Sway & Wind

[Frenchy33]

Hi all,
I have a 30' Coleman trailer pulled by F150 Crew Cab 5.5' bed w/ Curt 600 WD & Sway Control System.

If not pulling in wind, my rig pulls like a dream, and I have no problem what so ever. This past weekend I was towing home in 13 MPH wind. I seem to experience a lot of sway in situations like that. It was to the point where I had to slow to 50 on the interstate to feel comfortable towing. As soon as I got off the interstate and out of the wind, I didn't have any issue (so doubt it is a weight balance issue). I also feel a pretty good bow effect from passing semi's.

Does anyone else share this experience, or is it possible I need to fine-tune my WD hitch?

I'm heading from IL to SD this summer, and am dreading the thought of wind over 10, which is most likely to happen.

[Lwiddis]

“doubt it is a weight balance issue”

Yes it is. Your TV is to, too, two light for your TT. 13 mile an hour winds? Come on out to the West. That’s a calm day.

[BenK]

All things are engineered/designed to the limited or max ratings and for the day Mr Murphy crosses your path

Below those limits or max ratings...just about anything "CAN" tow it...like a half ton "CAN" tow a curb Space Shuttle...

TV ratings does matter...especially tow at the spec ratings

[Frenchy33]

Thanks DutchmenSport. I'm seriously considering upgrading my truck next year to a 3/4 or a 1 Ton. Possibly upgrading the trailer to a 5th wheel.

For those who pull a 5er's, do you ever have issues with wind?

[DutchmenSport]

It's just so hard to explain to folk who drive a 1/2 ton truck how far short those trucks fail under extreme conditions. And a 13 mph side wind is not even extreme.

In your situation, you did the right thing. You slowed down and made all attempts to get out of the wind. And yes, I'm so sorry to say this, but size of truck does make a difference. A 30 foot trailer is a bit much for a 1/2 ton truck.

My personal advise and my original coined quote:

“You really need to think in terms of what is the ultimate extreme usage you'll be experiencing with your truck, not what is the lightest usage and hope it's OK when the extreme happens."