Can Weight Distribution System be Used on Homesteader 7x12 Tandem Axle V-Nose Motorcycle Trailer  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Thank you for providing a photo of your Homesteader v-nose motorcycle trailer. The design of this trailer does not allow use of a weight distribution system. The V-nose front of the trailer enclosure blocks access to the portion of the trailer frame where weight distribution lift brackets typically mount. For example, the Reese weight distribution/sway control system shown in the attached photo, part # RP66074, uses 5-1/2-inch lift brackets that attach to the trailer frame centered 30-inches behind the hitch ball.

We do offer some sway control systems (without weight distribution) such as the Reese Friction Sway Control Kit # 83660 but this requires 24-inches distance from the center of the hitch ball to the center of the sway control ball. The edge of the ball mounting plate would extend even further rearward than the ball and would not fit within the 23-inches of space on your trailer frame. I checked all of the stand-alone sway control systems we offer and all require this same minimum distance.

Since you are feeling some shuddering in the front end when towing the loaded trailer you can try loading the motorcycles more forward within the trailer to increase the tongue weight load on the hitch. If a trailer has too much of its cargo weight in the rear and not enough on the coupler the trailer can tend to sway more. I suggest experimenting with loading the bike(s) in different configurations to see if one loading scheme provides better stability.

You can also try using a cushioned ball mount to see if this helps to minimize the shuddering. We offer cushioned ball mounts with a range of rise and drop; these 2-inch Class IV mounts can be seen on the link provided.

expert reply by: Adam R

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