Recommended Weight Distribution Hitch for Towing a Riverside RV Retro177SE

Question:

I have a 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac 4wd with the 4.6l V-8 engine and tow package. It has a GVWR of 6,280 lbs and a load carrying capacity of 1,120 lbs. It can tow up to 5,000 pounds without a weight distribution hitch and 7,200 lbs with one IIRC. We just purchased a 2017 Riverside Retro 177SE with a GVWR of 3,500 lbs and a TW of 420 lbs. I was planning to purchase the Reese Straight line hitch RP66072 before I learned I needed to take into account the weight of items in the bed of the truck behind the axle. Would item number RP66073 with the TW capacity of 800 lbs work or should I look for a weight distribution hitch with a higher TW capacity? I doubt I would ever carry 500 of gear in the back of the truck and some of that would sit ahead of the rear axle.

asked by: Jerry M

Helpful Expert Reply:

I would be happy to help you. A weight distribution hitch is only going to be affected by the tongue weight of your trailer so that is the only number you will want to account for when determining what system you need. Since your 2017 Riverside Retro 177SE has a GVWR of 3,500 lbs and a TW of 420 lbs. I recommend the Reese Straight Line item # RP66072 you referenced. This system has a tongue weight range of 200 lbs - 600 lbs which will be perfect for your trailer. You will also need the item # A-90 which is a 2" hitch ball or the item # C40030 which is a 2-5/16" hitch ball. The item # RP66072 you were looking at does not include the necessary shank to connect to your Sport Trac. If you do not have one you will want the item # RP66082 which includes the 2" shank.

It looks like space on your Retro trailer's tongue is going to be tight. If you do not have enough room for the brackets you will need to use the Chain Hangers for Reese Weight Distribution Systems item # RP58305.

Item # RP66073 is going to be overrated for your trailer's weight. This will provide a stiff uncomfortable feeling when you are towing your trailer.

I also recommend the Classic Accessories Tow Bar and Weight Distribution Tote item # CA80113. This heavy duty bag is perfect for storing your weight distributing hitch. It is 36" x 11" Wide x 8" Tall and has padding that prevents damage to your hitch and prevents dings to your vehicle's cargo area from shifting gear.