What Is Needed To Stop Sway On A Straight Pole Tongue 8X10 Snowmobile Trailer

Expert Reply:

Friction sway control cannot be mounted directly to a pole tongue trailer without modification to the trailer frame. The Pro Series Friction Sway Control Kit, part # 83660, is designed to help stop sway once it begins and is not recommended for use when road conditions are slick or icy. Since you are wanting to use on a snowmobile trailer this may not be the best solution for you anyway.

The first recommendation I would make is to be sure and put all the extra trailer weight (sleds, gear) to the front of the trailer to increase the tongue weight. You will want the tongue weight to be 10 to 15 percent of the trailer weight to help eliminate sway. If you do not have a lot of extra weight to put on the trailer tongue you might want to mount a toolbox on the front to carry extra items in. Any extra tongue weight will help stop the sway on snowmobile trailers.

Snowmobile trailers do not allow the snowmobiles to be moved more towards the tongue and increase the tongue weight. They will usually center the snowmobiles right over the axle of the trailer which helps cause the sway problem.

Another thing to check would be to look at the position of the trailer tongue with the vehicle and trailer parked on a level surface. If the tongue is a bit high and can be lowered to make the trailer level or about 1 inch below level this may help your sway problem. Having the tongue of the trailer high can cause the airflow under the trailer to lift the trailer somewhat which will increase sway conditions. I would use an adjustable ball mount to get the trailer level with the vehicle or about one inch below level when towing. I am including a link to a product page of adjustable ball mounts.

You could try the Draw-Tite Single Bar Weight Distribution for Pole Tongue Trailers, part # RP66071, which could help with the sway as long as there is enough tongue weight for the system to transfer between the vehicle and trailer axles. I am including a link to the installation instructions on the weight distribution system.

I am also including a FAQ page that will give tips on how to tow a trailer and eliminate sway.

expert reply by: Jeff D