Hitch, Weight Distribution And Towing Accessories to Tow 12,000 lb Boat with 2000 Ford F350  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Unless you're planning on carrying a truck bed camper again, the Torklift # TLF1002-30 Hitch you referenced would be overkill for you. A Class V hitch like the Curt # C15410 would be a less expensive option. For a ball mount, use the Draw-Tite # 40331 with the # 19286 2-5/16 inch trailer ball.

Anytime the weight of what you're towing exceeds half the weight of the tow vehicle, weight distribution is recommended.

To choose a weight distribution system, you'll need to first determine the fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of your boat and trailer. To that figure, add the weight of any gear stowed in the truck bed behind the rear axle. I've linked to an FAQ article that explains how to do this. These combined figures comprise the Total Tongue Weight (TTW) of your set-up. The TTW of your trailer should fall as close as possible to the middle of the effective range of the weight distribution system you choose.

Usually, trailer tongue weight is 10-15 percent of the trailer weight, but boat trailers tend to be back-heavy, because the motor and fuel tanks are in the stern of the boat. The fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of your boat and trailer is likely in the 600-1200 lb range. If this is the case, the Reese Steadi-Flex weight distribution system, part # RP66560 would likely be ideal for you. Not only will the system provide proven weight distribution performance, but the system will also provide a very effective sway control function. The weight distribution shank is included, but the 2-5/16 trailer ball is sold separately as part # 19286.

A pole tongue adapter, part # RP58393 will be needed for pole tongue trailers (most boat trailers have a pole tongue, versus an A-frame tongue).

If your truck doesn't already have a 7-way trailer connector, you can add one using part # 118243.

expert reply by: Mike L

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