Choosing Weight Distribution System for 10,000 lb Capacity Deck Over Trailer Towed By Ford F150

Question:

My tow vehicle on the hitch reads 500/5,000 tongue weight/total trailer weight but with weight distributing essentially 1,000/10,000. Oners manual says basically the same thing. Is this model really of no use if the tongue weight is say 675 pounds. My deck over 10,000 trailer has 4 inch wide and eight inch high I beam any suggestion of the items in this price range which would work or is it no big deal to modify the parts which hold the chains or similar pieces to provide force to the ends of the rods? Thanks

asked by: Francis K

Expert Reply:

The first step in choosing the correct weight distribution (W/D) system is to determine the actual as-towed tongue weight of your trailer. Anything stowed in the bed of the truck behind the rear axle should be included as tongue weight. For best performance, the tongue weight of the trailer should fall as close as possible to the middle of the effective range of the system you choose.

The Pro Series Weight Distribution System you mention is designed to operate most effectively with tongue weights ranging from 750 to 1000 lbs. This is indeed a fairly narrow effective range. The manufacturer says that the effective range is due to the design of the spring bars themselves. If the fully loaded tongue weight of the trailer is indeed 675 lbs, the system you mentioned will still be effective, just not as effective as a system that has an effective range that encompasses the tongue weight of your trailer. For a 675 lb tongue weight, going with a slightly lower rated system like part # 49586 might be a better choice.

If your hitch is rated at 10000 lb using weight distribution, you will need to make sure that the trailer weight does not exceed the capacity of your hitch or that of the vehicle. To determine the maximum amount that can be towed with the vehicle, you will need to obtain the GCWR from the plate or sticker on the drivers side door jamb. The Gross Combined Weight Rating represents the maximum allowable weight of the vehicle and the trailer. To determine the maximum amount of weight that can be towed with your truck, subract the GVW (gross vehicle weight which is the curb weight of the vehicle plus the weight of any cargo, passengers and fluids) from the GCWR. The result is the maximum amount you can tow.

For example, depending on the model year and how it is equipped, 15,000 lbs is a common GCWR for an F150. Lets say that the GVW is 6500 lbs. Subtracting the two results in a maximum GTW (gross trailer weight, the fully loaded weight of the trailer) of 8500 lbs. This figure represents the maximum amount of weight that the vehicle can safely tow. Keep in mind, any towing system is always limited to the capacity of its lowest rated component. Also, consistently towing right at the limits of the vehicle will dramatically shorten the life of the vehicle drive train. Accessories such as transmission coolers like part # D13504 are cheap insurance that will protect your transmission.

Attaching the chain hanger to the side of the I-beam trailer frame will be a challenge. Your best bet would be to find a certified welder to box a portion of the outside of the frame on each side, so a bolt on chain hanger, part # RP58305 can be installed.

I have linked you to our weight distribution FAQ.

expert reply by: Mike L