How to Correct Fishtailing and Sway When Towing on Highway
Question:
I just put air lift 5000s on my 2015 tundra. I pull a 30ft camper and im experiencing alot of fish tailing traveling the interstate. Can you give me any advice on how much pressure to run or any other suggestions?
asked by: Larry D
Helpful Expert Reply:
Air bags such as the Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate Air Helper Springs # AL88299 are a great option for helping reduce sway but won't be enough to control it at highway speeds. The best way to do this by far is a weight distribution with sway control.
In order to do this though you do need to get the right system, which means you have to know your total tongue weight (TTW), which is the tongue weight of your fully loaded trailer plus whatever is behind the rear axle of your Tundra. The tongue weight is typically between 10% and 15% of your trailer's GVWR but you'll want to verify it by using a scale such as the etrailer Tongue Weight Scale # e99044. From there, simply add on the weight of the cargo behind the rear axle of your tow vehicle and you'll have your TTW. The ideal system would be one in which your TTW falls somewhere in the middle of the weight distribution system's tongue weight capacity.
For example, if your TTW was 1,200 lbs you would want the Equal-i-zer # EQ37140ET, which is for TTW between 1,000 lbs and 1,400 lbs. If you let me know what your TTW is I would be happy to make a recommendation for you so you can get the correct system. I've also added some links to help articles which I recommend checking out.
Products Referenced in This Question
etrailer Tongue Weight Scale for Campers and Utility Trailers - 2,000-lb Capacity
- Tongue Weight Scale
- Analog Scale
- 2000 lbs
- etrailer
more information >
Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System w/ 4-Point Sway Control - 14,000 lbs GTW, 1,400 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 1200 lbs
- 1300 lbs
- Equal-i-zer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate Air Helper Springs with Internal Jounce Bumpers - Rear Axle
- Vehicle Suspension
- Rear Axle Suspension Enhancement
- Air Springs
- Heavy Duty
- Air Lift
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
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