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Sway Control Options for 26-Foot Trailer Towed By 2014 Ford F-250  

Question:

I have a 26foot bumper pull box trailer, 2014 F250 with a Reese weight distribution system and one anti-sway slider type unit. The load was checked and okd by a local trailer company. The slider was tight to the point of making a popping sound on sharp, low sped turns backing mostly. My recent trip from Ohio to New Mexico included 15-25 MPH sustained winds with gusts to 60 MPH and lots of trucks passing me I dont drive over 65 MPH. It was a 10AM and 2PM on the steering wheel the whole trip. Besides the gusts of wind the big rigs moved me around a lot and their trailers tended to sway my way when they cleared my front bumper. Would an addition anti sway unit help me? Thanks.

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

You have several options to help reduce your trailer sway, but first I want to offer a caution. A friction sway control arm such as the Reese # 83660 should always be released when backing up your trailer. Some popping sound is normal for forward travel but the friction mechanism must be disengaged for reversing or it can be damaged. You might take a look at your sway control unit to ensure it is not bent. If so it should be replaced.

You can add a second unit such as the part referenced above; this will deliver some incremental improvement but whether it will be fully satisfactory to you is hard to say.

A more effective option is to, if possible, convert your Reese weight distribution system to a dual-cam type by adding the cam assemblies and if necessary replacing your spring bars to ensure they are rated appropriately for your fully-loaded trailer's measured tongue weight (using your Sherline scale).

If you can provide the part number for your Reese weight distribution system, and your fully loaded trailer tongue weight, I can check with Reese to confirm the components you'll need to convert it to dual cam operation. A dual-cam system will provide superior performance to even two friction-type units.

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Adam R

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