Weight Distribution System Recommendation for a 2013 Ford F-150 Towing 8500 lb Trailer

Updated 07/07/2015 | Published 07/06/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System

(6314)

$269.36

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

(2620)

$24.09

2" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000

(3870)

$21.40

Timbren Suspension Enhancement System - Severe Service - Rear Axle

(839)

$269.36

Question:

Im looking at the suspension enhancement product TFRTT1502D for a 2013 F150 STX two-wheel drive. This one has a capacity of 7000# and TFR1502D is rated at 6000#. How do I determine which one I should use? Im towing a travel trailer that weighs 8500#.

asked by: Matt V

Expert Reply:

Actually for towing a trailer as heavy as yours I have a better solution than suspension enhancement. Instead you would want a weight distribution system. Not only will weight distribution help prevent rear suspension sag like the suspension enhancement, but it will also move part of the tongue weight of the trailer up to the front axle of the trailer which will help with braking and handling unlike suspension enhancement.

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.

Typically tongue weight is 10-15 percent of the total trailer weight. So based on the weight of your trailer your tongue weight would be between 850 and 1,275. Because of that I would recommend the # RP66084 which has a tongue weight range of 600 lbs - 1,200 lbs and features the only sway control on the market that works to prevent sway before it starts.

If you need a 2 inch ball you would want the part # A-90, or for 2-5/16 inch you would want # 19286.

expert reply by: Jameson C