Weight Distribution for a 2017 Ford F-150 and 4,400 Pound Trailer

Updated 08/01/2017 | Published 07/30/2017

Products Featured in This Question

2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-3/4" Long Shank - Chrome - 12,000 lbs

(2600)

$25.23

Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 6K GTW, 600 TW

(235)

$700.74

Question:

I have a 2017 F-150 XL with 3.5L V6 non-ecoboost and trailer tow package. The truck is rated for a 7600 lb. trailer with a non-weight distributed tongue weight of 400 or 500 lbs. I want the capability of towing a U-Haul trailer with a GVW of 4400 lb., but I also need to haul a 1,500 lb. fishing boat trailer that will likely not require weight distribution. Is the EQ37121ET the proper size for my truck without being too large? Is is possible to use the hitch without the spring bars attached to haul the small boat trailer? Id like to avoid buying multiple hitches. Thanks!

asked by: Dan

Expert Reply:

First you will need to make sure that the trailer hitch on your 2017 Ford F-150 is rated for use with weight distribution. There should be a separate capacity listed when using weight distribution. I am certain that it is but it never hurts to make sure.

For a trailer with a gross weight of 4,400 pounds that would put the tongue weight at 440 to 660 pounds. You also have to add in the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. Based on these numbers Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution w/ 4-Point Sway Control - No Shank - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW Item # EQ37121ET is rated far too heavy.

Since Equal-I-zer systems go from 600 to 1,000 pounds there isn't a system in that brand that is ideal for the trailer but there are other options. I recommend Reese Weight Distribution System w Sway Control # RP66558. It is rated for up to 600 pounds tongue weight. The only other part needed is a ball, # 19286.

You can also tow the boat trailer using just the shank, head, and ball from this system.

expert reply by: Michael H