Forum Discussion

Explorer III

Mar 02, 2015

What is a "sway bar" on rv.net

Lots of posts talking about "sway bar(s)" - do people mean the weight distribution bars?

Or a sway control - flat bar with it's own small ball on the receiver and a set of brake pads you pinched down with a set bolt - like we used in the early 80's on a tent trailer?

:h

13 Replies

time2roll
Nomad
Mar 02, 2015
Sway Bar is to control body roll not trailer sway.

Trailer sway control is generally use with a few extra terms or in context with a hitch etc.

Although I do wonder if a sway bar reducing trailer body roll would assist with trailer sway. Have not read of anyone trying this approach.
Bedlam
Moderator
Mar 02, 2015
There are also stabilizer bars attached to the axle and frame of your tow vehicle which are often called sway bars...
ScottG
Nomad
Mar 02, 2015
It can actually mean two different things.
One is the device that limits trailer sway and the other is part of a truck or motorhomes suspension that limits how much it leans.