I've got a 2002 F-150 Crew Cab w/ towing package. I have been towing a popup camper with no problem. I am looking at upgrading to a hybrid camper and the dealer is trying to sell me a stabilizer package for the trailer tongue. The trailer weight is about 4500# with options, dry and unpacked. This is only 1000# or so heavier than the popup. Question is do I need the stabilizer or just add a brake controller? I have the 7 pin and the 4 pin wiring connector at the rear bumper. The package they are trying to sell is $700 and I know I can get a controller for around $100. What do y'all think?

 

You need the weight distributing hitch to haul that camper because its probably going to gross about 6k when its loaded and ready for a trip and put you over the tongue weight rating of your hitch. It will also be a more enjoyable ride when you get the hitch set up properly.

 

$700?? What kind of WD setup is it? I paid $250 for my EAZ-Lift WD setup about 7 years ago when I got my #5000 GVWR TT. They must be quoting you an Equal-I-Zer setup or maybe the Reese Dual Cam??

There is a huge difference in how it tows with the WD setup compared to not having it. While my trailer does not weigh much more then #5000 total, I have a pretty heavy tongue weight (#650 or so) and it does sag the rear of the truck, even with the overload springs..

The WD lifts the rear end backup and levels out the load over all the axles, so handling is much better. I don't have any other additional 'sway control' devices and don't feel I need them.. Those two hitches I mention above have 'sway control' built into the design of them, and are good hitches, but will cost more..

Mitch

 

You don't necessarily need a "stabilizer" but you should get a weight distribution setup.

 

Agreed... the sway control or "Stabilizer" is more suited to higher profile trailers in the wind.
Since you stated you have a pop up high profile it is not.

 

Just picked up bro-n-law stealth toy hauler(#2216). We opted for the Husky’s Center Line Torsion Weight Distribution Hitch and Active Sway Control System and the service manager price matched a deal my bro saw online. Also picked up the Prodigy P3 brake controller. The truck handled it fine and the trailer felt like it was centered the whole time. Some times you have to ante up for peace of mind...