Hensley Arrow: How does it REALLY work?
There have been several discussions on this hitch that have become somewhat 'controversial'. I am NOT trying to stir this controversy/bashing back up. Instead, I'd like to see a good, intelligent di...
Forum Discussion
Great points/suggestions, Tim and Ron. Glad to see this topic generate some good, intelligent discussion. That was the intention. :)
I think Tim makes an excellent point, in the differentiation between the 'apparent' pivot point, and the 'virtual' pivot point. That might explain some of what I (and probably many others) don't understand.
I have seen two different very detailed analsysises (spelling?) done, to try to determine the 'apparent' pivot point for a Hensley. Both came up with very consistent, similar results, that showed a pivot point ~ 47" forward of the trailer ball. After doing some measuring on our rig, I found in my case that would mean the (apparent) pivot point would be about 20" behind the rear axle of our Excursion.
Given the way the Hensely completely eliminates sway for us, I find it hard to believe that having the pivot point 20" behind the rear axle could do this. Always thought there was more to it than that, and perhaps there is.
Even though the apparent pivot point is 20" behind the rear axle, maybe the 'virtual' pivot (or 'instantaneous point of rotation') point is different, and may be much further forward, at least when in a straight line? This would explain why the Hensley seems to eliminate sway completely, regardless of tow vehicle size or trailer length.
Will
I think Tim makes an excellent point, in the differentiation between the 'apparent' pivot point, and the 'virtual' pivot point. That might explain some of what I (and probably many others) don't understand.
I have seen two different very detailed analsysises (spelling?) done, to try to determine the 'apparent' pivot point for a Hensley. Both came up with very consistent, similar results, that showed a pivot point ~ 47" forward of the trailer ball. After doing some measuring on our rig, I found in my case that would mean the (apparent) pivot point would be about 20" behind the rear axle of our Excursion.
Given the way the Hensely completely eliminates sway for us, I find it hard to believe that having the pivot point 20" behind the rear axle could do this. Always thought there was more to it than that, and perhaps there is.
Even though the apparent pivot point is 20" behind the rear axle, maybe the 'virtual' pivot (or 'instantaneous point of rotation') point is different, and may be much further forward, at least when in a straight line? This would explain why the Hensley seems to eliminate sway completely, regardless of tow vehicle size or trailer length.
Will
