321 KZ Spree Camper Towed By 2010 GMC 2500 Has Poor Ride When Using Eaz-Lift Weight Distribution Kit
Updated 08/13/2014 | Published 08/11/2014
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Question:
I have a 2010 321 Kz Spree over length of 34, gvwr of 7900, pulling with a 2010 GMC 2500 Dmax Sierra 4x4 with air bags at 10lbs. The trailer came with a 14000 lbs Eaz-lift with 1000 lbs round bars, and sway control. I level my trailer an set my hitch height to same and keep my angle of hitch tilt level or down slightly toward trailer. Also it appears that my couple is mounted low on the a frame. When setup this way Im only able to get 1 link in my WD bars, even after lifting the truck and trailer after coupled. Also, I have a VERY rigid ride. All rhythmic bumps at speed cause the truck to take the brunt of the vibrations. I would prefer a smoother ride with sway control. Im looking at either correcting my problem with new bars or better setup for this hitch or replacing. Would you recommend lighter bars? Or a different hitch? If hitch, which one? Thanks!
asked by: Jason
Expert Reply:
First, lets make sure your system is properly rated for the trailer. If your trailer is loaded to the max GVWR, and you have 200 + lbs of gear in your truck bed behind the rear axle, you are AT the 1000 lb capacity of the spring bars, which might explain why your trailer is riding like a buckboard. This is why you'll want to confirm the fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of the trailer. I've linked you to an article that explains a few methods of determining your trailer's tongue weight.
If you find the trailer tongue weight plus the weight of anything stowed in the truck bed behind the rear axle is within the 1000 lb tongue weight capacity of the spring bars, then you'll want to consult the instructions for your Eaz-Lift system, and set up the system from scratch. With a similar Reese system, you'd want no less than 5 chain links being used. I believe the Eaz-Lift system would be pretty similar. Since you said you're only using one link, I'm suspecting that something's out of adjustment.
If you find you are right at the capacity of the spring bars, or have decided you want to upgrade to a newer system with integrated sway control, I'd recommend the Reese Strait-Line system, part # RP66084. This system is rated for trailers with tongue weights ranging from 600-1200 lbs, and the integrated Dual Cam sway control system will stop sway from occurring before it can start. Since longer trailers are more susceptible to trailer sway (more surface area for crosswinds or turbulence to act against), this sway control system would be the best option for your application.
The weight distributing shank is included with the system I recommended, but the trailer ball with 1-1/4 inch shank is sold separately. For a 2 inch ball, use part # A-90 or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch ball.
