Weight Distribution and Sway Control Recommendations for a 40 foot Terry Mobile Trailer Home

Expert Reply:

We carry two systems that are excellent at eliminating the type of trailer sway that you are describing. The Reese Strait-Line system that you referenced, # RP66130, would be a great choice. This system works to keep trailer sway from starting with a set of cams and detents in the spring bar ends. When turning the spring bar will move on the cam, but when traveling on the highway the spring bar will ride in the cam, forcing the trailer to stay straight. I added an installation video for this system for you to review.

To complete the Reese system you will need a hitch ball with a 1-1/4 inch shank like part # 63840.

The second system we have is the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System, # EQ90-00-1400, which has 4 point sway control, and uses metal on metal friction to control trailer sway. There are two points of friction in the weight distribution head and two points where the spring bars attach to the spring bar hangers. A local customer tried this system out recently and reported back to me that he likes this system just as well if not slightly better than his older Reese system. I added an installation video of the Equalizer system for you also.

To complete the Equal-i-zer system you will need the 2-1/4 inch long x 1-1/4 inch diameter shank hitch ball, EQ91-00-6140.

When selecting a weight distribution system you will need a system that has a tongue weight capacity range rated higher than your trailer tongue weight, fully loaded and ready to tow. Be sure to make provisions for the weight of any gear that you might load in the truck bed behind the rear axle because the weight distribution system will have to compensate for this added weight also. I added a link to an article we put together on weight distribution that you may find helpful.

Be sure when weighing your trailer that you stay within the vehicle and hitch weight ratings for towing.

expert reply by: Bob G