Should I Use a Weight Distribution System for My 2013 Ford Explorer and 22 Foot Pontoon Boat

Question:

I have a 2013 Explorer XLT with the 3.6. I need more info on towing a 22foot party barge. Package weight is 3452 LBS. The trailer is a tandem axle with surge brake. I have the Class III hitch. Will I need a weight distributing hitch to tow this? I do not know tongue weight yet as I have not got the boat yet.

asked by: Bill T

Expert Reply:

As a rule of thumb, if the total weight of your trailer / cargo combined is more than half the weight of the towing vehicle, a weight distribution system is recommended. You may want to wait until you take delivery on the boat and use the information provided in the attached articles to determine the true tongue weight. Based on the figure of 3452 lbs you stated was the package weight, I would suggest a weight distribution system designed to handle 400 lbs tongue weight (TW). I have linked you to help articles about weight distribution, and also a link to our help article showing how to determine tongue weight.

I recommend a system like the Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System, part # RP66558. It is capable of handling a tongue weight (TW) range of 200 - 600 lbs, and gross towing weight (GTW) of 6,000 lbs. This system includes everything needed for assembly. I have linked you to the installation instructions for this system. You may want to determine the tongue weight before purchasing a weight distribution system.

You would want to purchase a Hitch Ball with a 1 inch diameter shank, which is sold separately, like a 2 inch hitch ball, part # 63845, or a 2-5/16 inch diameter hitch ball, like part # 63847.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L