Options For Controlling Sway On Vehicle That Cannot Use A Weight Distribution Hitch
Updated 05/13/2025 | Published 05/10/2025
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Question:
Good morning, I bought a new BMW x5 and tow a small 3200 travel trailer. I need to remove the WDH due to the unibody frame of this new vehicle and am now looking for sway control like the Reese 83660 or Curt 17200 or something similar. My main question is what do you recommend that would be sway control that wouldnt have to be removed before backing up? Thank you!
asked by: Darcy T
Expert Reply:
Hello Darcy, thanks for reaching out. If you cannot use a WD hitch, the Friction Sway Control Kits like the Reese # 83660 and the Curt # C17200 are one option for controlling sway. The downside of these is you cannot back up, so you would have to disconnect the friction bar before going into reverse.
Aside from that, the only other option for sway control would be an electronic sway control system like the Curt True Course Advanced Bluetooth Trailer Sway Control # C94VV. This mounts on the trailer and plugs into the 7-way. It prevents sway by activating the trailers brakes independently of the driver and brake controller. This helps to reduce sway but it also means you will be riding your brakes way more often so it can cause your brake pads to wear way faster and it can decrease your fuel economy.
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on Weight Distribution Hitch
Darcy T.
5/13/2025
Thank you for the suggestion. I actually already have the Curt True Course. This is an interesting alternative that will engage when the vehicle and trailer get more than 15 degree out of alignment. I can confirm it does work as it will detect sway and activate when you go in and out of small round-abouts! Unfortunately, this still leaves a lot of room driving down the highway for me to feel too much sway. I will get one of the other sway controls as mentioned above to supplement.