Initial Setup - E-350 and Wildwood 29BHBS

Grit dog wrote:
So if I'm reading the last couple posts correctly a wdh and sway are to correct the conditions caused by too much or too little tongue weight.
Or to help white knuckle drivers that freak out at a x wind.
Fair enough, just offering my opinion and I don't see the necessity unless it's needed. If a guy can't hook a 1000 lb tongue weight to the back of a 1 ton and pull it, there's a problem that a wdh may solve for that person.
Why would it be needed if, god forbid, the trailer actually tows well as is?

I agree with you that a WD hitch is not necessary unless it is needed. However, almost any trailer will tow better by using a WD hitch vs one without. Putting the weight 4 or 5 feet behind the rear axle unloads the front axle of the tow vehicle which can affect steering, braking, and the way it rides.

One other consideration is the rating of the hitch receiver on the truck. Most older trucks had a 500lb tongue weight limit in weight carrying mode. Newer trucks made today have much higher limits so many trailers can be towed without overloading the hitch.

My trailer has a 1400lb tongue weight, which is within the weight carrying ability of my truck, but I would not think of towing without using the WD of my hitch. The ride is much smoother and steady because of the transfer of the lost weight from the front axle back to that axle. Also, I feel it just has to be easier on the rear tires and wheels because they are not carrying as much weight.


So, even if the trailer tows well without it, using the WD hitch will add much to the safety and enjoyment of towing a large travel trailer.
I think most people towing travel trailers feel about the same way. Hope this answers your questions. :)
Barney