Vibration while towing

OliverDennis52 · May 9, 2022

Picked up a new 5x10 utility trailer this weekend. Drove it about 100 miles to pick up an ATV. On the way, empty, it towed just fine, no issues. Once I loaded the ATV (about 700lbs) and started to drive home, I experienced some pretty significant vibrations at highway speeds, around 60-65mph. The vibration was variable and would get worse at times and then subside, but significant enough that I could see the front of the truck shake. The trailer was level and I adjusted the load a bit during the ride back to see if it was due to the weight distribution to no avail. Now I've towed other trailers with heavier loads with my truck and they were always smooth as glass, no issues. I'm not thinking it's the truck.

When I got home, I raised the trailer to check the wheels and tires and found that both tires had at least 1/8 inch of run out (not round). The rims where good. When I spun the wheels you could visibly see the vertical wobble. I thought it might be flat spots, but after 200 miles those should have resolved themselves. My question is, would a 1/8 to 1/4 inch run out (both tires) cause this type of vibration? The trailer dealer is checking with the manufacturer on next steps, but looking to see if anyone else has experience here. Thanks

eppieguy · May 9, 2022

I think it would once the weight was put on the trailer, I'd take the trailer out empty again and see if you still experience the same vibration, I think that would prove it out.

redwngr · May 10, 2022

Weight distribution to far to rear of trailer can make it wiggle, sometimes violently. Worse at higher speeds.

dieselfan1 · May 10, 2022

I would replace the Chinese tires with Goodyear Endurance tires.

Z45 · May 10, 2022

Quote

My question is, would a 1/8 to 1/4 inch run out (both tires) cause this type of vibration?

Definitely, the trailer tires are junk as most are on cheap trailers. Neighbor said same thing about cheap trailer he got at Tractor Supply, shakes his truck when he hauls the lawn tractor around.

Edited May 10, 2022 by elcamino

OliverDennis52 · May 10, 2022

47 minutes ago, dieselfan1 said:

I would replace the Chinese tires with Goodyear Endurance tires.

That's likely my next move. It came with the chinese Goodride tires. I went out and checked this morning and found that both tires were overinflated by 10lbs (60lbs on a max PSI of 50). Likely overinflated while it was stored on the dealer's lot and they didn't adjust them before I drove off with it. I'm sure that extra 10lbs didn't help either. Trailer dealer was "checking" with the warranty department and I'm waiting to hear back. Trailer is a new Big Tex 30SA.

Edited May 10, 2022 by OliverDennis52