Weight Distribution Recommendation for a Travel Trailer with 700 lb Dry Tongue Weight

Updated 05/04/2015 | Published 05/02/2015

Question:

I have a 2002 Ford F150, Ext Cab, Short Bed PU. It has a 4.6L V8 and a 3.55 Rear End. I am looking at a travel trailer that weighs 5,800 lb dry/700 lb tongue weight. My hitch is Class 3Hidden Hitch, 5,000 lb towing/500 lb tongue weight for standard towing. 10,000 lb towing/1,000 lb tongue weight with Weight Distribution. What Weight Distribution kit should I buy for my truck?

asked by: Tom H

Expert Reply:

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 a help article on determining tongue weight for you to check out as well. You will want the loaded tongue weight of your setup to fall right in the middle of the tongue weight range of the system you use.

As long as your loaded tongue weight stays under the 1,000 lb capacity that your vehicle has when the setup is loaded I would recommend the Strait Line Weight Distribution System part # RP66084. This system has a range of 600-1,200 lbs so it should work well for you. It also features the only sway control on the market that works to prevent sway before it starts. Check out the review video I attached as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C