How to Reduce Sag While Towing with a 2006 Honda Odyssey
Question:
hi expert, need some suggestions.. 2006 Honda Odyssey front wheel drive with power steering cooler, transmission cooler, 7pin connector, brake controller installed with parts from etrailer.com. I have a dry weight 3100 lbs trailer, when connect to the Odyssey, even with weight distribution system, the rear of trailer sag very noticeably. It makes towing uncomfortable and i can feel van is been pushed or pull by the trailer. Do you suggest a rear suspension helper can help with sag ? will it make towing more comfortable for passengers ? I know there are at least 3 options, AirLift1000, Timbren, and Coil SumoSprings. AirLift1000 has price advantage. Coil SumoSprings is easiest to install. Which of these provide the most aggressive solution to rear sagging ? Any other product you recommend. thanks
asked by: Frank
Expert Reply:
The use of a properly rated and installed weight distribution system should not require the use of additional suspension enhancements. Before recommending additional components for your 2006 Honda Odyssey, I would first want you to check that the system you have is appropriately rated for your total tongue weight.
Your total tongue weight can be calculated by adding the loaded ready to tow tongue weight of your trailer by any cargo storage behind the rear axle of your van. An easy way to find this would involve using a tongue weight scale like the Trailer Tongue Weight Scale part # e99044. When choosing a weight distribution system, you will want your total tongue weight to fall in the middle of the weight distribution weight capacity. For example, the ideal weight distribution system for a total tongue weight of 600 lbs. is one that is rated for 400-800 lbs. of tongue weight.
If you find that your current system is not properly rated then chances are we have replacement spring bars that can be added to your existing system to give you the ideal tongue weight range. If you find your system to be properly rated for your application then I recommend using the Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System part # THROD2.
The Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement will replace your factory bump stops and act as a buffer between the frame and lower control arms while the suspension is loaded. The springs will not allow the rear suspension to sag as much in comparison to the factory bump stops. The space between the frame and control arm is filled with a aeon rubber spring that will provide additional support, improve handling, and reduce suspension wear on existing components. Unfortunately, none of the suspension enchantment we have for you are really going to improve the ride quality for your passengers while towing. Compared to airbags, the Timbren springs will provide a much greater support capacity which will in turn reduce sag.
I have attached a review video of the Timbren springs for you as well.
Products Referenced in This Question
Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System
- Vehicle Suspension
- Rear Axle Suspension Enhancement
- Jounce-Style Springs
- Standard Duty
- Timbren
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Tongue Weight Scale for Campers and Utility Trailers - 2,000-lb Capacity
- Tongue Weight Scale
- Analog Scale
- 2000 lbs
- etrailer
more information >
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on Tongue Weight Scale
