Weight Distribution Recommendation for a 2003 Ford Excursion Towing 6720lb Dry Weight Trailer

Question:

Cannot seem to get a straight answer from the dealer where we got the Ford, nor the dealer where we just purchased a 2015 Prowler Lynx 30 LX. Specifications on the trailer are as follows: Dry 6,720 lb Hitch 880 lb The excursion is supposed to have a HD tow package, but at this point I am not sure. Attached is a photo of the receiver mounted below the bumper. I know this is outside of your area, but is it safe to tow with our vehicle, and do we need a WDS? Is the model WDS sufficient for what we need?

asked by: Chris S

Helpful Expert Reply:

Any time the weight of the trailer exceeds 50 percent of the weight of the tow vehicle a weight distribution system is recommended.

When using a weight distribution system with your 2003 Ford Excursion you would have the towing capacities of 12,500 lbs total trailer weight and 1,250 lbs of tongue weight.

Based on the dry weights you listed for your trailer you will need a WD system as your vehicle wouldn't have the rating for the trailer without it.

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.

Without knowing what your loaded tongue weight would be I would recommend you go with a system rated for 1,200 lbs tongue weight since most likely your trailer will be about that when loaded.

For that I would recommend the Reese Weight Distribution System part # RP66542 as this system has a tongue weight range of 600-1,200 lbs. Before you purchase anything I would recommend you determine your loaded tongue weight and be sure it does not exceed the 1,250 capacity of your hitch.

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