Weight Distribution System and Shank for a 27ft Arctic Fox Trailer and a 2000 Ford F-250

Question:

I have a 2000 Ford F250 HD Diesel. I plan to tow an Arctic Fox 27’ 8680 GVW 980 tongue weight. There will be a generator and other items behind the pickup axle with a weight of 250-300 lb. for a total of 1200 +/- tongue weight. To open my tail gate I need the RP3214 Shank and will use six inches lift. Would the Reese RP66130 weight distribution system be a good choice? For storage it will be backed into building that requires a 90 degree pretty sharp turn. What is the backup procedure, do I have to remove the trunnion bars? What if I just need to back up to make a U turn? If I want to the trailer and make an errand do I just unhook and remove the trunnion bars? Thanks

asked by: Jim S

Expert Reply:

The Reese Weight Distribution Shank, # RP3214, and the Reese Strait-Line Weight Distribution System, # RP66130, will both work for your Arctic Fox 27ft trailer towed by your 2000 Ford F-250. One thing you will want to keep in mind is that the shank has a lower tongue weight capacity than the weight distribution system, so you will be limited to a maximum tongue weight capacity of 1,400 lbs. Based on the information you provided, you should not have a problem with that.

Since you will be backing up at such a sharp angle, I recommend disconnecting the spring bars. The Strait-Line weight distribution systems use the Dual Cam sway control. Making that sharp of a turn with the spring bars attached would put excessive stress on one of the spring bars and that could cause issues with the system.

If you are parking the trailer to run an errand, I recommend unhooking the spring bars from the cam arms and from the hitch head. The spring bars can be stored in the trailer or in the truck while you run your errand, then you will reattach the spring bars when you are ready to hook up again. This will also allow you to keep the head attached to your truck. Otherwise, someone could steal the entire system off of your trailer.

The Strait-Line weight distribution systems do not include a hitch ball. For a 2 inch hitch ball, you can use part # A-90. For a 2-5/16 inch hitch ball, you can use part # 19286. I have attached a help article on weight distribution for you review if you are new to weight distribution and sway control.

expert reply by: John H