Best Weight Distribution Kit for 2013 Ford Explorer Towing a 2500 lb Trailer
Question:
Hello, I have a 2013 explorer with factory tow package. My dry weight is 4500 lbs. Ford documentation says I can tow up to 5000 lbs with the tow package and a weight distribution hitch. I want to tow a loaded lite camper that will weigh about 2100 dry and 2500 loaded. What is the best weight distribution kit to get for this setup?
asked by: Martin
Expert Reply:
The key to choosing the correct weight distribution system is knowing the tongue weight of your trailer when it is fully loaded and ready to tow. You should also keep in mind that anything loaded behind the rear axle of your 2013 Ford Explorer will contribute to the tongue weight as well. I would recommend choosing a system that has a tongue weight range that encompasses the tongue weight of your trailer with its heaviest load.
The tongue weight of a trailer is typically calculated to be 10 to 15 percent of the gross trailer weight, but it is important that you find your trailers tongue weight. I have attached a help article on how to determine the tongue weight of your trailer for you to check out. You will then want to add the weight of any cargo loaded behind the rear axle of your vehicle to get the approximate tongue weight that you will need in a weight distribution system.
If the tongue weight of your loaded trailer plus the weight of any cargo in the rear of your vehicle will remain under 400 lbs, then Reese system # 66557 would be a great choice. This system also includes friction sway control and a shank. You would need to add a 2 inch ball # A-90 or 2-5/16 inch ball # 19286.
If you wanted to look into a more economical option, then you could take a look at the Pro Series Weight Distribution System with Independent Sway Control, # PS49901. This system uses an independent friction sway control and has a maximum tongue weight capacity of 550 lbs.
I have attached an FAQ article on weight distribution for you to check out as well as the installation instructions for both weight distribution systems that I mentioned. If you find that your total tongue weight will exceed 550 lbs, then let me know the total tongue weight so I can make a more specific recommendation for you.
Products Referenced in This Question
2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-3/4" Long Shank - Chrome - 12,000 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2-5/16 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-3/4 Inch Shank Length
- 1-1/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 12000 lbs GTW
- Class IV
- Class V
- Draw-Tite
more information >
2" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-5/8 Inch Shank Length
- 1-1/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 10000 lbs GTW
- Class IV
- Class V
- CURT
more information >
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