Weight Distribution Recommendation for a 2004 Ford F-250 Crew Cab and Puma 30KFB

Question:

We recently purchased a Puma 30KFB. Previous to this my camper was only 4300lb GVW so I had no problem with the Hitch Class III. The new camper has a tongue weight of 1100 lbs so I upgraded my Hitch to a Class V 1,800lb tongue, 18000lbs towing. When I hooked up to it the rear of the truck squated pretty good, as I expected it would. Im looking at 2 different options, Helper overload springs or load leveling air helpers. I wanted to get a good opinion on what the pros and cons for the two are. I would like the truck to at least sit level when loaded and that is not currently the case. I have a BandW roll over hitch installed. I thought I would ask someone with more experience with the two.

asked by: Steven

Expert Reply:

Air springs are good for trucks that haul a variety of load types and sizes and will allow you to level the bed accordingly. Helper springs or overload types of springs are good for static loads that will not be changing often. But I have a better solution for this issue if the primary need is to level the truck when you tow the trailer.

The best solution that will give you additional benefits is to use a weight distribution system. These systems where designed to take the squat out of the vehicle. A weight distribution system by itself will also add a small amount of sway control but there are also systems with built-in sway control.

I recommend the Strait-Line system, # RP66130. This system is rated for 800 to 1500 pounds tongue weight and 15k gross trailer weight. Tongue weight in this case is the tongue weight of the trailer when loaded and ready to tow plus the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the vehicle.

This system also comes with dual-cam sway control that forces the trailer and truck to ride in a straight line. I have included some installation details for you and a link to our FAQ on weight distribution. To this system you will need to add the shank # RP54970 and a properly sized ball like # 63840.

Suspension enhancement would be my second choice. To determine what would fit I would need to know how the brackets on the hitch install on the truck (outside of frame, inside of frame, under frame) and it you have 2 or 4-wheel drive.