Which tripod stabilizer?

[8ntw8tn]

I've decided to try using a tripod stabilizer while we're spending the winter in the Texas Hill Country. After a reasonable amount of time researching them I've decided on the Ultra-Fab stabilizer and have tentatively narrowed it even further to the aluminum model. According to the specs I've read the aluminum model will support 1200# while the steel model supports up to 1500#. My question, for those in the know, is whether or not that additional 300# is really necessary or desirable, since most of the weight is still being supported by the landing gear. Our 5er has a listed dry weight of 11,200, but I'm estimating it's a good 13k with all of the 'stuff' we bring south with us. I'm OK with buying the steel model if necessary; it's even $20 less expensive but weighs about 20# more. I just don't want to horse that extra weight around if I don't have to, even if it is only twice a year. Opinions?

[craig7h]

I guess I am one of the few that have and like the tripod. I have the b&l one made from steel of some sort. If I remember correctly the reason for getting that model was the way it slipped over the king pin. I beleive there is a big difference between the two. The steel has a larger capture opening where as the alum. has more of a sleeve for the king pin. At least thats how I remember it. Both will do as you are correct the landing leg hold the weight.

[SDcampowneroper]

mine helps. It is simple physics. Stabilize in 3 dimensions at the most distant points from inertias.

[8ntw8tn]

Well, now y'all have my curiosity aroused about the J T Strongarms. As noted in my signature, I have a Carriage Cameo that has a box frame, not an I-beam. In order to mount the hardware it would seem I would have to not only drill into the frame but also tap the holes also. Correct? Not something I'm going to do here in the park. That would have to be a summer project back at the sticks & bricks.

[Old-Biscuit]

TXiceman wrote:
Tried a tripod and took it back for a refund after one use. The J.T.'s Strongarms will do more good.

Ken

Exact same experience...

[avvidclif1]

Don't waste your money. PITA to setup for negligible benefit. Mine is collecting rust, somewhere around here.

[KBfiredog]

Agree with other posts, best use for the tripod is for a boat anchor. KB
2011 Cameo 37RESLS
2012 Ford F350 Lariet DRW

[8ntw8tn]

I have a set of between-the-tires screw chocks (made them myself from sets of pipe clamps and 4x4's), and they work well. And after speaking with several other guys in the park who have the tripods, most of whom highly recommended them, I've been inclined to try one. I did speak to one guy who said he couldn't tell much difference but that his wife insisted on its use. The JT Strongarms are a good suggestion, just not sure I want to part with that much $$ right now. But I do appreciate the comments and suggestions.

[TXiceman]

Tried a tripod and took it back for a refund after one use. The J.T.'s Strongarms will do more good.

Ken

[JIMNLIN]

The pin stabilizer won't stabilize the front and rear of the trailer.

I use a aluminum bi pod pin stabilizer which eliminate side to side sway at the front of the trailer.
And of course side to side sway at the rear will need to be addressed. For that job I use the BAL telescoping stabilizer.
And I use adjustable chocks that eliminate fore and aft movement. Medical condition requires me to have a rock solid unit with no bounce/sway.

I've used the bi pod pin stabilizer since 1984 on our first 5th wheel trailer.

You don't have anything yet so I would suggest you look into the JT system or some similar.

[B_O__Plenty]

Don't waste your money. I bet if you ask around in your RV park you can get one for free...

B.O.

[mileshuff]

I've never tried a tripod as so many have said they offer minimal benefit. I instead installed JT Strong Arms. Huge improvement! I can still feel when people walk in the trailer but far less than without the JT's.

[laknox]

8ntw8tn wrote:
I've decided to try using a tripod stabilizer while we're spending the winter in the Texas Hill Country. After a reasonable amount of time researching them I've decided on the Ultra-Fab stabilizer and have tentatively narrowed it even further to the aluminum model. According to the specs I've read the aluminum model will support 1200# while the steel model supports up to 1500#. My question, for those in the know, is whether or not that additional 300# is really necessary or desirable, since most of the weight is still being supported by the landing gear. Our 5er has a listed dry weight of 11,200, but I'm estimating it's a good 13k with all of the 'stuff' we bring south with us. I'm OK with buying the steel model if necessary; it's even $20 less expensive but weighs about 20# more. I just don't want to horse that extra weight around if I don't have to, even if it is only twice a year. Opinions?

A lot of people who have actual experience with them will tell you not to waste your money on a tripod and to buy, or build, stabilizer arms that help anchor the landing legs and rear stabilizers. JT Strongarms and BAL are 2 that get mentioned often. Several people have posted DIY stabilizers. Another thing people do is to use between-the-tire screw-tightened chock and jack stands in front and behind the axles to prevent bouncing on the suspension.

Lyle