WDH - Do I need one?
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Elder User
Joined: Mar 2011
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WDH - Do I need one?
Hi, I read on some random website that because the new F350’s have longer leaf springs that a weight distributing hitch is required. I plan to tow an enclosed race car trailer (about 9000#) and possibly a 30-40 ft camper (which I haven’t purchased yet so don’t know the weight) with my F-350 SRW diesel. I currently have a 600# rated WDH that I had for my V8 Pathfinder but now with this truck, I am not sure that it is required or even if a 600# WDH is adequate. I have a guy who wants to buy my 600# WDH this evening but not sure if I should keep it or not. What would you guys suggest? Also note that I would prefer to have an easily height adjustable hitch for using various trailers and my WDH is adjustable, but not 'easily'... at least not like an adjustable aluminum hitch. Thanks! JC
Post Fiend
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 5,158
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From: North of Salt Lake City
I had the same question when ordering this truck. I had a 25' tag trailer that I pulled with an Excursion for a few years. It really needed the Equalizer hitch or would weigh down the rear of the trailer a lot. It was also really helpful for the anti-sway features. Wasn't sure if the F350 would even need it. Bottom line, it's not absolutely required on the F350 but it is nice to have. The F350 has plenty of capacity but the trailer still sagged the rear a bit. And without the friction bars, I could feel the trailer moving around some. Once I matched the Equalizer to the F350 and the trailer, it was solid and confident. I say if you plan to tow any distance at speed, the WDH is still beneficial on the F350.
More Turbo
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 677
Likes: 118
From: Ontario, Canada
I agree with what Epic said, but I would sell the WDH that you currently have and get one that is more suited to the weight of the trailer. Remember, your tongue weight is gonna be 10-15% of the trailer weight, so for a 9k trailer you should have a WDH capable of at least 1000lbs. The anti sway friction bars are also important if you want a comfortable ride.
Before I had the trailer in my signature, I had a bumper pull toyhauler that weighed about 8500lbs and the WDH made a big difference! Without it, the truck sagged quite a bit more than I expected!
Just my $0.02
Before I had the trailer in my signature, I had a bumper pull toyhauler that weighed about 8500lbs and the WDH made a big difference! Without it, the truck sagged quite a bit more than I expected!
Just my $0.02
Elder User
Joined: Feb 2010
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From: Northern Il/Cabin in Wi
I guess my answer is why wouldn't you? For me it adds another layer of safety, especially the anti-sway part. I have it on my '04 6.0 pulling a 31 ft TT.
It is solid as a rock even in windy conditions. I will move to the '12 in the fall.
It is solid as a rock even in windy conditions. I will move to the '12 in the fall.
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Joined: Mar 2011
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Thanks for the advice fellas. Turns out that because I have a Reese WDH, all I need to do to bump up the rating is buy the 1200# bars for $200. Score! Luckily I even bought the extra long drop so I can accomodate the F350's taller stance. Double score!!
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mitchntx
All Things Towing
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Jan 11, 2007 06:43 PM
