What Does Weight Distribution Mean when Selecting a Trailer Hitch for a 2011 Ford F-150

Updated 10/06/2011 | Published 10/04/2011

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class IV - 2"

(320)

$155.27

etrailer 2-3/4" Rise or 4" Drop Ball Mount Kit - 7,500 lbs

(1378)

$109.64

Question:

Maximum GTW when used with weight distribution: 12,000 lbs. what does weight distribution mean?

asked by: Rob

Expert Reply:

Trailer hitches are rated in two ways. The most common rating is weight carrying. This rating is for towing a trailer with a standard ball mount that transfers all of the trailer tongue weight to the towing vehicle.

The second rating is weight distribution. A weight distribution system is used to reduce sag at the back of the vehicle when a trailer is attached and to transfer the tongue weight of the trailer to the vehicle and trailer axles, making the hitch capable of higher trailer towing capacities. A weight distribution system should be used any time the trailer weight is greater than 50 percent of the tow vehicle weight.

We have an article on weight distribution that you should find very informative and a video that explains weight distribution, see links.

To select a proper weight distribution system, you must match the system to your trailer gross weight, and tongue weight, loaded and ready to travel. We have many different weight distribution systems to choose from, see link.

For a complete towing setup for the 2011 Ford F-150 I would recommend the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch, # 75691, the etrailer.com Ball Mount Kit, # EBMK4, and the 4-Way Hard Wire Kit, # 18252.

expert reply by: Robert G