Weight Distribution For 2018 Ford Expedition Towing 8,500lb Travel Trailer

Question:

Hi, Wondering if someone might be able to help. We have always had motorhomes and are changing to a travel trailer so I am new to the towing world. Due to our family size, we are trying to tow with an SUV and the trailers we are looking at are around 8,500lbs GVWR. We are looking to purchase a 2018 Ford Expedition and from what I am reading online, it can tow up to 9,300lbs but Ford’s website states that we need the HD Tow Package in order to do this. Does anyone here know if we need any specialty towing equipment or weight distribution in order to tow up to this weight, or just the HD Tow Package? We are full time RV’ers and would like to get the right setup. Aside from what is necessary, is there any other towing equipment we should be sure to get for maximum safety and tow-ability? We have not purchased the Expedition yet, so we have options there. Thank you in advance for your help!

asked by: Brian K

Expert Reply:

Since you haven't purchased the Expedition or the travel trailer yet it would ideal to find one with the tow package included. You will know capacity from the get go vs. adding a hitch and other components after the fact. It's important when looking at your towing capacity to be considering gross trailer weight rating including the weight of contents inside your travel trailer and the weight in your Expedition behind the axle to arrive at a maximum, not just the dry weight of the travel trailer.

Regarding a weight distribution system, I strongly recommended for this application. The main reason for this is towing puts strain on the rear of your vehicle (sag) and usually causes the front wheels to lose some contact with the road. See the included diagram for an example. The weight distribution system instead applies pressure to your towing rig to center and level the overall towing setup. The result is less sway and a safer, more enjoyable experience for the whole family.

A very popular option among our customers is the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System # EQ37100ET. This system does a great job using 4-Point Sway Control to limit side-to-side movement of trailer. The # EQ70-00-4800 is needed to install as well.

Included are video resources with more information on these solutions as well.

expert reply by: Patrick R