Troubleshooting Trailer Bounce on a Triple Axle Trailer

Updated 06/10/2014 | Published 06/09/2014

Question:

I just purchased a 9 ton tri axle with slipper springs. I took it for attest pull around the sellers town with approx a 5000 lb load on it a VW Bug. It pulled fine got up to 35-40 mph. We unloaded and I headed home with the trailer and every time I hit 35-50 mph there is a nasty hop/bounce to the trailer. Any suggestions.

asked by: Michael

Expert Reply:

There are a couple things that you can do that will help with the sway and bounce on your trailer when you are pulling it with your vehicle. The first thing you can try to do is tow the trailer level. If the tongue on the trailer is high, then the trailer will not have as much stability if it were level. I attached an FAQ article on picking out the correct rise/drop ball mount so that you can tow level.

Another thing you can check is the suspension of the trailer. Worn out components can cause all sorts of weird behavior like sway or bounce. While you are there you should check the condition of the trailer tires. I attached a link to a page that has all of the trailer suspension components we carry.

Low tongue weight can also cause bounce, and since the trailer only bounced when unloaded this could be it. Getting the trailer to sit more level should help with this.

expert reply by: Jameson C