On Friday, June 6, 2014 6:44:32 PM UTC-4, son_of_flubber wrote:
My Avionic trailer has leaf springs and no shocks and the rhythmic ass end sway that develops at higher speeds encourages me to keep the top speed at 60-65 mph. That speed is just fine with me except when interstate traffic if flying by at 80 mph. In that case I feel that I'm something of a hazard, especially if I'm trying to merge or change lanes.



I'm thinking that shocks might dampen out the rhythmic sway that seems to be self-reinforcing. Tow vehicle is 2004 Volvo XC70. Single seat glass glider.

2nd try. The most important factor affecting trailer stability is the distance of the tow ball to the rear axle with zero being the theoretical optimum. Wil Schumann modified this 1966 Olds Tornado just that way.

So if there is a choice of vehicles go with the least "overhang." A VW Touareg is good, an extended van or pickup not so good. And the ratio of tow vehicle to trailer weight is important too. Heavier vehicle is better, as in RV's (which aren't affected by the relatively light trailer.