction spots at the ends of the spring bars.

A 4-point system will technically provide a bit more sway control but the most important factor to consider when looking for the right system is its operating range compared to the total tongue weight of your setup. The total tongue weight includes both the loaded tongue weight of your trailer along with any added cargo you might have stored behind the F-250's rear axle. Ideally this number falls comfortably within the operating range of the system you choose.

With a tongue weight of 1,465 pounds and a GVWR of 13,465 pounds (9,320 pound empty trailer weight plus 4,145 pound payload capacity) the 12K Equal-i-zer is going to be under-rated. This particular system features a tongue weight range of 800 to 1,200 pounds with a gross towing weight of 12,000 pounds.

With the type of weights you're looking at the best option is going to be with the Reese Strait-Line # RP66075 that features a 1,000 to 1,700 pound tongue weight range and a gross trailer weight capacity of 17,000 pounds. This particular system has a unique self-adjusting sway control design that actually helps to prevent sway before it even begins.

This system is designed to be used with a 2-1/2 inch trailer hitch with the adjustable shank # RP54977. You can still technically use a 2 inch shank like # RP54998 if your F-250 has a 2 inch hitch but it will limit the system's capacity to 1,600 pounds of tongue weight and 16,000 pounds of towing weight.

I have attached a short video review on this system along with the written installation instructions that you can check out.