Trading up - towing question - Swift SLX 185RB

[jbacke20119]

I have had a Swift SLX 145RB for the last two years and am trading up to a new Swift SLX 185 RB. I have just towed the small trailer behind my 2009 GMC Sierra (2-wheel drive extended cab) without sway control of any type (just a regular factory-installed hitch) and had no problems. With the addition of four feet to the new camper, will I need a sway control of some type? I know the trailer is still very light and the truck is a tank, but the addition of the extra length makes me wonder.

What do you think?

[mike12110]

I also have a SLX 185 RB and tow with a F150. I use no sway control so far and don't feel the need. I've towed for less than 200 miles so factor that in. Let us know how you make out. I love mine.

[DocBrown]

I used to tow a Jayco Kiwi 17a. I was told I didn't need sway control because it was so small but I used one anyway. I had a strange incident once in pouring rain where I hit a slick spot on the freeway. The back end of my TV slid sideways and the trailer went bananas. I thought I was going to dump the whole thing. That's the only time in over 22 years of towing that I had a scare like that. I wonder what that would have been like without the sway control? Its those completely unanticipated things where these safety features prove their value.

A friction sway control kit is $50 - $130 on Etrailer.com. Cheap considering it can help avert a disaster.

[Rustic Eagle]

IMO a sway control device should be part of every vehicle and trailer connection. A properly set-up vehicle/trailer combination shouldn't create sway under normal "loaded" conditions....., but not all towing conditions will be ideal (poor roads, winds, sudden maneuvers, etc.).

Bob

[jbacke20119]

Thanks for the great input! After visiting with my brother-in-law who has a similar Jayco trailer and truck setup, I believe I am going to join him in getting a friction sway control kit. He told me that it really made him feel better when he saw a tractor trailer approaching quickly from the rear. I think the peace of mind is worth the small extra cost!