Weight Distribution/Sway Control for 5700 lb Travel Trailer

Question:

Weight Distribution Hitch? I have a 2010 Expedition to pull a 27tf camper 5,700lb

asked by: Pete

Expert Reply:

For a camper that size, I'd highly recommend a weight distribution system with an integrated sway control component. Because of their high sides, travel trailers are very susceptible to trailer sway caused by crosswinds and turbulence from passing/oncoming traffic, which makes travel uncomfortable at best or downright dangerous at worst.

To determine which system is right for your needs, you'll want to find the tongue weight of your travel trailer when it's fully loaded up as it would be when you tow. To that weight, add the weight of anything stowed in the cargo area of the tow vehicle behind the rear axle. I'll link to an article that lists a few ways of doing this.

If the 5700 lb figure you provided represents the weight of the travel trailer when fully loaded, its tongue weight would range from around 550-900 lbs.

If that's the case, the Equal-i-zer # EQ37100ET which is compatible with trailers that have 600-1000 lbs of tongue weight would be ideal. If the tongue weight is between 800-1200 lbs, use the higher-rated # EQ37120ET. The Equal-i-zer system provides highly effective weight distribution and sway control for moderate to severe trailer sway.

Both systems include a 2-5/16 inch trailer ball, but a 1-7/8 thin walled socket is needed to install the ball. If you don't have one or can't borrow one, we offer them as part # EQ70-00-4800.