Why Cant a You Back Up a Trailer with Pro Series Weight Distribution and Friction Sway Control  

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Expert Reply:

If you are backing up straight and on level ground then you can back up with a weight distribution system, such as # PS49582, installed. But in most cases you would have to disengage the sway control for sure and may have to remove the spring bars if you have to make a very tight maneuver like a jackknife.

The issue is that when you back up and have to turn to angle the trailer properly it can put incredible stress on the system and trailer and you can end up damaging something (trailer or sway bar).

There are other systems that do not have this restriction. You could use a Reese Strait-Line system, such as # RP66084 rated for 600 to 1200 pounds tongue weight. This system uses dual-cam sway control so backing up isn't an issue since it works differently than friction sway bars.

You could also use a Blue Ox SwayPro system such as # BXW1000. It also works differently so backing up is not an issue. For either system though in extreme tight maneuvers you would want to remove the spring bars first.

For either system you would need to add a properly sized ball, # A-90 for a 2 inch or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch. For very tight turns (like 90 degree turns) it is recommended to remove the spring bars even on the Strait-Line and SwayPro systems.

expert reply by: Michael H

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