CARAVAN WOBBLE
Caravan wobble, also known as sway or fishtailing, can be a frightening and dangerous experience for anyone towing a trailer or caravan. There are several factors that can contribute to caravan wobble, including wind gusts, uneven road surfaces, and incorrect weight distribution.
Before considering the use of sway bars, it is important to first ensure that your towing combination is correctly set up and that your caravan is loaded to or below its maximum allowable weight limit and the weight is distributed correctly. Here are some steps you can take to help prevent caravan wobble:
Make sure your caravan is loaded correctly:
- Ensure that the weight is evenly distributed throughout the caravan and that the heaviest items are positioned over or slightly forward of the caravan's axles.
- Ensure your tow ball weight is appropriate for the weight of the trailer and the load capacity of the tow vehicle.
- You should also ensure that the weight of the loaded caravan does not exceed the towing capacity of your vehicle.
Tyre construction and pressure:
- Not all tyres are constructed equally, the construction of the tyre is critical in the way the tyre deals with weight carrying and stability. Typically the standard tyre fitted to new vehicles is designed towards fuel economy, minimal road noise levels and most of all comfort. The tyre load rating will give a better idea on how a particular tyre will work for your load levels. Often the higher the load rating the rougher the ride but the better the tyre will deal with a loaded caravan and tow vehicle on your next holiday.
- Maximum loads and tyre pressures go hand in hand. Raising and lowering tyre pressures to suit road and load conditions is critical. Do you know your maximum weight and tyre pressure for your tow vehicle and caravan?
Tow vehicle limitations:
- Use an appropriate towing vehicle - use a towing vehicle that is appropriate for the size and weight of your caravan. It's also important to ensure that the towing vehicle has the necessary towing capacity and is equipped with the correct towing equipment, such as a tow bar, weight distribution hitch, upgraded suspension and the correct tyre construction to suit the extra loads associated with towing.
- Slow down - reduce your speed when driving, particularly when driving in windy conditions or on uneven road surfaces. Some states in Australia now mandate a maximum speed limit of 100kmh when towing trailers over a particular weight and length. Eg. (NSW 4.5 tonne GCM) (WA any trailer)
- Use trailer brakes - use the trailer brakes to help slow down and stabilise the caravan when necessary.
If you have taken these steps and are still experiencing caravan wobble, then sway bars may be a useful solution. Seaton Suspension's sway bar kit is specifically designed to provide additional support and stability to caravans, helping to prevent or minimise caravan wobble. The kit has been rigorously tested and meets all relevant safety standards, and clear instructions for installation and use of the kit are also provided to ensure that it is used correctly and safely.
Overall, it's important to take steps to prevent caravan wobble before considering the use of sway bars. By ensuring that your towing setup is correctly set up and that your caravan is properly loaded, you can help prevent caravan wobble and ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
Here are some models we currently support
-Jayco Crosstrak (JTech 2 Suspension)
-Jayco Journey (JTech 2 Suspension)
-MDC XT14 Models
-MDC XT16 Models
Dont see your model contact us and let us know!
