Towing Popup Trailer with 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan Causes Jerking Movement Front to Back

Question:

We just picked up a popup trailer and when we were driving slow or getting up to speed on the highway we felt a continuous jerking motion from front to back. When we got up to speed it seemed fine. We are pulling with a 2007 grand caravan and the popup weighs 2800lbs and tongue weight about 350. We have a class 3 hitch with a primus IQ break controller and also have the extra transmission cooler. Any ideas? We dont have a WDH. Someone mentioned to get a J pin. Thanks for the help

asked by: Rick C

Expert Reply:

A j-pin, which only works with certain Draw-Tite, Reese, and Hidden Hitch trailer hitches, is not going to solve this problem but it might help some. Since the jerking motion you felt was from front to back it sounds like you would benefit from a cushioned ball mount.

There are several different cushioned ball mounts, see link, but they all basically work the same way. There is a polyurethane interior inside the shank that acts as a shock absorber. This reducing bounce and rhythmic vibration and will help with the jerking motion.

For side to side sway you might want to look at adding a friction sway bar, # 83660. This will help keep the trailer straight while towing it and could help some with the other movement you are experiencing. You would also need sway control bracket # RP26003.

expert reply by: Michael H