Trailer Sways Above 40-50 Miles Per Hour
Question:
Hello, I have a question regarding my double snowmobile trailer recently converted to a ultility trailer by adding sides and gate. At speeds of 40 or so the trailer sways side to side. After looking into the issue I followed the rules for placement of the axle on the trailer. The axle according to my measurements is centered at 4 feet. Should the axle be mounted 32 inches from the rear of the trailer if the total measurement of the trailer bed is eight feet. Could the cause of the sway be caused by the axle being placed in the center at 4 feet where it is. I purchased the trailer with the axle mounted. Was the axle mounted in this manner because of it is actually a snowmobile trailer? Please provide some advise... Thanks
asked by: joe
Expert Reply:
If a trailer is swaying exclusively at certain speeds, rather than in response to passing traffic or gusts of wind, three possible culprits come immediately to mind.
First would be the loading of the trailer. If the trailer has insufficient tongue weight (not enough weight at the front of the trailer) sway can be caused. Try loading the trailer so that more of the weight is forward of the trailer axle. Secondly, a bent axle can cause the sway you are experiencing. This might not be very noticeable at slower speeds, but can become more pronounced at higher speed. Finally, make sure that the tires and wheels are in good condition. A bent wheel or improperly inflated tire can cause sway that would be sensitive to higher speed.
I would not suspect the placement of the axle.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Single-Axle Trailer Hanger Kit for Double-Eye Springs - 3-1/4" Front, 7/8" Rear
- Trailer Suspension Parts
- Hangers
- Suspension Kits
- Boat Trailer
- Camper
- Car Hauler
- Snowmobile Trailer
- Utility Trailer
- Double Eye Springs
- Single Axle
- Dexter
more information >
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Determining The Correct Replacement Suspension Components For A Single Axle Trailer
- Article: How to Accurately Measure Trailer Leaf Springs
- Q&A: Overall Dimensions of the Hangers in Single-Axle Trailer Hanger Kit APS1
- Q&A: Are Bushings for Trailer Suspension Spring Hangers Required
- Q&A: How to Determine the Distance for Mounting Trailer Spring Hangers on a Single Axle Trailer
- Q&A: Differences in the Redline Single-Axle Trailer Hanger Kits, # APS1, #APS2, and # APS3
- Q&A: Comparing the Single-Axle Trailer Hanger Kits for Double-Eye Springs APS1, APS2, and APS3
- Q&A: Recommended Hanger Kit for Single Axle Double Eye Leaf Spring Trailer Suspension
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Article: Overview of Lubricating Grease
- Article: 7 Common Questions Everyone Has About Trailer Tires
- Article: 5 Tell-Tale Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Trailer’s Leaf Springs
- Article: Towing a Trailer? Let's Talk About Brake Controllers
- Article: Where to Position the Trailer Axle?