Are 2 Sway Control Bars Needed for a 27 Foot StarCraft RV Trailer

Updated 08/27/2020 | Published 03/14/2012

Question:

I have a 27foot Starcraft RV trailer with a wd hitch, but no sway control and it needs it. If adding a curt 17200, would I buy two and put one on both sides? My wd hitch does have mounting points for the sway control balls on both sides, and Ive seen on some of the other sway control bars say to use two for trailers over 26.

asked by: David

Expert Reply:

You are correct, adding a second sway control bar, like the Curt Friction Style Sway Control, # 17200, is recommended for trailers over 26 feet long.

I might start out conservatively if the sway you are experiencing is not too bad, and order one sway control bar. A second can always be added if needed. If the sway you are experiencing in high winds or passing large trucks is causing the trailer to push you around quite a bit, you should go with two from the start.

If you are experiencing trailer sway on the highway when the wind and large trucks are not a factor, you should check your trailer loading and be sure that you have at least 10 percent of the gross trailer weight on the tongue of the trailer, up to 15 percent is acceptable. If not you should move some heavier items to the front of the trailer to help eliminate sway.

We have an informational article on weight distribution and sway control that you may find helpful, see link. The best defense against trailer sway is always proper trailer loading.

expert reply by: Robert G

Martin M.

8/13/2020

I have been looking at Hensley-Arrow and Pro-Pride 3P hitches all night. I don't know if the arguing between the two parties or the cost is worse. Would using two friction anti sway bars work just as well as these $3100 hitches. If so, is there any special way I should set them up? I am looking at buying a 28 ft trailer ( 31.8 total length) at 7100 dry. Tow vehicle is a 2016 Ram 2500 4door 6.7L if that is needed. Thanks

Jon G.

8/27/2020

I'm not quite sure what arguing you're talking about but what I know is that the friction sway control is an older system that works but is kind of outdated. Most of the people who use this system are either looking for an inexpensive sway control or they have used it in the past and they have the "if it ain't broke don't fix it" kind of mentality. I'm not familiar with the Hensley-Arrow and Pro-Pride 3P weight distribution systems so I wouldn't be able to speak to their performance very well. My favorite weight distribution system that we carry is the Reese Strait-Line. I've linked our selection for you to filter through if you're interested.

Helpful Links

dept-pg-weight_distribution_hitch.aspx

Martin M.

8/27/2020

@JonG The two factions- Hensley lovers and Pro Pride lovers- I think both are great systems. Thanks for your reply,