Buying Used; How do I know if it has a WDH?

[audiodane]

Hey folks,

Please go easy on me, I'm quite new to this. We're about to move up to an expedition el from an odyssey so that we can get a camper.. I have figured out enough to look up the VIN to ensure the one we buy has the HD Tow Package...

But I am really struggling with the WDH bit. Is this is factory option that I would see in the VIN-lookup factory install options? Looking at VIN information I can't find anything other than whether or not it has the HD Tow Package. Is this always an aftermarket installation?

I don't want to spend a bunch on a quality used expedition el and then have to turn around and spend another $800+ on a WDH if I end up needing one. (We have not yet selected our camper; we plan to rent a few and try them out before deciding. But we need a tow vehicle first...) So I'm trying to learn what I can about WDH's but am struggling to find a resource for newbies like myself...

Any guidance or pointing me into the right direction here would be vastly appreciated.

EDIT: Okay some more searching and I was led to eTrailers; I plugged in a 2012 (random year) expedition and it led me to this WDH.. (model EQ37100ET; I can't post a link) ... I was under the impression that this was a frame-installed thing. I didn't know it was just a special kind of hitch. But, it is still over $500! I guess that'll just depend on the camper we get... ?

Thanks in advance..
..dane

 

[DF5.4]

It looks like you figured that part out. When you get your camper work the WDH into the deal. Don't settle for the minimum needed for the camper you buy. You can transfer it to any new camper you get as you upgrade.

 

[cullinan18]

Everyone will have their own opinion on WDH (and there are multiple threads here about them ), but until the wife shot me down, I was looking at one of these Andersen No Sway WDH:
https://smile.amazon.com/Andersen-3...sway+hitch&dpPl=1&dpID=31Cihc6ir3L&ref=plSrch

 

[shane_th_ee]

How big of a trailer are you considering? We have one of these https://www.amazon.com/Eaz-Lift-Wei...+hitch+kit&dpPl=1&dpID=413gEYdbHEL&ref=plSrch

It works just fine, but our trailer is only a little over 22’ long and is at ~15% tongue weight. Which is to say we don’t really need a fancy sway control setup...

 

[audiodane]

@shane_th_ee We don't have one yet, and will in all likelihood get a popup... Now that I better understand what a WDH is, I'll likely wait and see...

 

[John Christopher]

@shane_th_ee We don't have one yet, and will in all likelihood get a popup... Now that I better understand what a WDH is, I'll likely wait and see...

An Expedition with the tow package can take up to 600 lbs on the hitch. If you are only getting a popup the truck won't even know it's there. I tow a 5000 lb boat with no issues. You won't need a WDH.

 

[audiodane]

@John Christopher so there are some popups that push close to 4500lbs loaded ... add 1000lbs of people, luggage, and gas in the vehicle and we're getting close to the 6000lb tow limit. But I agree with you, I'll wait on a WDH until I feel the need to invest in one..

 

[ManUpOrShutUp]

If you're buying/considering a used trailer it's also a good idea to wait as a WDH is often included w/ the trailer, especially if buying from a dealer.

 

[johnboneske]

Get an equalizer E4 WDH(they have sway control built in) and a Prodigy Brake controller.

Don't skimp on safety. Why spend all that money on your new SUV and camper, to be a tight ass on safety? I have both the E4 and brake controller and.it helps tow like a dream!

 

[johnboneske]

If you get a pop up there is no point to a WDH. Need a brake controller though.

 

[coolzzy]

What year expedition are you considering? The 15-17s have the option of the integrated brake controller which is included in the HD tow package but can be added if not equipped by snapping the module into the dash and having a dealer program it to the truck. Then you'll just need a 7 pin connector wired in. But if it were me I'd just limit my search to vehicles with HD tow package, since prior to 15, an EL could have 3.31 gears or 3.73 gears and you want 3.73 for towing. 15-17 ELs all had 3.73 gears with the ecoboost engine but may or may not have HD tow. If they have the round 7 pin connector on the hitch, they have HD tow package.

 

[JExpedition07]

Here is the sticker on my hitch on the 2007, you are fine without a WDH up to 6,000 pounds, otherwise not needed. beyond that the squat kicks in and it helps.

 

[cekkk]

A weight distribution hitch keeps proper weight on the front axle of the tow vehicle. So, if you've got a thousand pounds of tongue weight on an Expedition, you will need a weight distribution hitch for sure.

The first 18 wheeler that passes you on the interstate will let you know whether or not you want sway control. To begin with I would go with an Equalizer hitch. Anderson's are also very good. But the important thing with a weight distribution hitch is to have it set up properly, something not a majority of RV dealers are capable of doing for you.

 

[johnboneske]

A weight distribution hitch keeps proper weight on the front axle of the tow vehicle. So, if you've got a thousand pounds of tongue weight on an Expedition, you will need a weight distribution hitch for sure.

The first 18 wheeler that passes you on the interstate will let you know whether or not you want sway control. To begin with I would go with an Equalizer hitch. Anderson's are also very good. But the important thing with a weight distribution hitch is to have it set up properly, something not a majority of RV dealers are capable of doing for you.

+1 on an Equalizer. Get the E4. You will be glad you did.