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Controlling Sway or Fishtailing
Sway or fishtailing is the sideways action of a trailer caused by external forces.
It is common for travel trailers to sway in response to strong winds, crosswinds,
when passed by or passing a semi-tractor and trailer, or driving downhill.
WARNING:
Excessive sway or fishtailing of your travel trailer
can lead to the rollover of the trailer and tow vehicle. Serious injury or
death can occur. It is important that you read and understand the informa-
tion in this section.
Sway or fishtailing of your recreation vehicle can be controlled and is primarily
impacted by four factors:
•
Equipment
•
Tongue weight
•
Driving
•
Corrective measures
Equipment – When hitched together, the trailer and the tow vehicle must be
level. The tires of both the trailer and tow vehicle should be in good condition
and inflated to the pressure recommended as noted on the exterior of the trailer
and in the owner's manuals of the trailer and tow vehicle.
Your trailer brakes should work in synchronization with your tow vehicle brakes.
Never use your tow vehicle or trailer brakes alone to stop the combined load.
Your brake controller must be set up according to the manufacturer's speci-
fications to ensure proper synchronization between the tow vehicle and the
trailer. Additionally, you may have to make small adjustments occasionally to
accommodate changing loads and driving conditions.
Also, we recommend a friction sway damper or hitch with built-in sway control
be provided for your unit. Please consult your dealer regarding this equip-
ment.
Tongue weight – The tongue weight should be between 10% to 15% of the
total travel trailer weight. See page B-5 of this manual regarding the proper
weight distribution of your recreation vehicle.
Driving – This is the most important component. The tendency for the vehicle
to sway increases with speed therefore, obey all speed limits and reduce speed
during inclement weather or windy conditions.
Corrective measures – If sway occurs the following techniques should be
used:
1. Slow down immediately, remove your foot from the accelerator. Avoid using
B - 11
TOWING
B
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