Weight Distribution and Sway Control for a 29 ft Sprindale Trailer Towed by a 2012 Ford Expedition

Question:

I have a 29foot Springdale trailer being towed by a 2012 Ford Expedition EL. It has a Husky weight distribution hitch with sway control. The sway bars have to be tightened so much, that it looks like the sway bars are bending. If you go over 60 mph, the sway is very bad. Did I get the wrong hitch? I dont know the true tongue weight, but the hitch is rated for 800-1000 lbs. Please help

asked by: Don E

Expert Reply:

The key to purchasing the correct weight distribution system and sway control is choosing a system that is compatible with the tongue weight of your trailer. So it is important to know the tongue weight of your trailer when it is fully loaded and ready to tow. With that being said, I have attached an article on determining trailer tongue weight for you to review.

If the tongue weight of your trailer is greater or less than the tongue weight range on your weight distribution system, then the system will not be effective.

There are a few other factors that you will want to look at as well. It is possible to over tighten the spring bars. The spring bars should be either parallel to the trailer frame or tilt down at a slight angle toward the rear of the trailer.

If you have the friction sway control bars like part # 83660, then it is recommended the use of two sway control bars for trailers that are over 6,000 lbs or 26 ft or longer. You also do not want to over or under tighten the sliding mechanism.

Finally, you will want to make sure your trailer is loaded properly. Too much weight at the back of the trailer can cause trailer sway as well.

I have attached another article on weight distribution that you may find helpful as well. If you are able to get the tongue weight of your trailer and find that your current weight distribution hitch will not work, then let me know and I can recommend the correct system for you.

expert reply by: John H