What You Should Know about Using Hitches to Control Travel Trailer Sway
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Travel trailers are some of the most common recreation vehicles. They are particularly popular as they can be towed by a broad range of commonly available vehicles such as vans, trucks, SUVs, or even a car in the case of small trailers. Also, the idea of traveling with a travel trailer in tow can be exciting. However, these trailers are prone to sway which is a leading cause of accidents.
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Trailer sway which is the unwanted motion by trailers can result in accidents in extreme cases. For this reason, drivers must always consider trailer sway when they head out on the highway with a travel trailer. Sway control enhances stability by slowing side to side movement that is often caused by passing vehicles and windy conditions. Modern technology brings a new level to sway control systems incorporating more efficient solutions.
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There are many elements to consider in controlling travel trailer sway. They include the size of the tow vehicle, traffic, speed, driver reactions, trailer loading, the length of the trailer, as well as equipment used. While it is imperative that you understand all these factors, most of them are hard to control once you hit the road. Your choice of equipment is one factor that can always under your control. Proper equipment is vital in managing the possibility of sway.
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The hitch is the primary piece of equipment when hitching a tow vehicle to a trailer. They allow for a secure hold and maneuverability as well as provide the required safety when dealing with heavy loads. Your choice of trailer hitch is probably the most important decision you will make in towing safety. Choosing the right travel trailer sway control system is an excellent way to ensure that you, your family, and others on the road safe.
Always select a sway control hitch that will support more weight than what you plan on towing. The more weight it can support properly the better. Additionally, there may come a time when you will need extra weight support.
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Sway control hitches use different methods to ensure that your travel trailer does not sway when being towed. Some use simple friction sway while others employ more complex multi-point sway control solutions to help reduce or eliminate sway. Decide between conventional sway control hitches and pivot point projection hitches. Convectional hitches use friction force to regulate the sway force of the trailer. Pivot point projection hitch can be used to eliminate a sway before it begins. It is essential that you do proper research before purchasing any of these hitches.