What Could Cause a Homemade Trailer to Sway

Question:

when they say 60/40 for the axle is that of just the box itself ,or over all length with the tongue.thanx..

asked by: Kirk

Expert Reply:

When you are calculating the 40/60 split of weight on a trailer you are going to want to consider the entire length of the trailer. There could be a lot of reasons for trailer sway but your best defense against it is proper loading of the trailer. Heavier items should be at the bottom and the load should be even side to side.

If the tongue weight is too low or too high, that could also cause sway. Typically, the tongue weight should be 10 to 15 percent of the gross trailer weight when loaded and ready to tow.

Make sure that you are using trailer tires which will have an ST in front of the size. Trailer tires should be inflated to the maximum psi rating indicated on the tire. Mismatched tires, like one bias and one radial, will track differently and can effect the ride. I have included a link to our trailer tire FAQ for you.

Worn suspension parts or parts that are not aligned properly can cause some issues as well. If one or two parts are worn, there is a good chance others are as well. Taking the trailer to a shop that works on trailers and having someone inspect the suspension would be a good idea. I have included a link to our trailer suspension FAQs for you.

You also may benefit from a weight distribution and/or sway control. I would need to know the tongue weight of the trailer when loaded and ready to tow, plus the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the towing vehicle to recommend the best system for you. I have included a link to our FAQ on weight distribution and sway control for you.

expert reply by: Michael H