Recommended Sway Control Compatible With Aluminum Frame Car Hauler Trailer
Updated 06/19/2018 | Published 06/18/2018
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Question:
I just got a Lightning 8.5 X 20 all aluminum car hauler. It has a 2 X 5 aluminum frame. The trailer empty weight is 2,413#s. Trailer specs are 700# tongue weight and 7,000# load limit. Im pulling it with a 2015 Colorado. Which has the exact same limits as the trailer, 700# tongue weight and 7,000# load limit. When I was towing it home I felt quite a bit of sway. Granted it was windy and the trailer was empty, but I figured I would like to consider getting a weight distribution hitch with sway control. I was told by the dealer I should only use a trunnion type systems with an aluminum frame. The car Im going to haul in the trailer weighs 3,000#, so Im looking at about 5,400 to 5,500 total trailer weight. Im very concerned with damaging the aluminum frame. I definitely dont want to drill holes in the frame either. I was going to use a Curt, 17500 1,000/10,000 Tru-Track system. However the Curt, 17499 Tru-Track system is really closer to my load specs. 800/8,000. Cant understand though why the lesser rated system costs more? Ive also considered the Husky, 32217 or a Reese Straight Line system equivalent. Can you recommend any system over another? Ive read that using a system rated higher than I need would put unnecessary stress on the structure and a rough ride. Im just very concerned not to damage the aluminum frame. Thanks!
asked by: Dean C
Expert Reply:
With an aluminum frame trailer, you need to check with the trailer manufacturer to determine if weight distribution can be used. Many companies won't allow it.
To help with sway when a weight distribution system with sway control isn't an option, I recommend the Tuson Electronic Sway Control System for Electric Trailer Brakes # 335TSC-1000. This system uses your electric trailer brakes to assist with controlling trailer sway using a solid-state gyroscope to sense sway. I've attached a video to assist as well as an article on weight distribution and sway control.
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