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9:15 pm
October 9, 2011
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Mike J
| | Kingston WA | |
| Member | posts 30 |
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Tow vehicle is a 2009 RAV4 V with tow package. Recently did the axel/springs switch which increased the TT clearance. However, now the trailer tilts down at the tounge, and the RAV also drops considerably. Wonder if the weight distribution has changed, and what this means. Also wondering what might be done to level both the TT and the RAV4.
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2010 KZ Sportsmen Classic 14RB – 2009 RAV4 V6
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7:12 am
October 10, 2011
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pfidahospud
| | Post Falls, Idaho | |
| Member | posts 107 |
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Great towing combination (IMHO)! I'm assuming you have a 14RB? I put considerable thought into doing the spring-over-axle conversion like you, but was concerned the trailer would end up being a little tall for the tow vehicle. So far I haven't had any issues with low clearance, but I do understand the concern. With your situation, a weight distributing hitch would do wonders (if you don't already have one). The WD hitch does adjust up to accommodate a higher trailer frame, but check a couple of things before looking for the one that works for you: use a scale to measure the hitch weight (it will be more than what is stated on the trailer), and specific to your RAV, a taller hitch may make your rear cargo door unusable as it may not clear the hitch ball when opened. Another option would be to use air bag helper springs like these. I don't have them…but I've heard really good things about them from mechanic friends. They do last a long time (forever?), and are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, but you have to change the pressure in them according to the load — i.e. if you're driving without the TT with the air bags inflated it'll ride like a rock. Some pics of my setup with a RAV and 14RB are here if you'd like to check them out. I hope that's helpful…
Stephen
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Tow-er: 2010 RAV4 3.5L 269 hp V6 with Tow Pkg ~ Tow-ee: 2011 Sportsmen Classic 14RB ~ Director: The wife
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7:26 am
October 10, 2011
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DougB
| | Charlotte, NC | |
| Member | posts 31 |
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Have you changed to ball mount to adjust to the new trailer coupler height? Here is a good article on how to determine the correct ball mount.
http://www.etrailer.com/faq-ba…..mount.aspx
I plan on having the axle flip for my TT this winter and I tow with a RAV4 too so I know I'll have to increase the rise. I believe others have said it is about 4-6 increase in clearance.
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9:05 pm
October 10, 2011
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Mike Magee
| | near Tulsa OK | |
| Member | posts 204 |
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Agree with DougB. If you change trailer height, you should change ball height to match. A tilting trailer will put a little more of the weight forward (more of the roofline will sit in front of the axle than before) and increase tongue weight somewhat. It's not huge, but still it makes a difference.
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2008 Toyota Highlander – 2011 Escape E14RB
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9:18 am
October 11, 2011
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DougB
| | Charlotte, NC | |
| Member | posts 31 |
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pfidahospud said:
Another option would be to use air bag helper springs like these. I don't have them…but I've heard really good things about them from mechanic friends. They do last a long time (forever?), and are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, but you have to change the pressure in them according to the load — i.e. if you're driving without the TT with the air bags inflated it'll ride like a rock. Stephen
I have the Firestone air bag helper springs that Stephen mentioned on my RAV4. They definately help with sag especially with my 16BH which has a bit heavier tongue weight than the 14RB. For towing I usually have about 20-25 lbs psi and if I forget to decrease the pressure after towing the ride is not that bad. Installation is simple except for working them through the spring coils to the inside of the spring which was quite a challenge. The bags are very heavy duty and don't compress enough for the small opening…looks easy in the pictures. Perhaps there is a trick I don't know about. Doug
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