Recommended Anti-Rattle Device for Towing Camper

Question:

I am not convinced that any of the silencers will help when towing an 8,000 lb camper. All photos show bike racks or light-weight trailers. Also, I havent figured out whey e2 and other hitch manufacturers make a 1,000 lb hitch that has so much slop in a factory Tundra hitch receiver. Same on a 3/4-ton Dodge Ram. What do you say?

asked by: MJames

Expert Reply:

There are several anti-rattle devices that would be good to use when towing. The construction of your ball mount will determine the best choice for your application. Solid shank ball mounts require an anti rattle that mounts to the outside, where hollow shanks give the option for a different mounting style.

The Etrailer Anti-Rattle Hitch Stabilizer for 2" Hitches # e99007 you mentioned can be used in a variety of ways including bike racks, cargo carriers, tow bars and any other hitch mounted accessory. Since it mounts to the outside of the hitch and ball mount this would be great for solid shank or hollow shank ball mounts. It will cut down on the noise you hear when towing your camper, and can be installed without removing the ball mount.

Another option if you have a hollow shank ball mount is the Softride Stainless Steel Locking, Anti-Rattle Threaded Hitch Pin # SR25219. It has a small nut insert that goes inside the ball mount and a bolt pulls the nut to the side of the receiver tube and reduces the space between the hitch and ball mount. It also comes with an included lock to keep all your accessories secure inside the hitch. It's rated at 10K GTW so it will be more than enough for your camper.

Most manufacturers make the ball mounts and other accessories slightly smaller so they fit into the hitch without issue. Most trailer hitches and ball mounts have some play, and over time it can get a little worse from the paint wearing off. That's why I always recommend an anti rattle device, It makes driving much more quiet, and puts less wear and tear on everything.

I linked all the parts mentioned above, and include a couple review videos for you to check out.

expert reply by: Robert C