Solution for Rear Suspension of 2010 Honda Odyssey That Sags When Trailer Is Hitched

Updated 07/09/2015 | Published 07/07/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Coil SumoSprings Custom Helper Springs for Coil Spring Suspension - Rear Axle

(409)

$227.99

2" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000

(3870)

$21.42

Air Lift 1000 Air Helper Springs for Coil Springs - Rear

(1187)

$128.42

Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System

(6322)

$269.36

Question:

Hello, I have a 2010 Honda Odyssey and am towing a 3500 lb travel trailer. The van sags about 4-5 inches when hooked up. I am looking at Coil SumoSprings. I see this stiffens the ride ride but will it help with the sag or will I be better off with air bags? Thanks.

asked by: Jeremy K

Expert Reply:

As a starting point, I'd recommend having the rear suspension of your Odyssey examined to make sure everything's in good repair.

Both the # CSS-1168R Coil Sumo Springs and the Air Lift # AL60815 will affect your vehicle suspension whether the trailer is hitched or not. Both types of systems can have their drawbacks. The air springs can leak, and although the Coil Sumo Springs work as they are supposed to, I'm not a huge fan of using zip ties to hold a suspension component in place.The Timbren Aeon Springs, part # THROD2 won't come into play until cargo is added to the rear of your Odyssey or a trailer is hitched, which is why I prefer the Timbrens to the air bag or the coil spring inserts.

A weight distribution system like the Pro Series # PS49901 is rated for up to 550 lbs of tongue weight, which should work fine for your set-up. This system will level out the ride height between your front and rear axles, and includes a sway control component that will help resist trailer sway caused by crosswinds or turbulence from oncoming traffic. The beauty of this system is that nothing's altered on the vehicle. The system is only used when you're towing. For this reason, a weight distribution system is my preferred solution to the sag you're experiencing. The system includes a 2-5/16 trailer ball and the weight distributing shank. If you need a 2 inch ball, go with part # A-90.

I'll link you to an FAQ article that shows how to verify your fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight, as well as to another article that explains how weight distribution works and some installation videos that I hope you'll find helpful.