How to Install Weight Distribution System on Boat Trailer with Straight Pole Tongue
Updated 07/11/2017 | Published 07/10/2017
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Question:
I have a 2015 F-150 with the factory hitch, which will only do 5000 without a WD hitch. I have a boat trailer with a single tongue with surge brakes. The WD hitches look like theyre only for A-frame tongues. Is it possible to get a WD hitch for a boat trailer? My boat+trailer is ~5500lb. Also, any issues with a WD hitch warping my frame etc?
asked by: Jason S
Expert Reply:
As long as your boat trailer's frame is not made of aluminum you should be fine to install a pole tongue adapter to allow use of a weight distribution/sway control system (WD/SC). You may also want to check with the trailer maker, by providing the trailer's VIN, for their okay on this type of application.
Your F-150's factory hitch also must be rated for use with WD/SC; this hitch safety sticker will indicate this along with the resulting increased weight capacities from using such a system.
The three available pole tongue adapters we offer are shown on the linked page. Based on your boat/trailer combined weight of 5500-lbs your best option is part # RP3280 which is good for trailer TW up to 750-lbs. Do note that you are limited to specific types of WD systems when using an adapter and the adapter must be able to mount to your trailer pole tongue about 30-inches back from the center of the hitch ball.
In order for any system to be effective your loaded boat trailer must have at least 10% TW, meaning that if the GVWR of the boat/trailer is indeed 5500-lbs then the measured TW must be at least 550-lbs. You can use TW scale # e99044 to make sure the trailer is properly loaded; too little TW means more sway. We'll figure your loaded TW to be 600-lbs. You can see all appropriate surge-brake-compatible systems on the linked page.
A great choice is the Blue Ox Sway Pro # BXW0750 which works for TW ranging from 550 to 750-lbs. All you need to add is a hitch ball of the appropriates size. You can see more on this system in the linked video.
