Sway Issues with 5th Wheel Trailer After Tow Vehicle Change

Question:

We are pulling a toyhauler 38foot long with 2 motorcycles, bicycles and having HUGE issues with swaying and fishtailing. Feels at times we are sliding on glass. Our weight limit is 3,000 lbs. We shouldnt even be close to that weight. We pulled over and moved as many items to the front of the camper to help balance the weight. It didnt improve any. We had a F250 previously and carried the same weight heading to the same location with no issues at all. We are traveling from Texas to Colorado and this is not a good situation. Any help that you can provide we would greatly appreciate it!!!

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

Since the sway issue you are having with your toy hauler was only present once you switched tow vehicles, it sounds like the trailer and tow vehicle are not aligned. This could very well be the cause of the sway issue you are describing. Depending on what 5th wheel hitch you have, there should be vertical adjustments that can be made in hopes of leveling the trailer to the tow vehicle. If not you will want to check the pin box to see if any adjustments can be made there. If not, then you will need to raise/lower the trailer depending on the height of the vehicle.

If you have leaf spring axles then we do offer the Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit part # K71-384-00 for 2-3/8" diameter axles or part # K71-385-00 which may work for you. If raising/lowering the trailer is not an option for you then you may wanted to consider looking into an electric sway control module like the Tuson Electronic Sway Control System part # 335TSC-1000 which is of course assuming your trailer has electric brakes.

expert reply by: Conner L