What is the Difference Between a Rear Air Bag System and a Weight Distribution System

Question:

Thanks for your help I drive a 2006 Ford 350 Powerstroke Diesel 4x4 Dually and the Trailer is a Stealth FS2812 with the following weights: Hitch Weight: 1,354lbs Axle Weight: 7,629lbs GVWR: 14,000lbs CCC: 4,958lbs Total Length 34.1 feet Thanks

asked by: James Y

Expert Reply:

Basically, a weight distribution system moves some of the load up the vehicle frame so that the front suspensions bears some of the weight. Weight distribution spreads some of the weight from the rear axle to the front.

An air bag system spreads the weight across the rear axle. Instead of having 2 springs bearing the load, you now have 4.

When towing large trailers, air bags should not be used instead of a weight distribution system. A hitch and vehicle will have a Weight Carrying Capacity and a Weight Distribution Capacity. If the tongue and/or trailer weight exceeds the Weight Carrying Capacity for the hitch or vehicle, you should be using a weight distribution system. If the trailer exceeds the Weight Distribution rating of either the vehicle or the hitch, you should not be towing that trailer with the vehicle.

expert reply by: Patrick B

James

3/22/2010

Patrick B.

3/22/2010

That is a pretty healthy trailer. With a trailer that heavy and long, you would need a weight distribution system like part # 66130. This system is heavy enough to handle the weight of your trailer and it includes the Reese Dual Cam Sway Control system. I imagine you may need this with a trailer that long. You will also need a WD Shank and a ball to complete the package. I will add a link to all the 14K weight distribution shanks below. I would use a weight distribution system before I started thinking about air bags. The F-350 has a pretty stout suspension on it and an airbag system may not be necessary with a good weight distribution system. You may decide later that you want to add it, but I would try a WD system first. In case you do want to add airbags or a suspension enhancement system here are the kits that will fit your truck. You can use the Timbren rubber spring Suspension Enhancement System part # TFR350SDF. We normally recommend these for people who are towing the same load all the time or do not want to use air springs. If your load will vary or you want the adjustable suspension provided by an air spring, you can use part # F2071.