Weight Distribution and Sway Control Recommendation for a Trailer with Varying Loads

Question:

2011 Ram 1500..2009 Playmor 12foot single axle box trailer. the tongue weight varies with each load..motorcycles, furniture.. always something different and and its hard to balance a single axle trailer. I get sway at times and the hitch dips at other times. I installed the airlift system, but more needs to be done.

asked by: Pete G

Expert Reply:

If sway is the only problem then you can just add a sway control bar, # 83660. You will also need a ball mount bracket # RP26003. Friction sway bars are great for an easy solution to a swaying trailer. I have included a link to a video showing a typical installation for you.

Weight distribution is the best option for taking out vehicle rear end sag when towing a trailer. But since you have already installed air bags on the truck, it would not work as well because the two systems tend to work against each other. To choose a weight distribution system you would go by the tongue weight of the trailer when loaded and ready to tow and then add the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle.

The system you have referenced # PS49583 is rated for 750 to 1,000 pounds tongue weight. If that is too high then the next step down is # PS49582 rated for 550 to 750 pounds tongue weight. And that next step down from that is # PS49901 rated for up to 550 pounds tongue weight. I have included links to FAQ articles on determining tongue weight and weight distribution for you.

expert reply by: Michael H