Which is Better, Friction or Dual-Cam Sway Control

Updated 02/05/2014 | Published 02/04/2014

Question:

I have a draw tite round bar hitch with 1000lb bars. Im pulling a 5600lb, 23 ft trailer. Should I use a friction sway control or the dual cam? Which is better? My tow vehicle is a 2004 Ford expedition, 5.4l, 3.73 axle,hd tow.

asked by: Dean

Expert Reply:

If given the choice I would always choose dual-cam sway control over friction because dual-cam system are proactive, stopping sway before it starts. Friction systems are reactive and work to stop sway after it has already started.

To use dual-cam sway control your spring bars will have to have the hook ends on your bars. If your bars do not have the hook ends you would either need to replace the bars or go with a friction sway control system using # 83660.

If you wanted to replace the bars I would need to know either the part number of the weight distribution system you have or its approximate age. Given it is a Draw-Tite brand it is probably a little older which means the newer spring bars will not fit the head. So then you would need to replace the head as well and at that point because of cost you may as well get a new system.

expert reply by: Michael H