Is Weight Distribution Hitch Needed For 2014 Ford Escape Towing 2016 Jayco 10SD Weighing 2000lbs?

Question:

Hi there, I just got a tent trailer and had few trips already. Drive experience turns out alright, driving were smooth. However, I am always thinking about the towing safety since I’ve heard a lot weight distribution hitch on trailers. I’d like to hear your opinion on if I need one. My towing vehicle is 2014 2.0 escape 4x has towing capacity 3500lb, the tent trailer is 2016 Jayco 10sd, dry weight 1640lb, fully loaded is 2000lb. Would you please take a look and see if I need to install a set. Thank you very much!

asked by: Hao Z

Expert Reply:

Absolutely!

Any time the weight of the trailer exceeds 50% of the weight of the tow vehicle a weight distribution hitch is recommended.

Since your 2014 Ford Escape 2.0 weighs anywhere between 3500-4000lbs depending on passengers, cargo etc and your trailer weighs in at 2000lbs a weight distribution hitch would be a good idea.

Now weight distribution hitches are only compatible with 2" trailer hitch receivers, so if you have a 1-1/4" receiver currently installed on your Escape you will need to replace it. If this is the case I recommend going with the Draw-Tite # 75782 which is confirmed to fit your vehicle and its 525lb tongue weight rating and 3500lb trailer weight rating is perfect for your needs.

Moving on to a weight distribution hitch, the correct hitch is dependent on the total tongue weight of your setup. Total tongue weight is the tongue weight of your fully loaded and ready to tow trailer plus the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your Escape. The easiest way to get an accurate tongue weight measurement is with a tongue weight scale like the # e99044 but there are other methods which are outlined in the included help article.

Since you mentioned your trailer weighs 2000lbs fully loaded and tongue weight is typically 10-15% of the trailer weight you should have 200-300lbs of tongue weight.

For a system that works with this range I recommend the Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control - Trunnion - 4,500 lbs GTW, 450 lbs TW # FA92-00-0450 which works with total tongue weights up to 450lbs. I like the Fastway e2 hitches due to their quality, and due to the built in sway control that does a great job of keeping your trailer straight while going down the road.

This hitch does not include a hitch ball so you will likely need 2" hitch ball # 40038.

I included videos of the products mentioned for you to take a look at.