I've decided that I need to get a WD hitch, but I'd like to know if there are good ones or bad ones out there.
Here's my setup: 05 F150 FX4 (5.4L, 3.73 LS) SCrew. Trailer is an 18' open car trailer weighing 2000 lbs empty, right about 6000 lbs with the Mustang/parts/tools loaded up. Trailer is rated up to 7000 lbs.
I think my truck is only rated at 5000 lbs without WD.
I've been getting by without it for a year, but I want the added security of having it, not to mention I'm probably illegal if stopped or involved in an accident, right?
I've looked at etrailer.com and some other online places and I know my local trailer dealer has them. There's some complete Curt kits with sway control at ebay that look like a great deal compared to prices I've seen elsewhere. One I am considering is Item number: 310041779229.

Thoughts?

 

I would buy the Equalizer. It will give you weight distribution and sway control and it's easy to use.

vanman250

 

Do you have any sway issues? How big of a factor is cost? Is the car trailer a 'low rider'?

I love my Equalizer - does great with weight distributing and sway control - but I have a long trailer with height and more weight. The cost was just over $400. If you don't have any sway issues and just need W/D - then I wouldn't worry about spending the $$ for an Equalizer.

In fact, I have my old Husky WD (with a Reese anti-sway bar) and drop hitch (all you need is the ball) that I will let go for $100. The drop hitch is worth that (bought new last year and only towed once with it before upgraded to a newer TT). Just PM me if you're interested. I have it listed for $175 on Criag's List, but for a FTE Bro I'll give a discount you can see pics here -> CraigsList

 

Yes, I occasionally have sway issues. That's what started me looking into this. I typically cruise at 75 mph with the rig in tow on the interstates. My shortest haul is about 70 miles. My longest haul is about 450. Occasionally, when going down hills I get some sway with winds or when speeds push 80. I'm not broke. I want something good, that works and I'll pay for quality. But at the same time, I want the best deal.
I'm not sure what a low rider is, but I don't think I have one. The trailer is a Dively Economy flat steel deck open car hauler with a dove tail ramp out back (14" wheels).
The truck rides so good, I frequently forget I'm towing. The back end of the truck does not sag even with the bed full of race tires, coolers, parts, etc.
I like what I've seen of the equalizer. The $100 special looks nice, too.
I was looking for something rated at 10,000 trailer and 1000 tongue, but I don't really need that since my trailer is rated at 7000.

 

I 'suspect' much of your sway issues are related to improper weight distribution.

Simply RETURNING the weight to the FRONT axle that is being off loaded due to the leverage from the tongue weight will IMO go a LONG way at improving your situation.

When you drop your tongue on the rear of your truck...that effectively UNLOADS your front axle...giving you less steer control. Just because the truck doesn't sag...doesn't mean the front axle isn't being unloaded...only a scale can tell for sure what the effects on balance are. The WD spring bars SHIFT that weight from the rear axle BACK TO the front axle to return your trucks 'balance'.

Down hill in curves with cross-winds or semi's passing are the WORST possible scenarios for inducing sway.

99% of the towing miles sway contol is not needed...but when sway starts...it can rocket out of control VERY QUICKLY...

It is for those RARE occasions we haul sway control around with us (IMO). However having a properly distributed load is critical (again IMO).

I think starting with a WD hitch will greatly assist getting you to the point your load is stable under 'most' conditions...there are those 'special' outside influences on ANY towed trailer that can input your rig into osscillations...it is for those that you may want to add a simple friction bar...

And if your setup does begin to sway...application of the trailer brakes should go a long way at tugging the setup back into line...do NOT simply hit your truck brakes...you could also accelerate your TV to tug your setup back into line too...

Finally...check the speed ratings on your trailer tires...you may likely find they are only rated at 65...speed accentuates issues that may arise.

Good luck,
joe.

 

We have a Reese WD with the anti-sway set up for our 8K rig. It works out very nicely.

 

I have the same for my totaly loaded at 6000lb trailer, and I like it. Easy to set up.

 

yeah, your sway issues may have a lot to do with the 75-80 mph. It's a good idea to save the high speed for the car you are towing. Keep it under 70 and leave 30 minutes earlier, for all of our safety.

 

I'd highly recommend a WD to anyone and everyone... especially when the load weighs about the same as the tow vehicle. Equalizer makes a great hitch, I have the 14k model. You may want to get it installed and set-up by your local dealer or someone familiar with the manufacturer's recommendations. A properly installed WD is night & day compared to a standard hitch. Good luck

 

Thanks for all the advice, guys. I don't typically cruise over 70 mph, it's those hills that sneak up on you.

I went with the slightly used Husky unit that I was able to procure from Mark. Thanks again, Mark! Should be up and running by the end of the week. If I ever need to upgrade, I'll seriously check out the Equalizer.