Recommended Surge Brake-Compatible 1000 lb TW Rated Weight Distribution System

Question:

Hi folks. I bought and installed a Blue Ox SwayPro BXW 1000 and the Pole Tongue Adaptor BXW 4023, on my EZLoader double axle boat trailer. I needed a WDH because my 2018 F-150 requires one to pull the weight of the trailer 7700 pounds with boat. The trailer tongue weight is 800 pounds. After installation, everything looked good trailer level, truck level, bars flexed. It drives great. Problem is the surge brakes are not working now. I finally located the manual for the trailer and it says pg 7: WEIGHT DISTRIBUTING HITCHES Weight distributing equalizing hitches may not be used. The excessive tongue weight produced with weight distributing hitches must be avoided as it will reduce brake performance and could damage the actuator. Oh my. Is there a surge brake actuator that ALLOWS use of a chain-type WDH? Is there another workaround? Thank you.

asked by: Robert M

Expert Reply:

Chain suspended-type weight distribution systems do indeed inhibit the actuation of surge brake couplers because of the way the chains apply the the tension to the bars.

A system like the Fastway e2, part # FA94-00-1000 which is designed for trailers with tongue weights from 600-1000 lbs WOULD be compatible with your surge coupler and will still allow the surge coupler to actuate when the tow vehicle brakes because the spring bars can slide fore and aft on the brackets while a chain suspended setup will not allow movement. This system would be compatible with the pole tongue adapter you already have.

I've linked to a demonstration/install/setup video for the system I mentioned above.

expert reply by: Mike L