Weight Distribution System for Starcraft 3600 lb Hybrid Travel Trailer Towed by 2009 Nissan Xterra  

Question:

Expert Reply:

The severity of trailer sway can vary from an annoying condition to one that is downright frightening. Ensuring that your trailer is properly loaded is the first step to combating trailer sway. Your trailer should be loaded so that its tongue weight (downward force exerted on the trailer ball) is 10 to 15 percent of the weight of the fully-loaded trailer. If the tongue weight figure is less than 10 percent, adding more weight to the front of the trailer can diminish the sway.

When does the sway occur? Is it constant, or is it caused by cross-winds or passing vehicles? If the sway is constant, it could indicate a problem with the trailer itself, such as a worn or damaged suspension. Check your tires. If you are experiencing uneven tire wear, you might have bent spindles or a bent axle. Before considering a weight distribution system, you will need to confirm that the suspension components of your trailer are in proper working order.

Because of the fairly short wheelbase of the Xterra, a weight distribution system is a certainly called for. The first step in choosing a system is to determine the fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of the trailer (see link that shows how to determine trailer tongue weight). You will also need to add the weight of anything carried behind the rear axle of the Xterra in the tongue weight figure. If this tongue weight figure is between 400-800 lbs, the # RP66087 system you mentioned would work great for you. If the tongue weight is below 400 lbs, the # RP66540 that is effective on trailers with tongue weights ranging from 200-600 lbs would be a better choice. You will also need the appropriately sized trailer ball with a 1-1/4 inch diameter shank, like part # A-90 for a 2 inch ball or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch ball.

I have linked you to installation details as well as an FAQ article about weight distribution.

expert reply by: Mike L

0