Troubleshooting a Tow Vehicle that Sways Considerably Towing Boat Trailer
Question:
Boat: Approx 6800 lbs including the trailer and 2 motors. Tandem Axle Tow Vehicle: 2013 Yukon XL Denali with air-ride Issue: Boat sways so bad on highway, I feel like Im going to lose it. I have bought all my trailer supplies from you. Most recently, Diversi-tech Solid Tow Alum Ballmount 7 Rise 6 Drop. Here is where I am perplexed: Last year, my tow vehicle was a 2012 Dodge Ram 1500 with the 5.7 hemi. Denali has 6.2 liter V8 with higher towing capacity. This thing is rated at 7800 lbs. It also has trailering package, complete with anti-sway control, Tranny cooler, etc. etc. This thing should actually tow BETTER than the Ram. I have never had an issue towing this boat. My neighbor towed it with a Dodge Durango and stated it tows better than his 21 foot Four Winns. My other neighbor towed it with a 2006 Tahoe- no issues. When I picked it up from storage 2 weeks ago, it towed HORRIBLE. first time towing with the yukon XL. I went and found a Ram 1500 and measured the hitch height- it was 19.5 inches to bottom of receiver. I measured the Yukon XL, it is 21.5 to the bottom of the receiver. Ok- now were getting somewhere. I bought the Diversi-tech to adjust down the additional 2 inches. Tried it last night and it is still horrible. Tried adjusting the Diversi-tech for more - same result. Please help. I have 2 little kids and tow the boat all over the state. I really dont want to get rid of the Yukon XL, but will if need be to keep my boys safe. Thank you in advance for reading this.
asked by: Randy K
Expert Reply:
How is the tire pressure on your 2013 GMC Yukon XL? Is the suspension in good working order? If your vehicle and trailer suspension are both in good working order, your trailer is being towed level, and your trailer weighs less than the towing capacities of your tow vehicle you shouldn't be getting the sway you are describing. Especially if the trailer tows just fine with other tow vehicles.
That leads me to believe that the problem is either tire or suspension related on your Yukon XL. If you can't find the issue I would recommend taking it to a qualified mechanic who can troubleshoot the suspension.
