Troubleshooting Trailer That Rocks Side to Side While Being Towed

Updated 02/23/2016 | Published 02/22/2016

Question:

we have a 2011 Prime Time Crusader 5th wheel, 35foot total weight fully loaded, 11500lb. While towing, it seems to rock side to side a lot. Id like to cut down on this a bit. Would stronger leaf springs help limit this movement some? The axles are 5200lbs each and the springs are 4 leaf that sit on top of each axle. Any help?

asked by: Ron

Expert Reply:

Is your trailer sitting as level as possible? It almost sounds like your trailer is sitting nose high based on the movement you described. You will want your trailer sitting as level as possible with at least 6 inches between the trailer overhang and bed rails of the truck. You can change the height of the nose of the trailer with the fifth wheel hitch head and the pin box height.

Other than that check the conditions of the suspension components to make sure nothing is worn out and would cause this movement.

expert reply by: Jameson C