Thermocouples are $8. I would just throw one in it. It can't hurt. The only way to check them is to use a voltmeter and apply heat and measure the differnce in voltage from hot to cold. Or like I said, they are $8.
Find the nearest hardware store to your campground before you get to there. One trip after you start hooking things up the first time for the year is almost certain.
I have the bars and chains on my 2000 Terry 24' TT that I tow with a 2010 F150. I generally use them every time, although I don't always use the sway control. My trailer never seems to sway. I also have the integrated trailer brake controller with an...