Weight Distribution and Equipment is needed for a 17 Foot Casita Behind a 2001 Ford F-150

Updated 06/01/2010 | Published 05/28/2010

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 2-3/4" Rise, 4" Drop - 9" Long - 7.5K

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2" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 7,500 lbs

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Question:

I will be pulling a 17 ft Casita with 365 tw and 2480 dry weight with a 2001 Ford F-150 with a 5000# rated hitch receiver. I dont have the hitch or ball. What should I be using for a weight distributing and sway control?

asked by: Richard

Expert Reply:

The need for a weight distribution and sway control system would depend on how much the trailer weighs loaded. With a trailer that small, I doubt you will need weight distribution as you are pulling with a full size pickup truck.

The size of the ball will be stamped on the coupler, probably 2 inches. You will also need a ball mount. The best way to determine which size drop ball mount you need is to measure your hitch height and coupler height. Park the truck on level ground. Measure from the ground to the top side of the hitch opening. That is your hitch height. Measure from the ground to the bottom edge of the coupler. That is your coupler height. The difference is the ball mount drop size you need. I have added a link to an article that explains this with pictures. I have linked to a sample ball and ball mount below.

With that light of a weight and the size of your vehicle, you should not need a sway control system. Make sure the trailer is riding level and it is properly loaded. The tongue weight should be 10 to 15 percent of the loaded trailer weight. Remember, you must adhere to the 5,000 loaded trailer weight as to not exceed the weight rating of the hitch.

expert reply by: Patrick B