Forum Discussion

Fred_C__Dobbs's avatar
Sep 25, 2023

A-Liner Sway

Apologize if this is already covered—did do a quick look and didn’t find it. I’m looking for suggestions for sway control on my A-Liner Ranger 12. On the road, weight is about 2000 lbs. and tongue weight is 175. We’re towing it with a Lexus GX 460. Generally, sway isn’t too bad but have experienced significant sway when being passed by a semi going the same direction and when said passing occurs through a road cut. My theory is that in road cuts the air being pushed by semis pushes harder against the A-Liner since it is in effect contained somewhat by the cut/berms. All thoughts appreciated.
  • Do you need the 20 gallons fresh water? Maybe try buying 3 of the 7 gallon Aqua-Tainer water containers stored as far forward as you can and the fresh tank empty. Then fill the fresh tank from the Aqua-Tainers when you get to your destination.
    Link
  • Tongue weight is to low. Needs to be 200+ lbs. Air the A liners tires up to the max on the sidewall.
    You should be able to rip down the hwy at 70 without concern providing the A's tires are up to it.
  • And what you’re describing that you’re experiencing isn’t “trailer sway” in the true sense of the definition. Although a little more tongue weight would help.
    I couldnt imagine installing sway control on a little ole trailer like that being towed with a vehicle that large and capable compared to the size of the trailer.
    First question is ask yourself what your basis for comparison is. IE how much towing experience you have or don’t have. Semis and cross winds push cars and light trucks with trailers around. Whether what you’re experiencing is excessive or normal is subjective.
    But the tongue is a bit light. Is it better with no water? Try some extra weight forward to increase the tongue weight. However you can effect that.
  • Sway controls are a poor band aid fix for lack of proper tongue weight. Trailers need a minimum of 10% of total weight on the tongue to track properly.
  • You need about 250 pound tongue weight. 15% or 300 pounds would be even better.
  • Thanks! Been trying to get 60% front of the axle but not sure how to measure? Interestingly, A-Liner has the 20 gallon water tank (160 lbs) aft of the axle.