Weight Distribution System Recommendation for a 2008 Ford F-450 Towing 2007 Keystone Springdale

Question:

I have a 2008 F-450 pickup 4x4 and need a ball hitch and sway control for a 2007 Keystone Springdale camper. I dont think I need weight distribution as the travel trailer specs are: Tongue Weight is 755lbs, Dry weight is 6810lbs and carry weight is 2745lbs and 33 feet long. has towing package as well. I was told that I may not need sway control either but wanted to ask the experts. I have nothing other than the hitch below the bumper and square and round power. thanks,

asked by: Markus

Expert Reply:

Weight distribution is recommended when the loaded weight of the trailer is more than half of the weight of the tow vehicle. Your trailer loaded will probably weigh about what your tow vehicle weighs, if not more.

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.

Typically tongue weight is 10-15 percent of the total trailer weight. So on the high end of that range your tongue weight would be about 1,400 lbs when loaded. For a system rated for that I would recommend the Strait-Line Weight Distribution w Sway Control # RP66130. This system is great because includes the only sway control system on the market designed to stop sway before it starts.

For a shank you would want the part # RP54970, and for a hitch ball you would want the part # 63840.

I attached an FAQ on weight distribution systems for you to check out also.

For a brake controller I would recommend the Prodigy P2 Brake Controller part # 90885. This is our best selling brake controller because of how well it works and how easy it is to setup. All you would need to install this controller is the harness part # 3034-P.