Hey y'all. We just upgraded from TT to a 5vr. Was wondering if a pin box stabilizer is needed while were camping. If so, we would like the kind that locks to the pin so someone just can't make off with it while were gone from camp. I've looked at a few and was kinda leaning toward a BAL stabilizer but not sure if it locks to the pin. On the other hand, If I install JT strong arms will this eliminate the need for a pin box stabilizer or do you need them to help support the front of the coach? Thanks

We put a Steadyfast system on our fiver and it made a huge differnce. Only three handles to turn and installation tool around three hours.

Neither is needed. Spend a few nights in your trailer first. See whether others moving around inside bothers you or not. (Usually it will be the one asleep in the bedroom that feels others moving in the rear).Generally, the Strongarm style stabilizers take more of the wiggle out than do the pin box types. You'll never get all of it, as the tires and trailer suspension still allow some motion, but it will improve things a lot. But see if it bothers you first, many never need anything.

I don't think you need to worry about someone stealing your pin box stabilizer. Most people are trying to sell them after a couple years. Install JTs or similar if you really want to reduce movement. The front of a 5er does not need additional support in any case.

Forget the pin box stabilizer and put on JT's. Best mod I ever did to my 5er

New 5vr. Pin stabilizer or JT strong arms | Good Sam Community

larry_barnhart
Explorer
Mar 31, 2016
I have said many times the best thing about a JT or similar product is on a windy day they are awesome.
chevman
Flapper
Explorer
Mar 31, 2016
N-Trouble wrote:

Anyone who claims its "not needed" simply hasnt experienced what its like to have a rock steady trailer. If you had the JTs or Steadyfast on your trailer then took it off you WILL notice how much these things move around without much effort.

Actually, I did put them on my 5th. And they do make a difference. BUT, in my case, while much better, I would never call it "rock steady". Too many variables to make such a blanket statement. Hence the advice to evaluate first. Every 5th is different. If the wiggle bothers the OP, then by all means get them. But if it doesn't, there are so many other RV add-ons that the money could instead be put toward.....
bpounds
Nomad
Mar 31, 2016
N-Trouble wrote:

Anyone who claims its "not needed" simply hasnt experienced what its like to have a rock steady trailer. If you had the JTs or Steadyfast on your trailer then took it off you WILL notice how much these things move around without much effort.

Yeah? So what? It's a trailer.
N-Trouble
Explorer
Mar 31, 2016
bpounds wrote:
grayghost58 wrote:
Hey y'all. We just upgraded from TT to a 5vr. Was wondering if a pin box stabilizer is needed while were camping. If so, we would like the kind that locks to the pin so someone just can't make off with it while were gone from camp. I've looked at a few and was kinda leaning toward a BAL stabilizer but not sure if it locks to the pin. On the other hand, If I install JT strong arms will this eliminate the need for a pin box stabilizer or do you need them to help support the front of the coach? Thanks

Did wiggle bother you in your TT? If not, I would wait and see if you feel the fiver needs it. I have never been tempted to add anything. Don't need it.

Anyone who claims its "not needed" simply hasnt experienced what its like to have a rock steady trailer. If you had the JTs or Steadyfast on your trailer then took it off you WILL notice how much these things move around without much effort.
Racine96
Explorer
Mar 30, 2016
Strongarms, you will notice the difference.
bpounds
Nomad
Mar 30, 2016
grayghost58 wrote:
Hey y'all. We just upgraded from TT to a 5vr. Was wondering if a pin box stabilizer is needed while were camping. If so, we would like the kind that locks to the pin so someone just can't make off with it while were gone from camp. I've looked at a few and was kinda leaning toward a BAL stabilizer but not sure if it locks to the pin. On the other hand, If I install JT strong arms will this eliminate the need for a pin box stabilizer or do you need them to help support the front of the coach? Thanks

Did wiggle bother you in your TT? If not, I would wait and see if you feel the fiver needs it. I have never been tempted to add anything. Don't need it.
ependydad
Explorer
Mar 30, 2016
Halmfamily wrote:
We put a Steadyfast system on our fiver and it made a huge differnce. Only three handles to turn and installation tool around three hours.

I started with a JT knockoff and then got the SteadyFast system. Hands-down, I prefer the SteadyFast system. Less bars, less moving pieces, and the tightening handle is easier on the hands.
Wiscampsin
Explorer
Mar 28, 2016
Another vote for JT Strongarms.
Bird_Freak
Explorer II
Mar 28, 2016
BB_TX wrote:
I don't think you need to worry about someone stealing your pin box stabilizer. Most people are trying to sell them after a couple years. Install JTs or similar if you really want to reduce movement.

The front of a 5er does not need additional support in any case.
Ditto! I found a new stabilizer in the garbage bin at Jekyll Island this year. We have home made JT set up.
alexleblanc
Explorer
Mar 28, 2016
Flapper wrote:
Neither is needed. Spend a few nights in your trailer first. See whether others moving around inside bothers you or not. (Usually it will be the one asleep in the bedroom that feels others moving in the rear).
Generally, the Strongarm style stabilizers take more of the wiggle out than do the pin box types. You'll never get all of it, as the tires and trailer suspension still allow some motion, but it will improve things a lot. But see if it bothers you first, many never need anything.

I second this advise, I have thing extra on my unit now and its nearly movement free compared to my last TT. You may be perfectly happy with how it works, try it first before you spend money on it.