Weight Distribution and Sway Control For 2008 Ford Expedition Towing a 25 Foot Enclosed Car Hauler

Question:

I have a 25foot inclosed car trailer that hauls a 66 Dodge Dart. We pull it with a 2003 Ford Expedition. We have a problem with the trailer swaying at highway speeds and we found out that if we pull the car forward more add tongue weight it stops the swaying. Can you advise what you might offer for a sway control and equilizer system? The GVWR on the trailer says 3000. Thanks

asked by: Rob P

Expert Reply:

I would first recommend to check the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) on your 25 foot enclosed car trailer. It should be much higher than the 3,000-lb rating you mentioned. Most 25 foot enclosed car trailers should have at least a 6,000-lb GVWR or higher.

Many times adjusting the way that the trailer is loaded can help minimize trailer sway. You will also want to make sure that your trailer is as close to level as possible.

When choosing a weight distribution system and sway control you will want to use one that has a tongue weight capacity range that encompasses your trailer tongue weight when loaded and ready to tow plus the weight of any gear loaded in the tow vehicle behind the rear axle.

Trailer tongue weight is usually 10 to 15 percent of the gross trailer weight when it is loaded and ready to tow. For an example, if the gross trailer weight of your 25 foot enclosed car trailer is 7,000 lbs, 10 to 15 percent would be 700 to 1,050 lbs.

Using a gross trailer weight of 7,000 lbs, I recommend a weight distribution system with a tongue weight capacity range of 600 to 1,200 lbs.

The Reese Weight Distribution, part # RP66074, you have referenced, would be an excellent choice for your application if your tongue weight capacity will fall between the 600 and 1,200-lb capacity. This system includes the dual cam sway control system which prevents trailer sway before it can start.

If you decide on the # RP66074 system you will need to add the adjustable shank, part # RP54970, and a properly sized hitch ball, part # 19286 (2-5/16 inch diameter) or part # A-90 (2 inch diameter).

If you can give me your gross trailer weight loaded and ready to tow, including any load in the truck bed behind the rear axle, I will help you with the correct weight distribution system for your setup.

I am including a link to the installation details for this system and a link to our FAQ article on weight distribution and sway control.