Is The Shocker Air Equalizer Overkill For A 600lb Tongue Weight Travel Trailer

Question:

Is this hitch an overkill for a 24 ft TT with a max weight of 5500 lbs? Tongue weight is 600 lbs. I am pulling it with a 4x4 F150 Sport 2.7 V6 turbo with a tow package, using a Husky Centerline WDH. I want to make the ride as comfortable as possible for cross country trips. The concrete roads can be dreadful unless speed is reduced to 50 MPH.

asked by: Randy

Expert Reply:

The Shocker Air Equalizer for Weight Distribution Hitch # SHK68VR was designed for up to 1,200lb tongue weight so your 600lb tongue weight will easily fall within range and wouldn't necessarily be overkill. The manufacturer does not give a specific psi rating and recommends starting with the air bag empty and filling it 5psi at a time until you feel comfortable with the ride quality.

Once properly inflated for your application the air bag will help minimize the bouncing you're feeling with your trailer but you can also help mitigate the bouncing by improving the suspension on your trailer.

I recommend going with the an upgrade like the SumoSprings Trailer Helper Springs # TSS-106-40 if your leaf springs are underslung or the SumoSprings Trailer Helper Springs w/ Line Relocation Bracket # TSS-107-40 if your leaf springs are overslung.

If you have a tandem axle then I recommend installing a shock system like the Roadmaster Comfort Ride Shock Absorbers for Tandem Axle Trailers - 3,500-lb Axle # RM-2450. This system is designed to fit 2-3/8" diameter axles and will greatly reduce the trailer bounce, chucking, and porpoising that you have been experiencing.