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.
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