From: "Nolan" <opposumking@verizon.net>
> A trailer sways because its nose is pointing one way, and then the other.
> This can be from weak trailer tire sidewalls (low tire pressure), sloppy
> trailer suspension (common), wiggly hitch mount, and inadequate tires on the
> tow vehicle (very common).
>
> Various factors can increase the swaying tendancy. The shorter the distance
> between the hitch and the trailer axle(s), the more likely the trailwer will
> sway. As well extending the load out from the centroid of the trailer
> axle(s). Distance from the hitch to the tow vehicle rear axle rapidly
> increases leverage on the tow vehicle tires, creating lots of neat sway
> problems.
>
> The 10% tongue weight rule of thumb is simply a means of helping ensure you
> don't load the trailer in a manner that exasurbates the swaying tendancy.
> Far more important is to ensure the causes of sway are addressed. Many an
> otherwise stable trailer sways because the tow vehicle has weak sidewall
> tires and low tire pressure, and I'm not talking about just the rear tires.
Absolutely. Truck tires instead of car tires on the tow vehicle helps, too.
Stiffer sidewalls.
Maybe a Panhard rod if your leaf-spring truck has side-flex issues.
When you start a left turn in your truck, your trailer actually steers right.
Short truck overhang and long trailer-wheel distance minimizes this.
That's why fifth-wheels tow so nicely: When you start a left turn in your
truck, your trailer actually steers left.
--
Phil Ethier West Side Saint Paul Minnesota USA
1962 Triumph TR4 CT2846L, 1992 Saturn SL2, 1993 Suburban,
1994 Miata C package
pethier [at] comcast [dot] net http://forum.mnautox.com/forums/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pethier
I decry the textmessagization of the American-English language.
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