Do trailers with coil springs and shock absorbers sway at higher speeds?

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.

No restriction on trailer towing speeds here out in Arizona and I believe most adjacent states are similar. Posted limits are generally 75 mph (except Utah and Texas which have some higher ones) and most of these states will give you 10 mph grace.

For those going to Region 9 in Moriarty, I can confirm that speeding fines in New Mexico are very affordable (I got $75 for a trailer-free 92 mph).

Mike

California is 55mph with a trailer.

Trailer towing speed limits by state:

http://drivinglaws.aaa.com/laws/trailer-speed-limits/

I was woefully ignorant of this law and I'd guess that others are too.

Inadvertantly omitted from my previously posted list of possible remedies would be the possibility of adding shocks to Avionic trailers that have torsion bar and leaf spring suspension.