Weight Distribution/ Sway Control System for Small 3500 lb Travel Trailer
Question:
Hey I have a 2005 titan pickup and just order a sol dawn in tech camper. The over all weigh is 2700. dry and 3500. loaded. Its an aluminum trailer. What is the best anti sway system to purchase for this set up?
asked by: Debbie S
Expert Reply:
Most manufacturers of aluminum framed trailers don't have any issue with a weight distribution hitch being used, but it's still a good idea to touch base with your trailer manufacturer just in case.
Rather than an add-on system like the Reese # 83660 you'd looked at, I'd recommend going with a weight distribution setup that uses a combined sway control component. Travel trailers (even smaller ones) are especially vulnerable to trailer sway caused by passing traffic or crosswinds due to their high sides that act like the sail on a boat.
Given that your fully loaded trailer weighs 3500 lbs, it's tongue weight most likely falls somewhere in the 350 to 525 lb range. I'd recommend going with the Fastway e2 system, part # FA92-00-0600. You'll also need a trailer ball with a 1-1/4 inch diameter shank like the 2 inch # A-90.
This system offers weight distribution rated for trailers with tongue weights ranging from 250-600 lbs, which is perfect for the weight you describe. This portion of the system will counteract the rear suspension sag caused by the trailer's tongue weight bearing down on the hitch. This will level the ride height between the front and rear truck suspension, it will keep your headlights pointed where they should be and will improve steering and braking response by transferring a portion of the portion of the trailer's tongue weight to the front truck axle.
The sway control portion of the setup will do a great job of resisting mild to moderate trailer sway, the system would work very well for the small travel trailer you describe.
If you click the provided link, you can see my buddy Randy explaining how the system works and how to set it up.
Products Referenced in This Question
2" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-5/8 Inch Shank Length
- 1-1/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 10000 lbs GTW
- Class IV
- Class V
- CURT
more information >
Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control - Trunnion - 6,000 lbs GTW, 600 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
- 400 lbs
- 500 lbs
- Fastway
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Reese Friction Sway Control Kit - Economy - by Draw-Tite, Reese and Hidden Hitch
- Accessories and Parts
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- Sway Control Parts
- Reese
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Shop: Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control - Trunnion - 6,000 lbs GTW, 600 lbs TW
- Shop: etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Shop: Stealth Hitches Hidden Rack Receiver - Custom Fit - 2"
- Shop: Roof Rack
- Shop: Timken Bearing Kit for Lippert, Dexter, and AL-KO Axles - 3,500 lb with #84 Spindle
- Shop: Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Box - 22 cu ft - Black Glossy
- Search Results: scissor jack
- Search Results: drum assembly
- Video: Dexter Electric Trailer Brake Kit Installation 23-26
- Shop: Easy Grease Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 3.5K Axles - 10" - 5 on 4-1/2 - Pre-Greased
- Q&A: Is a Weight Distribution System Required for Towing a 3,000 lb Trailer
- Video: etrailer Easy Grease Trailer Hub and Drums Installation - 2020 K-Z Sportsmen Classic Travel Trailer
- Video: Thule Roof Box Review - 2016 Acura MDX
- Video: Thule Roof Box Review - 2019 Cadillac XT5
- Q&A: Best Weight Distribution System for Towing a 28 ATC Aluminum Trailer with a 2017 Ford F-350
- Article: 5 Things to Know About Weight Distribution Hitches
- Search Results: shocker hitch
- Q&A: Are New Brake Drums Required if Replacing Electric Brake Assemblies on a Trailer
- Video: etrailer Trailer Brakes AKEBRK-35L-SA Review
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Search Results: 44649
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Video: Choosing the Right Trailer Wiring
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Video: Choosing the Right Brake Controller