Selecting a Weight Distribution System for 2002 Ford F-150 Towing Trailer of 5000-lbs Fully Loaded

Question:

Would the blue ox hitch be a good fit for me ? TV is f-150 4 x 4 355 axel and 5.4 l engine. l. Travel trailer is 3700lbs dry weight.Around 5000 fully loaded.

asked by: Mike A

Expert Reply:

Step one is to confirm that the hitch on your F-150 is rated for use with a weight distribution system. This will be indicated on its safety/warning label.

Next, selection of a properly-rated weight distribution/sway control system for your trailer requires that you take an accurate tongue weight measurement of the trailer in its typical fully-loaded condition just as it will be when towed. Trailer tongue weight is usually 10-15 percent of the trailer gross weight, but the type of trailer and where your gear and supplies are stored can cause the tongue weight to vary. For example, if you happen to have a toy hauler travel trailer, exact placement of your ATVs or motorcycles in the rear will have an effect on your measured tongue weight. Also, anything in the truck bed behind the rear axle will have to be added to your measured trailer tongue weight. So the best way to start is to use either a tongue weight scale like the etrailer # e99044 (or one of the alternate methods shown in the attached article) to determine your actual typical tongue weight.

There are other considerations when choosing a weight distribution system. Some systems use brackets that require a significant amount of mounting space on the trailer frame. If you happen to have propane tanks or other front-mounted trailer accessories you might want to consider the available access to the trailer frame. We do offer systems such as those from Equalizer and Fastway that use small brackets that more easily mount when space is limited. In terms of overall handling performance you might want to consider a system that includes sway control. We offer weight distribution systems both with and without sway control. The linked article will cover these and other considerations and help guide you to the best match for your application.

I have provided a link to our main page for weight distribution/sway control systems where you can choose options once you know your loaded tongue weight. If you wish to advise your measured tongue weight I will be happy to recommend some specific options suited to your application.

expert reply by: Adam R