What will Help My 3,500 Pound Tandem Axle Set-Up Travel Trailer with Sway when Big Trucks Pass?  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Hello Jeremy,

This is a very common issue with campers, especially with the factory suspension. We have some options that will help with this issue, but I do not recommend going to a stiffer (heavier) leaf spring that what your axles are rated for, by going with something too stiff it will not allow your suspension to move properly and can actually be damaging over time.

A great maintenance free option is the SumoSprings Trailer Helper Springs, these really come into play wind comes into place and your trailer wants to roll from side to side. You will need one set per axle and will need to choose from one of the following:

- Underslung suspension (leaf springs under axle) # TSS-106-40

- Overslung suspension (leaf springs over axle) # TSS-107-40

Another great option would be to use a weight distribution system (WDH). When choosing the right WDH you want to be as close to your loaded tongue weight as possible. Since you have (2) 3,500 pound axles your GVWR should be around 7K, your loaded tongue weight should be 10-15% of your total weight.

So if you are 7K loaded that will put you between 700-1,050 pounds, in that case you will want the Reese Steadi-Flex Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 12K GTW, 1.2K TW # RP66560. The # RP66560 works with a loaded tongue weight of 600-1,200 pounds which should put you right into your sweet spot.

If you still have factory shackles straps and equalizers, it always help to beef them up a little. Most tandem axle set-ups have 2 1/4" shackles from middled eye to eye, in that case you will want the MORryde Suspension Upgrade Kit for Tandem Axle Trailers - 2-1/4" Long Shackle Straps # MR46ZR.

For an upgraded equalizer, the Dexter E-Z Flex Suspension Kit - Double-Eye Springs - Tandem Axle - 6,000 lbs # K71-652-00 would be great, I attached an image of the hole spacing so you can see if it matches up to your current equalizer.

It will help to do all these upgrades overtime to get things dialed in just right, they do not all need to be done overnight. I recommend starting with the WDH or the SumoSprings first, they will be your most noticeable upgrade with the issue you are having.

I attached some review videos for you to check out. If something isn't matching up on the parts that I recommended please let me know what you do have so I can find the right parts.

Any big trips coming up that you are trying to get things fixed up for? If so, where are you headed?

expert reply by: Kate F

0

Dexter E-Z Flex Equalizer Dimensions
(click to enlarge)

Kate F.

9/12/2025

Hey Jeremy, Did you have a chance to try out the SumoSprings or the weight distribution system for your camper? I'm curious to know if they helped reduce the wind effect and improve your ride. Your experience could really help others dealing with similar issues.