Weight Distribution System Recommendation for a Trailer Weighing 14,000 lbs

Question:

I have a 2012 F250 with 2.5inch Class 5 hitch. On the hitch it reads that if I use an adapter my gross trailer weight with WD s to 12500. I have read on your site somewhere that using these does not reduce the tongue weight/trailer weight rating. Is this true? and if yes, would I be better off using the Curt class 5 hitch for my truck instead since a 2.5 inch shank for a decent WD hitch would run l most the same price?

asked by: James

Expert Reply:

Manufacturer weight capacities must always be adhered to. If Ford says that you can't tow more than 12,500 lbs using a hitch reducer then that is what you need to use as a capacity.

Sounds like you are planning on towing a heavy trailer. Replacing your hitch and then getting a WD system would be one option, but it most likely wouldn't be cost effective.

It sounds like you are trying to tow a trailer that is heavy enough that your vehicle calls for the use of a WD system. Going to a different hitch won't change what your owner's manual calls for in terms of a WD system since those capacities are basically the final authority.

Your best option would be to get a WD system properly rated that will fit your 2-1/2 inch hitch.

I answered your previous question where you stated that your trailer was going to weigh 14,000 lbs. Typically tongue weight is 10-15 percent of the total trailer weight. So with a trailer as heavy as yours the tongue weight range would be between 1,400 lbs and 2,100 lbs. Which the only system we carry that would handle that high of a tongue weight would be the TorkLift SuperHitch Everest Weight Distribution System # TLWD1000.

expert reply by: Jameson C