markls8
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- July 3, 2014
- Messages
- 154
- Reaction score
- 0
- City, State
- Niagara, Ontario
- Year, Model & Trim Level
- 2015 Explorer Sport
Question?
I tow a small 20 foot ski boat that weighs 3500lb boat and trailer fully gassed and loaded. I have the 3.6 EB with the added tow package. Do I need a weight distribution hitch?
That's a good question, and I don't believe I've ever encountered a number given by Ford. My answer is no, you don't. But it depends on a lot of ifs. If you plan on trailering long distances, over mountainous terrain, at high speeds, and with a maximum payload in the vehicle, then you might want to consider one, but I would consider the 1500 lbs spread you have to be a good safety margin even without one.
I trailer a 26' boat, 4200 lbs, surge-braked, but rarely above 60 mph (well, never, so far) always short distances, with the vehicle virtually empty, mostly 25-30 mph through town, four times a year. It's why I bought my Ex. I use the ball straight into the receiver. However, if I were to take the boat to, say, Florida, I would be getting and using the weight-distributing hitch.
A lot depends on how you are using the trailer, and your preferred level of safety.