Why is my 5th Wheel RV Shaking When Towing with my 2014 GMC Sierra
Question:
I have a 2014 1/2 ton gmc truck with a CAB-C5G adapter for a 2012 flagstaff 8100 # fifth wheel rv. I pulled it for the first time recently and was nearly shaken to death.When I returned home I had a pair of inexpesive overload springs installed on the rear axle.It seemed to help with the lurching.I wondering if air bags would help more in place of overload springs. Any thoughts?
asked by: Mark E
Expert Reply:
The Convert-A-Ball 5th wheel to gooseneck adapter # CAB-C5G is cushioned to act as shock absorber for a smooth, safe ride and to reduce bounce and vibration.
It seems to me that you don't have enough pin weight or the 5th wheel isn't being towed level.
The theory of using air bags could help as you could experiment changing the air pressure settings.
The first thing I would check is the gooseneck adapter to ensure proper torque is applied to the hardware according to the specs in the instructions.
Secondly, the current pin weight could be too low. The height can be adjusted between 12-18 inches. So if it is riding high in the front, adjust the height down and it should add more pin weight.
Third, an over under kit can raise your suspension if needed and 5th wheel needs to be towed level. If it is not, you could use Dexter trailer springs over under kit # K71-384-00 for 2-3/8 inch axles. If you have 3 inch axles the over under kit # K71-385-00 would be the one you would need. This upgrade will allow moving your leaf trailer springs to top of axle. As long as you have double eye suspension and the leaf spring stack is currently mounted below the axle you can use an over under kit.
If you are unable to use an over under kit, then you would have to have taller hangers welded on in place of the existing hangers. Adding a hanger will suspend leaf springs from the frame of your trailer. I have included a link to the hangers we stock that work with slipper or double eye springs.
The over under kits or adding taller hangers will raise the rear of the trailer allowing it to be more level if that is indeed the problem. But raising the height of a trailer also raises its center of gravity and makes the trailer more susceptible to sway.
I have included an installation video for you as well.
Products Referenced in This Question
Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit
- Trailer Leaf Spring Suspension
- Alignment and Lift Kits
- Boat Trailer
- Camper
- Car Hauler
- Snowmobile Trailer
- Utility Trailer
- Double Eye Springs
- Round Axle - 2-3/8 Inch
- Single Axle
- Dexter
more information >
Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit
- Trailer Leaf Spring Suspension
- Alignment and Lift Kits
- Boat Trailer
- Camper
- Car Hauler
- Snowmobile Trailer
- Utility Trailer
- Double Eye Springs
- Round Axle - 3 Inch
- Dexter
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Convert-A-Ball Cushioned 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Adapter - 12" to 16" Tall - 20,000 lbs
- Gooseneck and Fifth Wheel Adapters
- Adapts Trailer
- Fifth Wheel Trailer to Gooseneck Hitch
- No Offset
- 20000 lbs GTW
- Bolts Over King Pin
- Adjustable Height
- King Pin Adapters
- Convert-A-Ball
more information >
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