Does Length Matter When Towing with a Short Wheelbase Vehicle
Question:
12 Nissan Armada, 2wd, Platinum with tow package. Im looking to buy a 6500lb dry weight camper but its 35 ft long. Ive researched the weight and believe Im good there, but nobody talks about the length with the short wheel base. Would the length make a difference when pulling?
asked by: Kyle
Helpful Expert Reply:
The biggest factor to consider when towing a long trailer with a short wheel base tow vehicle is trailer sway. There is no standard ratio for wheelbase to trailer length, but the general rule is a longer trailer and a shorter wheelbase will increase the severity of trailer sway.
For your towing setup, I strongly recommend considering a weight distribution system with integrated sway control like the Equal-I-zer systems because they will be your best solution for fighting trailer sway.
When choosing a weight distribution system, the most important thing to consider is the Total Tongue Weight of your towing setup. The Total Tongue Weight includes the loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of your trailer plus the weight of any gear loaded in the tow vehicle behind the rear axle.
For example, if you find that your Total Tongue Weight will not exceed 1,000 lbs, then I recommend the Equal-I-zer system # EQ37100ET. Keep in mind that the trailer's tongue weight will typically be 10-15 percent of the gross trailer weight. If your Total Tongue Weight exceeds 1,000 lbs, then you will want to step up to the next size, # EQ37120ET.
I've attached a few review videos and links to these systems for you to check out. You may also want to pick up their thin walled socket, # EQ70-00-4800, which will make the setup process much easier.
Products Referenced in This Question
Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 1000 lbs
- 1100 lbs
- Equal-i-zer
more information >
Thin Walled Socket for Equal-i-zer Hitches
- Accessories and Parts
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- Tools
- Socket
- Equal-i-zer
- Equal-i-zer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 10,000 lbs GTW, 1,000 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 800 lbs
- 900 lbs
- Equal-i-zer
more information >
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