How to Properly Set the Tension on the Curt Sway Control Bar # 17200

Question

Question:

how tight should the handle on sway bar be tightened and how tight should the adjustment bolt be set.

asked by: Ron C

0

Expert Reply:

The handle is actually the on/off switch for the unit and the bolt under the handle is the tension adjustment bolt. You will need to turn the On/Off handle clockwise (tighter) until the handle will stay firmly in place parallel with the main body of the sway control.

Start out setting the sway control by testing with the adjustment bolt at the factory preset level of friction. You will need to perform a series of road tests with the loaded trailer. If there is not enough sway control adjust the tension bolt 1/4 turn clockwise (tighter) if there is too much tension adjust the tension bolt counter clockwise (looser) 1/4 turn. On subsequent trips increase or decrease tension by turning the adjusting bolt in 1/4 turn increments until the desired level of sway control is achieved.

A couple of things you should also be aware of are that you should never have the handle in the on position when backing a trailer and the unit should be turned off when driving in slick conditions.

expert reply by: Robert G

0

click to enlarge

Angela A.

5/23/2020

We are using the Curt friction sway bar. We were trying to adjust the tension adjustment bolt. It will NOT move. Any suggestions?

Chris R.

5/26/2020

The adjustment bolt does come pre-tightened at the factory. There's a good chance you won't need to turn it at all - did you take the trailer out for a test drive and find that it needed to be tightened? If so, you'll probably just need a longer wrench for leverage because it's definitely not loose. You just need to turn it a 1/4 of a rotation to adjust the tension properly.

Angela A.

5/30/2020

@ChrisR yes we did take it for a test drive. For now we purchased a second one for more control

Paul

9/10/2024

This all makes sense except what would indicate if it were too loose or too tight? Assuming too loose I'd still have swaying? What about too tight? How would I know if it's too tight?

Jameson C.

9/10/2024

@Paul If there's no reduction in sway then it's not tight enough and you'd basically want to try increasing the tightness until you feel a difference. Too tight is harder to articulate but if you can see the unit obviously straining around corners that would be a good indicator.

Answer 1

Yes, you can use the Reese Friction Sway control part #83660 without a weight distribution system. You would just need to use the tab part #RP26003 on the ball mount as well.

view full answer...

Answer 2

A friction type sway control unit like the Curt #17200 should be adjusted so that it is not easy to move by hand, but still can be moved by the greater force from the moving trailer. You will need to do some road testing to find the correct…

view full answer...

Answer 3

The longevity of the CURT Friction Style Sway Control System, #17200, or any similar system is going to depend on how it is used, how it is set, driving style and conditions, and any number of other factors. Even a rough estimate is tough to gauge.…

view full answer...

Answer 4

Hey Duane, for the replacement screen and frame for the Ventline roof vent you found with the part number VD0434 we have the #BVC0573-31 in birch white or #BVC0573-41 in polar white. Here are the different height garnishes we offer as well. Leg depth…

view full answer...

Answer 5

The 113/108 L is the load index which is normally translated to pounds capacity. For instance the 113 is 2,535 lbs maximum capacity and 108 is 2,205 lbs. For instance the Westlake ST205/75R14 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range D #274-000012 has a…

view full answer...

Answer 6

You can use the Curt friction style sway control, #17200 on the left or right side. You will need to loosen the handle and the other bolt below it, pull the inside arm out, flip it over, then reinsert it. You will then need to unscrew the handle on…

view full answer...

Answer 7

You are exactly correct. Birch white is more of a cream color, while polar white is a very bright white.

view full answer...

Answer 8

Hey there Michelle! While weight distribution systems are supposed to get the truck and trailer as level as possible, they are not complete miracle workers and won't make both 100% level in all situations. In fact, Andersen has a section of the…

view full answer...

Answer 9

That's an excellent question, and the answer is there isn't a hard-and-fast number that means a weight distribution hitch is required. The best way to assess this is if the sag is noticeable, either visually or when towing. You really want to…

view full answer...

Answer 10

Sounds like you are trying to replace the cable on the breakaway switch of your trailer. If you are trying to pull the plunger out you would not need to put any current on any of the wires to get the plunger to release. It is pretty hard to release…

view full answer...

Answer 11

Yes, you could use the Fastway Zip Coiled Trailer Breakaway Cable #FA80-01-2140 that you referenced on your travel trailer. This is a universal design that can basically fit any breakaway kit as long as the length of the cable is adequate. The length…

view full answer...

Answer 12

The RVIA (Recreational Vehicle Industry Association) recommends that the trailer break away cable be slightly longer than the safety chains. The logic behind that is that the brakes will apply should the safety chains fail.

view full answer...

How to Properly Set the Tension on the Curt Sway Control Bar # 17200

Product Page this Question was Asked From

Featured Help Information

Instructions

Miscellaneous Media

Continue Researching