Correcting Tow Vehicle Sag on a 1988 Plymouth Voyager
Question:
Hello, I have a 88 Plymouth Voyager w the factory towing package. Its rated to pull 3500 lbs. Whats is the easiest and most economical way to raise the rear of the Van when towing.? Normally I would not have to do this, but If I have the Van itself loaded down, it then sits rather low w a trailer. Thanks in advance for your help
asked by: Mark
Expert Reply:
The easiest way to level out your vehicle will be to add a weight distribution system to the trailer. These kits will replace the shank and ball mount of your vehicle with a head unit that will help distribute the trailer weight across the tow vehicle and trailer's axles. I recommend the Pro Series weight system, part # PS49901. This kit will add a weight distribution and bolt-on sway control device, helping the overall ride of your vehicle and load improve. I've included a video of this kit being installed so you can get a better idea of how it works.
A more invasive option is an air bag kit like the Air Lift Ride Control springs, part # AL59520. This will fit vehicles without rear air/heat lines. The kit installs over the existing factory leaf springs to improve your suspension and level out the towing vehicle. After loading the trailer, you can manually adjust each spring to level out the tow vehicle back to its stock, unloaded height. This has the added benefit of leveling the trailer out a little more, and helping it ride smoother, even without a trailer. If your hitch isn't rated for Weight Distribution, then use this option.
Weight Distribution is the better of the two options because of the ease of installation and how much it accomplishes in comparison to the air bags. Installing the weight distribution hitch is basically just bolting the hitch's sway and spring bars to the trailer's frame, and then making sure that the system is set to level out the vehicle and trailer. For the one price, the weight distribution also can contribute to reduced trailer sway, and an overall smoother ride because the vehicle is effectively less stressed by the addition of the trailer.
