Equal-i-zer & Shank for 2017 F250

[MWBishop]

But I bet you'll only drop it on your foot once!

[Al and Missy]

The most critical thing, IMO, is not how much the rear drops, but how much the front raises. All of the steering and most of the braking is done by the front axle. Reducing the weight on the front axle reduces the friction force of the tires on the road with a corresponding decrease in steering and braking control. It has been reported on here that an F250 owner's manual said a WD hitch was required for trailers over 5000#. Search your manual for guidance.

There was recent coverage on here of a Ford advertisement that touted the weight carrying capacity of the F250 (I think) stating that a weight distribution hitch was not required. My opinion is that they were strictly talking about rear axle capacity and didn't consider the reduced load on the front axle that results from a heavy tongue weight.

The above is just my opinion, worth exactly what you paid for it. Several on here advocate towing on the ball on the heavy duty trucks, and some have reported good sway control from the electronic systems now being included with newer vehicles. I believe the true story is told by weighing the vehicle and following the manufacturer's recommendations.

Al

[MWBishop]

Picked up the 26U 10 days ago (love it).
At the dealership we tested just dropping on the ball.
Rear Squat: 1 3/8s inch. Front Rise: 3/8s inch. Both well within limits.
Given that, decided to just drop on ball and go and returned the WDH.
Towed 800 miles home in storms, 30mph gusty crosswinds, and heavy traffic.
Sure there's a little buffeting from time to time, but no hint of sway.
All in all the F250 managed the 26U wonderfully.

[woodfox45]

Go to etrailer.com they sell a 2 1/2" shank with different length drop that way you won't need that 2" sleeve .

[Moflash]

We have used a 10,000 Equilizer 4 point and it is more than enough for our 28ft you do not need the 12000.Get the long shank as you will need it with the new Superduty as it is 4 inches higher than the 2016 it replaced.The 9 inch shank will have multiple holes for a perfect leveling of your trailer.Dial it all in and you will have a great combination! We have had a 2012 F350 ,2015 F350 and just took delivery of a 2017 F350.I added a Airsafe hitch 4 years ago that lets the trailer ride smoothly and eliminates the jolts of pulling a trailer with a WD hitch setup and it has been the perfect setup for us.