Can a Gooseneck Horse Trailer Be Raised to Avoid Making Contact with 1997 Dodge Ram 2500

Published 11/16/2011

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit

(821)

$96.54

Timbren Trailer Suspension Enhancement System with Under Steel Frame - 15,000 lbs

(1)

$510.60

Question:

I have a 1997 Dodge Ram 2500 Club Cab 6.6ft bed pickup I purchased to pull my 16ft horse trailer. It is a stock 4x4 truck. When it is hooked up on level ground the tongue tube is all the way up at the minimum setting and it sits perfectly level. The rig looks perfect. However, if I get on any bends or binds the trailers rails very quickly get down and touch the bed rails or the tail gate. If I raise the tube to lessen this risk I will put the trailer pitched up in the front and it will drag on even the most mild terrain in the rear. The previous owner of the trailer had the tube set like it is in an F350 and damage to the rear occurred all the time and the trailer rode at a very steep angle. What is the right thing to do? How much pitch up in the front of a gooseneck is ok? Can I lift the suspension in the rear to compensate and keep it level? Any help would be great, I can send pics if that would help. Thanks!

asked by: J. M

Expert Reply:

I have a couple of possible solutions for you. First, though, you should check to make sure all of the suspension components are in good working order and replace any damaged or worn parts.

If the axle on the trailer is a 3 inch round axle and the spring seats are currently mounted to the bottom of the axle, using the Dexter Over-Under conversion kit, # K71-385-00, that you have referenced will provide a few more inches of height. But this will also change the center of gravity of the trailer and could increase sway problems.

Another option is to add suspension enhancement to the trailer using one of our Timbren systems specifically designed for trailers. I have included a link to them for you. There are certain parameters for these kits. For example, the # TTRA15252, is designed for trailers with an underbody steel frame. If this kit would work for you, it would raise the trailer and prevent bottoming out.

expert reply by: Michael H