How To Use Anti Sway Bars On A Travel Trailer

February 18, 2023 Post a Comment

What are Trailer Sway Bars and are They Necessary? RV Owner HQ from rvownerhq.com

Travel trailers are a great way to enjoy the great outdoors with all the comforts of home. However, they can be a bit tricky to tow. One of the biggest challenges is dealing with sway. Sway is when the trailer starts to move side to side, which can be dangerous and cause accidents. Thankfully, there's a solution: anti sway bars. In this article, we'll discuss how to use anti sway bars on a travel trailer.

What are Anti Sway Bars?

Anti sway bars are a type of suspension system that helps to distribute weight evenly across the trailer and tow vehicle. They work by connecting the trailer to the tow vehicle with a set of bars that are designed to limit the amount of sway that occurs. This makes towing safer and more stable.

Anti sway bars come in different sizes and strengths depending on the weight of your trailer and the conditions you'll be towing in. It's important to choose the right size and strength for your specific trailer to ensure maximum effectiveness.

How to Install Anti Sway Bars

Installing anti sway bars on your travel trailer is a relatively simple process. First, you'll need to attach the bars to the trailer's frame using the included hardware. Then, you'll need to attach the other end of the bars to the hitch on your tow vehicle. Finally, you'll need to adjust the tension on the bars to ensure that they are tight enough to limit sway, but not so tight that they restrict movement.

It's important to note that anti sway bars are not a substitute for proper weight distribution. You'll still need to make sure that your trailer is properly loaded and that the weight is evenly distributed. Anti sway bars simply add an extra layer of stability and safety.

Other Tips for Preventing Sway

1. Slow Down

One of the easiest ways to prevent sway is to simply slow down. The faster you go, the more likely your trailer is to sway. Slowing down can help to reduce sway and make your towing experience safer and more comfortable.

2. Keep Weight Balanced

As mentioned earlier, proper weight distribution is key to preventing sway. Make sure that your heaviest items are loaded towards the front of the trailer and that the weight is evenly distributed from side to side.

3. Use a Weight Distribution Hitch

A weight distribution hitch can also help to prevent sway. These hitches work by redistributing the weight of the trailer and tow vehicle to create a more stable towing experience. They can be especially helpful if you have a large or heavy trailer.

4. Avoid Windy Conditions

Finally, it's best to avoid towing in windy conditions whenever possible. Wind can easily cause your trailer to sway, even if you have anti sway bars and a weight distribution hitch. If you must tow in windy conditions, be sure to slow down and take extra precautions to ensure your safety.

In conclusion, using anti sway bars on a travel trailer is a great way to increase stability and safety while towing. However, it's important to also practice proper weight distribution and take other precautions to prevent sway. By following these tips, you can enjoy a safe and comfortable towing experience.