Weight Distribution Hitch Recommendation for a Coleman Fleetwood Utah Popup Camper

Question:

I have a earlier model Coleman Fleetwood Utah popup camper that has sway issues. The later models redistributed the weight by moving the kitchen galley and doorway in front of the axle. Although I have tried to mitigate the problems by lowering my hitch to slightly below level, not carrying any water in the storage tank, and increasing weight in the front storage box which have improved the situation, I still have the dog wag thing occurring. I do have a friction control sway bar that came with the camper. I really have to tighten down on it with a wrench to maintain safe control at high speed. If the unit gets loose any amount, I hit the electric brake and control down from 65 mph to 50 mph or below. I had been pulling the pup with a 2001 Jeep Limited which has the V8 engine and factory towing package. But, lately had transitioned to my 2002 F-150 Super Crew which has a 4.6 V8. Again, both vehicles have brake controllers and similar hitch heights that should increase tongue weight. Sway is a problem with either vehicle. I seemed to be on the edge of finding something that will work but I dont think having to lock down on the friction sway control is quite the answer so I being looking at Reese products with weight distribution and cam activated sway control. I wondering if these products with a proactive sway approach be the solution to my problem. My Ford has hitch rating for Weight Distributing of Max Gross Trlr Wt of 10,000 lb and a Max Tongue Weight of 1000 lb Weight Carrying Ball Mount is 5,000 lb with Max Tongue of 500 lb. The Coleman Utah Pup GVWR is 3250 lbs, Unload Weight is 2,400 lbs, see attach photo. From reading various threads, the Reese mini 350 improves but does not totally solve my problem. But I understand some heavier duty Reese WDs might work better from an expert rely from you all concerning a Coleman Niagara which is the same except the Niagara has a bath. Your expert recommended two Reese products which the RP66540 and RP66086. The latter product which seemed have better sway control looked real promising to me but am concerned about what I need to know to make sure that it will fit my pup. Would you have good choices that you recommend? Let me know if need further information or pics of my setup. Thanks ahead,

asked by: Michael J

Expert Reply:

Your best option at this point will be to have your trailer sit as level as possible with a properly rated weight distribution system with dual cam sway control and distribute as much weight as you can as far forward as possible. I attached an FAQ on how to pick the correct rise/drop ball mount.

The best way to pick out a weight distribution system is to base it off of the loaded tongue weight of the setup when it is loaded and ready to tow, this figure also includes the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. I attached an FAQ on determining tongue weight for you to check out as well.

Based on the info you gave me your tongue weight will at most be about 650 lbs. Based on that I would recommend the Strait-Line Weight Distribution System w Sway Control # RP66083. This is a great system that we recently got to try here on a trailer and the difference is noticeable.

Make sure your tires are inflated to their max pressure and your suspension is in good working order.

expert reply by: Jameson C