BurbMan wrote:
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For GMW, the HA and the Pro-Pride are the only hitches available that use a geometric design called a 4-bar linkage. It connects the trailer to the truck in such a way that the only way that the trailer can move side to side is by moving forward at the same time. When you are towing, the tension in the hitch created by the truck pulling the trailer keeps the trailer in a straight line without the need for any friction sway controls. Hence the reason tongue weight (or lack of) doesn't affect stability. There is a sticky at the top of the Travel Trailer forum called "Hensley Arrow: How it really works" that I would recommend, all of the engineering discussion is in that thread. In short, you in theory tow with 0 lb tongue weight but I wouldn't advise it...but I wouldn't hesitate at less than 10% either.
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Yes, I do understand "how" pivot point projection hitches work, the only point I was trying to make was that from what I have heard about them is the correct way to set up a tow vehicle and trailer with either of those brands, is to have tongue weight.
That was the only point I was trying to get across, was that to state they ignore the presence of or lack of tongue weight in their sway control may be correct, but it may lead a beginner to think they can buy that hitch, then set up the trailer with zero tongue weight.
There are sometimes beginners that think they can fudge on buying a "adequate tow vehicle" if they simply "balance" the trailer as though it's a teeter-totter to minimize tongue weight.
Controlling sway is not the only reason we use tongue weight.
There is no doubt the ha-ha and the propride are awesome hitching solutions. If I had a "problem vehicle-trailer combo" then I would certainly consider one ( probably the propride, if I were spending the money ).