Weight Distribution Set Up For A 2014 Ford F-150 Pulling A Trailer With A 5000 LB Dry Weight  

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Expert Reply:

Since your Ford F-150 has an 11,300 lb max towing capacity with braking and sway control built into the factory tow package you don't necessarily need weight distribution. Weight distribution transfers weight from the tongue of the trailer back to the axles to bring the rear of your truck back up to normal ride height. Keep in mind if you are pulling a 5000 lb trailer, as you add weight it could potentially lower the back end of your truck. When this happens the front of your vehicle raises. This affects headlight aim, braking, steering, and tire wear. I have a family member that just bought a 7000 lb camper and needed weight distribution but it was not the weight of the camper it was the tongue weight. If you are concerned that you will have too much tongue weight I would add a weight distribution set up.

I recommend Curt MV Weight Distribution System - Round Bar - 8,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs TW Item # C17051 and 2" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000
Item # A-90

Keep in mind truck brake systems are designed with a valve in them. Under normal braking conditions with no weight, a vehicle uses 70 percent of the front brakes and 30 percent rear. When setting up the weight distribution you want the factory ride height measurement, at the rear of the vehicle with the weight distribution installed and trailer connected, to be 1" to 1-1/2" lower than the factory ride height measurement with no weight on the truck. The braking system is designed so that when weight is added to the back of the vehicle the valve will allow more braking power to the back wheels for slowing and stopping a heavy load.

I have provided a link to a video to help walk you through the instillation.

expert reply by: Shane H

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