Troubleshooting Travel Trailer Dragging Noise When Just Starting to Pull Trailer

Published 10/22/2018

Question:

Travel Trailer sometimes when just starting out pulling a 32ft travel we hear something draging when we get out look under nother any ideas what it might be thank you

asked by: Jeffrey H

Expert Reply:

When you first start pulling a long travel trailer like you are stating, the back end of your truck and coupler on your trailer will sometimes drop due to the torque on the rear wheels of your truck. Even though this is a small drop from the suspension and axle, it can be enough for chains, or other low clearance objects to draw and then when you stop to look it lets back up to its non-towing height.

If you suspect this is the case you can either look at suspension enhancement for your truck or you can look at weight distribution with integrated sway control to help distribute the trailer weight. The latter would be where I would start as distributing the weight is a great option to make towing an all around better experience. I've attached an article to assist in finding the best fit for your trailer and have linked the page to them as well.

If you want to let me know your specific trailer I'd be happy to give a recommendation based on the total tongue weight as outlined in the attached article.

You will want to determine what is causing the noise as it could be chains, a jack, landing gear or other components that you should be aware of. If there isn't anything on the trailer, that noise being internal with your truck is a definite concern to have a mechanic check.

expert reply by: Jason S