Weight Distribution Recommendation for a 2004 Ford F-150 FX4 and a 8.5x20 Foot Enclosed Trailer

Question:

I have a 2004 5.4L Fx4 Extended cab F150, 3.73 rear end with the tow package. I am looking to buy a 8.5x20 enclosed trailer 7.5foot tall. Its 500 miles away to pick it up and the dealer says I should get a WD hitch system, even to pull it empty. He approximated the trailer weighed about 3500lbs empty w/ 350 TW. I plan on using this trailer to haul 2-3 4hweelers + gear, I estimate around 3k-4k worth of gear in trailer for normal use, so trailer + gear = ~7000lbs. Trailer has 2 5200lbs axles so I estimate the trailer will be rated at 10k total load rating. When I haul the trailer 500 miles back empty, I would like to have the WD on there, but I really want the WD to work right underload. I do not know if I should get the: Strait-Line Weight Distribution w Sway Control - Trunnion Bar - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW or Strait-Line Weight Distribution w Sway Control - Trunnion Bar - 10,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs TW I am worried that the Reese 1200 lbs TW one will be overkill for when the trailer is empty and cause problems but I should only be pulling this trailer once while empty 500 miles. I want to get the right system before going down and getting the trailer. Also I would like to make sure I get all the right stuff ordered in one purchase. Thanks

asked by: Jeff

Expert Reply:

First, you will want to make sure the towing capacity of the truck is rated high enough for the weight you want to carry and that the truck and hitch can be used with a weight distribution system.

When choosing a weight distribution system, you will want one that has a tongue weight capacity range that encompasses the trailer tongue weight when loaded and ready to tow. Tongue weight is typically 10 to 15 percent of the gross trailer weight or even as high as 20 percent in some cases. You would then add the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the truck to the tongue weight of the trailer.

What I recommend is going with a system with a wide tongue weight range of 600 to 1,200 pounds like the Strait-Line system, # RP66084. This system also comes with dual-cam sway control and an adjustable shank. You will just need a ball like # A-90 for a 2 inch diameter or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch diameter.

You may find that you will not need the weight distribution system with the trailer unloaded. But if you do, it is always better to have a system rated too high than to have one not rated high enough. Worst case scenario you will have a bit of a stiff ride but nothing to warrant using a different system.

I have included some links to isntallation details and an FAQ for you.

expert reply by: Michael H