Two Essential Upgrades for Your Travel Trailer (WDH & Sway Control)
- Nick
- Mar 16
- 4 min read
As avid campers, we rely on our camper van and two travel trailers for various adventures. Hauling these trailers safely and smoothly is a top priority, which is why we recently invested in two key towing upgrades: the CURT 17510 TruTrack 2P Trailer-Mounted Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control (8-10K) and the CURT 51202 True Course Advanced Bluetooth® Trailer Sway Control System. These products have made a noticeable difference in our towing experience, but like any equipment, they come with pros and cons.
After having two back surgeries in 10 years, and getting tired of listing a heavy system, we found the CURT 17510 TruTrack 2P is designed to help distribute weight more evenly between the trailer and tow vehicle while incorporating built-in sway control. This improves stability and handling, especially on long hauls or in windy conditions. Once set up, 90% of the TruTrack weight distribution system stays mounted to your travel trailer, making hitching and unhitching much easier. The spring bar and horn assembly remain attached to the trailer, while the shank and head assembly stay on your tow vehicle. To hook up, simply lower the trailer onto the hitch head, insert the pin, and engage the brackets.
With Quick-Connect Coupling, disconnecting is just as simple—release the brackets, remove the pins, and raise the trailer jack without full disassembly. This one of a kind system makes hooking up easier and faster.
Pros:
• Quick-Connect Coupling: Attaching the hitch is more straightforward compared to traditional weight distribution hitches.
• Integrated Sway Control: Helps reduce trailer sway, adding a level of safety and confidence while towing.
• Improved Weight Distribution: Reduces stress on the tow vehicle and improves handling.
• Durable Construction: Heavy-duty materials ensure longevity and reliability.
• Adjustable Design: Allows you to fine-tune the setup for your specific trailer.
Cons:
• Not a Complete Sway Elimination Solution: Sway control depends on trailer loading, weather, and driving conditions.
• Installation Can Be Time-Consuming: Initial setup takes effort and proper adjustments.
• Heavier Than Some Other Hitches: While durable, the added weight may be a factor for some users.
Real-World Scenario: We recently took a trip with one of our travel trailers, encountering strong side winds in open areas. The TruTrack hitch noticeably reduced sway and improved steering control, making the drive less stressful. However, I still had to adjust my speed and remain cautious, as no system can eliminate sway entirely.
The CURT 51202 True Course is an advanced electronic sway control system designed to enhance towing stability. It actively detects trailer sway and automatically applies the brakes—without driver input or a brake controller—helping to keep the trailer in line. Using OneControl mobile integration, drivers receive real-time status updates, providing an extra layer of protection against sway caused by wind, road conditions, or sudden maneuvers.
With easy plug-and-play installation, the system mounts directly on the trailer and integrates with multiple vehicle models.
Pros:
• Automatic Sway Correction: Helps reduce sway without driver intervention.
• Bluetooth Monitoring: Allows you to track performance via a smartphone app.
• Works With Various Hitches: Can be used alongside a weight distribution hitch for added control.
• Compact and Easy to Install: Mounts easily on the trailer and doesn’t require major modifications.
• Responsive in Real Time: Detects and corrects sway immediately.
Cons:
• Requires Bluetooth Connection: The system depends on a stable Bluetooth connection, which may occasionally be unreliable.
• Not a Standalone Solution: Works best when combined with proper weight distribution and loading techniques.
• Cost: A bit pricey compared to basic sway control solutions.
Real-World Scenario: On a recent trip, we drove through a construction zone where uneven road surfaces caused unexpected trailer sway. The True Course system detected the sway and automatically applied the brakes to bring everything back under control. It provided extra peace of mind, especially in unpredictable conditions.
Final Thoughts: Are These Upgrades Worth It?
Both the CURT 17510 TruTrack 2P Weight Distribution Hitch and the CURT 51202 True Course Bluetooth® Sway Control have significantly improved our towing experience. While they do not eliminate all sway (as road conditions, weather, and trailer loading still play a role), they certainly make hauling our travel trailers safer and more manageable.
For those considering these products, be sure to assess your specific towing setup and needs. While they’ve worked well for us, every trailer and towing vehicle combination is different. If you’re interested, both products are available for purchase on Amazon: Weight Distribution Hitch System / Electronic Sway Control System
As a more affordable alternative, the CURT 17200 Trailer Anti-Sway Bar Control Kit can be purchased for under $60 - it’s job is to limit the trailer’s lateral movement - I have not used this, but the install looks fairly easy.
Disclaimer: I am not an expert, just an RV enthusiast sharing my experience. Every travel trailer setup is unique, so make sure these products are suitable for your trailer before purchasing. Also, I am not affiliated with CURT and did not receive these items for free.
Safe travels and happy camping!
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