How Can I Reduce Bouncing On A Bumper Pull Trailer

Question:

I have a 20 foot bumper pull trailer. This trailer is very stiff, weighs 3500# with a 10K Capacity. It is running bias ply tires. When empty or loaded the trail has a slight bounce, when loaded the bounce is still noticeable but not as bad. What can be done to minimize this bouncing affect? If I am unloaded, should I be running lower pressure? Thanks for your help.

asked by: David K

Expert Reply:

There are a few things that can cause bounce with a bumper pull trailer. Generally, bias ply tires would not contribute to trailer bounce, unless they are excessively worn. Trailer bounce is can be caused by worn out suspension components. You will want to get under the trailer and give everything a good look-over.

You will want to check and make sure the trailer is completely level when towing.

If all of that checks out, it may be the case that you are just not towing enough weight relative to the total amount of weight the trailer weighs. As you said, adding weight to the trailer will help, reducing bouncing the closer you get to the GVWR. Our rule of thumb is that your trailer tongue weight should be 10%-15% of the GVWR. Since the trailer only weighs 3,500 lbs, this is likely the cause of the issue.

For a quick fix you can add on some SumoSprings Trailer Helper Springs like the # TSS-106-40 for underslung axles or # TSS-107-40 for overslung. These will help to reduce bouncing and add stability.

expert reply by: Jesse M