Will Weight Distribution and Sway Control Help with Sway on a 2008 Thor Freedom Spirit Trailer
Question:
I have a 2011 Chev. 1/2 ton Silverado-tow a 2008 19ft. Thor Freedom Spirit. No problems with sway, however, am getting a bit of steering wander on occasions-dont like the feel of it.
asked by: Steven R
Helpful Expert Reply:
It does sound like the trailer is swaying. This is especially the case if there is a cross wind or a big vehicle passes by you. Weight distribution with sway control will definitely help. Another thing to remember is when the trailer starts to sway reduce your speed. Going faster will actually make it worse.
You will need to go by the total tongue weight when choosing a weight distribution system. This is calculated by taking the tongue weight of the trailer when loaded and ready to tow and then adding the weight of any cargo loaded behind the rear axle of the truck. Ideally you will get a system that has a tongue weight capacity range that encompasses the total tongue weight.
For example if the total tongue weight is 600 pounds, a system rated for 400 to 800 pounds would be ideal. If you can tell me what the total tongue weight is I can make some more specific recommendations.
There are also different types of sway control available. Some systems include sway control, others do not. The best systems use dual-cam sway control. Dual-cam sway control proactively and aggressively stop sway before it begins by forcing the tow vehicle and trailer to continuously ride in a straight line.
I have included a link to our FAQ article on weight distribution and sway control and a link to our FAQ article on how to determine tongue weight.
