Can a Ford F-250 and Horse Trailer Use Weight Distribution

Updated 02/07/2017 | Published 02/06/2017

Question:

Hello, I am looking for a weight distribution hitch with sway control for my Ford F250. I am using it to pull a horse trailer, and was wondering if all WD hitches were compatible with all trailers, or if I would need to purchase a hitch that is compatible with both my truck and trailer. Please advise. Thank you!

asked by: Caroline

Expert Reply:

Your Ford F-250 will be rated for weight distribution so that would be one part of the equation that you would not need to worry about.

Now horse trailers typically are fine to use with weight distribution systems, BUT a lot of horse trailers are aluminum nowadays and we have found that aluminum trailer manufacturers don't like to recommend the use of weight distribution.

So what you are going to need to do is check with the manufacturer of the trailer, if it is an aluminum trailer especially, to determine if you are okay to use a WD system.

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.

expert reply by: Jameson C