Best Way to Prevent Trailer Sway with Rockwood GeoPro 19FD

Question:

we are looking at purchasing a Rockwood GeoPro 19FD trailer. This unit is a single axle no brake. Axle Weight 2401 lbs Hitch Weight 390 lbs Dry Weight 2829 lbs Cargo Weight 1061 lbs I need something to tow this unit without sway. Sway its is why we sold our 2012 tow behind and also traded our 2017 tag along toy hauler after using it 4 times. can you offer me suggestions with some comparisons?

asked by: Earl S

Expert Reply:

The biggest thing that causes trailer sway is not having enough tongue weight on the trailer. If the tongue weight isn't between 10 and 15 percent of the total trailer weight you'll end up with sway. The other less common cause is worn out suspension components. Weight distribution with sway control will do a great job preventing and curbing sway induces by high winds or passing semi trucks but won't stop persistent sway that happens always at highway speeds.

The best way to pick out a weight distribution system is to base it off of the loaded tongue weight of the setup when it is loaded and ready to tow. This figure also includes the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. I attached a help article on determining tongue weight for you to check out as well. You will want the loaded tongue weight of your setup to fall right in the middle of the tongue weight range of the system you use.

The best solution for a tongue weight of 390 lbs would be the Reese Strait Line kit part # RP66082 which has a tongue weight of 200-600 lbs and features only sway control that works to try and prevent sway before it starts so it would be your best option.

For a 2 inch ball you would want part # A-90 and for a 2-5/16 inch ball # 19286.

expert reply by: Jameson C