Weight Distribution System Recommendation for a 2012 Ford F150 Towing a 7,500 lb Travel Trailer

Question:

what air bag is available for 2012 ford f-150 fx 2 with leaf spring suspension or what else is available? I am towing a 30 ft TT 6000# empty load capacity 7500# load leveler hitch 10,000# w/anti sway bar. probably with bed loaded am pushing upper limits also 5.5 ft bed. 5.0 v-8 with tow haul accessory. truck pulls load ok I would just like to level out better.

asked by: Ron C

Expert Reply:

The Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs # F2525 that you referenced is confirmed to fit your 2012 Ford F150 2 wheel drive truck, but it would not be recommended for you since you are towing a trailer.

These kits are better for heavy loads in the bed of a truck and are not intended for towing since the air bags act as a fulcrum and unweight the front axle.

Instead you would want a weight distribution system properly rated for the tongue weight of your trailer. I can't tell if you said you already have one or not, but this would be your best option. Also, air bags and weight distribution systems do not mix at all, they tend to work against each other and cause handling problems.

Lastly, you want to be sure you are not overloading your truck. Your trailer looks to be pretty heavy so you will need to consult the owner's manual of your vehicle to be certain you are within capacity.

The best way to pick out a weight distribution system is to base it off of the loaded tongue weight of the setup when it is loaded and ready to tow, this figure also includes the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. I attached an FAQ on determining tongue weight for you to check out as well.

Most likely your tongue weight is at least 1,200 lbs when loaded. So for a system rated for that I would recommend the Strait-Line Weight Distribution w Sway Control # RP66130. For a ball you would want the part # 63840.