How Much Tension Does a Friction Sway Control Bar Need To Have

Question:

Some people tell me to tighten sway bar tight where its very hard to move bar in and out were I need to put all my strength to move it. Which is correct? 2 can you leave sway bar on when backing up ?

asked by: Dan M

Expert Reply:

The best way to make sure you have the proper tension on a friction sway control bar is to just do some testing of your own. The reason for this is because the amount of tension needed will vary from trailer to trailer. The owner's manual for the Curt Friction Sway Control Bar part # 17200 states the following:

"Starting with the factory preset tension, road test the sway control. If this is not enough sway control, then adjust the break tension screw 1/4 turn clockwise. Road test again and repeat (if necessary) until proper sway control is achieved." In regards to backing up the trailer with the sway bar attached, so long as you don't jackknife the trailer you will be fine.

expert reply by: Conner L