 |
Trailer Sway Control Bars and Equalizers. What’s the Difference?There are two methods of trailer sway control. But, before we go talking about these methods you first need to make sure that you have the proper trailer tires. Trailer sway can be greatly reduced by using trailer tires that are in good condition, properly inflated and are of the correct weight rating. For more information check out my section on tires.
The friction sway control does exactly what it sounds like. It uses friction to resist pivotal movement and works against the effects that cause sway in a trailer. This system stiffens the coupling between the towing vehicle and your trailer. The degree that it stiffens can be adjusted for different trailer weights and towing conditions. This system is very simple and does not prevent sway but it aids in resisting sway once the forces of trailer sway have begun. The second and more advanced method is to use the Dual Cam Sway Control method. This trailer control system works to control sway before it starts and it only works when it is needed. When you are towing your trailer in a straight line, the cams are located on either side of the trailer’s A-frame hitch and are locked in position. With this rigid connection, the factors that cause sway such as high winds and passing vehicles are minimized. Usually, the cams are in this rigid position. When you turn the cams will automatically slide out and will permit full radius turns. When you have to maneuver quickly such as in a swerve or if a trailer wheel were to drop off the road, the cams will seek a straight line-towing angle and will aid the towing vehicle in retaining control. Equalizers Do Not Equal Trailer Sway Control!Many people believe that equalizer bars are a method of trailer sway control. This is not necessarily true, unless the equalizer bars feature sway control bars as well. Equalizer bars are used to help you distribute the weight on your towing vehicle for more control of your trailer.Equalizer bars are used in conjunction with a special weight equalizing hitch system. The bars allow you to transfer excess trailer hitch weight to the front or steer axle of the towing vehicle. This transfer of weight helps “equalize” the tongue weight of the trailer on both of the towing vehicles axles. When you do not use an equalizer it appears that the back of the truck is being pushed down by the tongue of the trailer and the trailer looks like it is diving forward. An equalizer system will lift the trailer hitch up and allows the towing vehicle greater control for safer hauling.
Return from Trailer Sway Control to Trailer411 Home
|
