JohnG-Detroit
Port Huron, MI
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Joined: 10/04/2003
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Hello Everyone,
After reading as many posts here as I can and watching all of the online videos I could find, I thought that I would ask for confirmation on what I think I have learned.
I have an ultra lightweight Gulfstream Visa (2800#) being towed by a Pontiac Torrent crossover.
I purchased a Reese Strait-Line WD Trunnion system with the HP Dual Cam - probably overkill but I cherish hassle and worry-free traveling.
I have read the discussions on vehicle sag and 'equal squat' vs. getting the front as close to normal as possible.
Here are the measurements from the ground to the top of the fender well (full load = full trailer tongue weight on vehicle without using WD)
No Load Full Load 6 Links 5 Links
Front 32 1/2 32 7/8 32 9/16 32 1/4
Rear 32 1/4 31 1/8 31 1/2 32
So... If my goal is to get the front equal to the no load measurement then 6 links would appear to be the best. However, there is a fair amount of rear sag and does the slight rise in the front mean I am actually removing weight from that axle and it might impact handling?
If I go 5 links then that would essentially give me the older standard, but now unfavored, 'equal squat'.
Or should I base my decision on a road test and my subjective opinion on which setup appears to give the best handling?
Thanks to all in advance!
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JohnG-Detroit
Port Huron, MI
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Sorry for the jumbled numbers in the original post. Let's try this a different way...
Front
32 1/2 - No Load
32 7/8 - Full Load
32 9/16 - 6 Links
32 1/4 - 5 Links
Rear
32 1/4 - No Load
31 1/8 - Full Load
31 1/2 - 6 Links
32 - 5 Links
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BarneyS
S.E. Lower Michigan
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I would go with the 6 links, which you say returns your vehicle front measurements to the stock height. Don't worry about the rear end squat, that is normal, as long as it is within the axle and tire ratings. Take it for a tow and see how it does. If not acceptable, then try 5 links under tension and compare.
Barney
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Bob Landry
Austin, texas
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The goal is not to get equal front and rear squat. The goal is to return the fron end to the unhitched height with the correct weight distribution adjustment. Trunnion bars should point slightly downward, Use the correct number of links to get that, then tilt the head to get to correct weight transfer. I have to disagree with Barney's suggestion to try a different number of links if it doesn't "feel right". Once the numbers are right, they're right. Don't change your setup unless the weight or loading of the trailer changes. If the rear squat is unacceptable to you, you can raise it with bags or helper springs, but that will affect the adjustment and you'll have to redo it.
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BarneyS
S.E. Lower Michigan
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Bob,
There was only a 1/4 inch or so difference in measurement between 5 and 6 links. That could even be a margin for error in suspension stiction when measuring and they would not really know if "the numbers are right". That is the reason I suggested going for a drive, seeing how it towed, and then try changing links. The best thing would be to go for a drive to a scale and get the actual measurements.
Barney
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fla-gypsy
North Florida
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On my TT I got it as close as I could and then test drove it to dial it in. I agree with Barney S on this one.
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Bob Landry
Austin, texas
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Barney's approach is Ok as long as the front end gets measured to see where you are. Even if the TV "drove better", I would be hesitant to leave too much weight transfered up front because of accelerated component wear. Anytime you do anything to change the amount of weight transfered, it needs to be checked.
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MackinawMan
NW Ohio
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EDIT: I have no idea how this post ended up in this thread...apologies.
* This post was
edited 05/06/12 07:47am by MackinawMan *
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Ron Gratz
full time RVer
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BarneyS wrote:---The best thing would be to go for a drive to a scale and get the actual measurements. This I agree with.
The purpose of the "drive" should be to get the measurements.
Just going for a drive to see how the combo feels can be misleading. Too much load on the front axle can make the steering seem more responsive. Some might think that's a good thing, but it could be an indication of oversteer. Oversteer, when towing, is not a good thing.
IMO, if you really want to know how well the WDH is adjusted, you need to measure the axle loads.
Ron
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JohnG-Detroit
Port Huron, MI
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Thanks to all for the advice!
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