Recommended Weight Distribution/Sway Control for 1998 38 Foot Jayco Eagle Travel Trailer

Question:

Im new to the camping world so I dont have too much knowledge about this but I know the basics. My wife and I bought a 1998 38ft Jayco Eagle travel trailer a few months ago and camping season is coming up quickly. So my question is, what would be the best set up for towing this big of a camper safely. My father in law is letting me use his 2013 Ford F150 with the max tow package with the ecoboost engine so its more than capable of towing the camper. What would would be the best set up for this combination of trailer and tow vehicle?

asked by: Kyle C

Expert Reply:

A 38 foot travel trailer will without a doubt be susceptible to crosswinds and turbulence from oncoming and passing traffic.

A friction sway control like # 83660 is what I would refer to as an entry-level solution that works best for trailers 25 feet long or shorter that experience minor sway.

Due to the length of the travel trailer, I believe a weight distribution/sway control combination would work best for your needs. The system would be matched to the trailer, and could be used with whatever tow vehicle you end up using.

In order to choose the correct system, you first need to determine the fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of your trailer. To this figure, add the weight of anything stowed in the bed of the truck behind the rear axle. The TTW of your trailer should fall as close as possible to the middle of the effective range of the weight distribution system you choose. I'll link you to an FAQ article that shows how to find the TTW of your trailer.

A Reese Steadi-Flex System that combines weight distribution with highly effective sway control would be a good choice for you. If you find that the TTW is between 400-600 lbs, use part # RP66558. For a heavier trailer, with a tongue weight of 500-1000 lbs, use # RP66559 or for a trailer with a tongue weight ranging from 600-1200, go with the # RP66560.

The systems I recommended include the weight distributing shank, but the appropriately sized trailer ball is sold separately. For a 2 inch ball, use part # A-90 or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch ball.