5 x 8 Utility Trailer Bounces Wen Being Towed With a Load

Published 06/07/2016

Question:

I just recently purchased a utility trailer that 5 by 8 with 15 inch trailer tires on it brand new 2016. It is a flat bed trailer. It bounces even with a load on it evenly. I was hauling lumber to put sides on it. Could I put regular tires on it? Im pulling it with a 2012 Subaru Outback. I use to have a camping trailer but the tongue weight was too much for this car so I purchased this trailer to convert it into a small camping trailer. I have plans to go camping. Would changing the tires help? The brand name of this trailer which is made in Chehalis, WA is Bulldog Trailer. I can tell you where the axle position is it is located in the middle of the decking part of the trailer and is closer to the back of the trailer.

asked by: Bob Z

Expert Reply:

There are a few things that could be causing your trailer to bounce when its under load. You'll first want to make sure that the trailer is being towed level, or at least within an inch or two +/-. If the trailer is more than an inch or two out of level, get a ball mount with the proper rise/drop so the trailer is level.

You'll also want to make sure that the fully loaded trailer's tongue weight is somewhere between 10-15 percent of the fully loaded trailer weight. If the tongue weight is below 10 percent, move some more weight forward, which should help. I've linked you to an FAQ article that describes a few methods of determining your trailer's tongue weight.

Finally, a bouncing trailer can indicate a damaged suspension or axle, which is unlikely as the trailer is new, but it's worth checking. Check for uneven tire wear. Uneven tire wear is a clue that the suspension is damaged, the trailer is being overloaded or the tires aren't being inflated properly.

Unlike passenger vehicle tires which will have an acceptable range of inflation, trailer tires should be kept inflated to the maximum pressure rating listed on the tire sidewall. Make sure that the weight of the trailer and its contents doesn't exceed the combined load range of the tires.

I'm not certain what you mean by 'regular' tires, but I'll assume you're speaking of passenger car tires. Because they have a thicker sidewall to support the vertical load applied to them, trailer tires are better suited for use on a trailer. I wouldn't recommend using passenger vehicle tires.

expert reply by: Mike L