RV FEATURE
SAG IN THE REAR
THE MYTH:
My 4WD was sagging in the rear when I hitched
up, so I fitted heavy-duty rear springs. Now,
it rides level. I therefore don’t need a weight
distribution hitch.
TRUE
COMPLIANCE CONCERNS
THE MYTH:
I’ve read horror stories about non-compliant RVs
being sold to unsuspecting caravanners. I can’t
trust that my new van will be built properly and
have adequate after-sales support.
times
FALSE
With all the info you can
get from the internet
these days, people are learning more and are more
aware of what to ask and look for in their new
purchase. Stick to a known, reputable brand name.
check
...sort of. The amount
of times I am asked
‘do I need a weight distribution hitch?’ tells me
there is a lot of confusion surrounding this topic.
The only way to know for certain is to drop the van
on the towball and see how much the rear of the
vehicle drops in comparison to the front. If it’s still
level, or if there’s only minimal drop, then you do
not need one.
But if you have about a 50mm drop then, yes, I
recommend you use one. However, others advise
using one if the vehicle drops in the rear by as
little as 10-20mm. Ultimately, use some good
judgment and common sense, and if you are still
not confident, seek advice from a van specialist.
In terms of fitting heavy-duty rear springs,
remember that even though they may prevent
the vehicle from drooping in the rear, the ball
weight causing it hasn’t disappeared or in any
way reduced.
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