Fixing Rear End Squat Caused By Towing on 2014 Acura MDX
Question:
I find my 2014 MDX sagging when Im towing. Trailer weight is aprox 3500 lbs and tongue weight should be close to 350. I have the tow package so car can handle the load. Im looking at the Timbren Vehicle Suspension kit. Im wondering how easy these are to install and how effective they will be? I would ask my dealer to install them. Does anything need to be removed or uninstalled before these can be installed?
asked by: Bruce K
Expert Reply:
To install the Timbren # THROD2 on your 2014 Acura MDX, you'd need to temporarily remove the rear coil springs, remove the factory bump stops and replace them with the Timbren springs, then replace the coil springs. Timbren recommends using a professional for installation.
A suspension enhancement product like the Timbren springs are meant to suspend the weight of cargo carried in the vehicle, not to combat the downward force of the trailer's tongue weight being exerted on the rear axle of the vehicle. For that, a Weight Distribution (WD) system would be much more effective. In extreme cases, the Timbren spring can act as a fulcrum, lightening the weight on the front vehicle axle, which can be dangerous.
To choose a weight distribution system, you'll need to first determine the fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of your trailer. To that figure, add the weight of any gear stowed in the cargo area of the SUV or truck bed behind the rear axle. I've linked to an FAQ article that explains how to do this. These combined figures comprise the Total Tongue Weight (TTW) of your set-up. The TTW of your trailer should fall as close as possible to the middle of the effective range of the weight distribution system you choose. Assuming that the TTW doesn't exceed the capabilities of the hitch or the vehicle, I recommend a Reese Steadi-Flex system like the # RP66558. This system is effective on trailers whose tongue weights range from 400-600 lbs, which should be ideal for your trailer. The system includes the weight distributing shank, but the trailer ball is sold separately. Use part # 63845 for a 2 inch ball or part # 63847 for a 2-5/16 inch.
Products Referenced in This Question
2" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 7,500 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-1/8 Inch Shank Length
- 1 Inch Diameter Shank
- 7500 lbs GTW
- Class III
- Tow Ready
more information >
2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 7,500 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2-5/16 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-1/8 Inch Shank Length
- 1 Inch Diameter Shank
- 7500 lbs GTW
- Class III
- Draw-Tite
more information >
2" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-5/8 Inch Shank Length
- 1-1/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 10000 lbs GTW
- Class IV
- Class V
- CURT
more information >
Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 6K GTW, 600 TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 500 lbs
- Reese
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System
- Vehicle Suspension
- Rear Axle Suspension Enhancement
- Jounce-Style Springs
- Standard Duty
- Timbren
more information >
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