Yes these relatively inexpensive tongue scales are worth the money. Mine was like $120 delivered to my door. I highly recommend getting one.
Actually when a new TT is sold most dealers “give” you a TT starter kit. Most include, a fresh water hose, a cheap sewer hose, a packet of black tank chemicals maybe a 30 amp to 15 amp adapter and a few other trinkets. Value: $20 to 50 bucks and does not do much for safe camping.
IF a TT starter kit included these 5 items:
1. A Sherline Tongue scale. $120
2. A torque wrench, short extension and 13/16” socket for lug nuts. Cost $40 to $100
3. An accurate tire pressure gage. Cost $10
4. One full hour and a ˝ of service tech’s time to: Cost: $100
A. Explain how proper TT weight and balance can create a stable tow rig. How to load your TT with gear to get proper tongue weight. The cause and effect of low tongue weight.
B. Demonstrate and explain in depth how a WD hitch works. Why it is so important to use one. Hands on training on how to properly adjust a WD hitch to make your TT and TV a safe towing rig.
C. Anti sway controls. What they do, how to adjust them and why we need them. Understanding sway and what to do if you encounter it.
D. Demonstrate and explain how to use tools listed under 1, 2 and 3 above.
5. Written instructions with pictures of the explanation of items 1 - 4 for you to take home and re-read when all the excitement of a new camper settles. Coping costs $2.
The total cost in the price of a new high quality TT: not much. The value: Priceless.
If they give you the deluxe kit, add:
A brake adjusting tool with instructions how to use it and when. OR a coupon for your first 200 miles towing brake adjustment, free.
I apologize if this sounds down beat on the selling practice of many dealers, however how to safely tow a TT is not discussed in very much length in a TT deal. How to use the kitchen appliances some time receives more attention. The only explanation on anything I received from my dealer on any of the 5 times above, was a 2 minute talk how to hook up and if the truck squatted some, take up a link. That was it.
After you have seen or helped some one back figure out what rolled their TV and TT with their famliy inside, it sends a message. Check your own rig to make sure it is setup right and if you do not know how, work to educate yourself. Bad things unfortunately happen to good people.
Anyone not understanding any of the 5 items listed above, fell free to ask here on Sunline Club with no fear of being ridiculed. We will do what ever we can to help you understand your towing setup and if one part comes up weak, well you now know about it and can help yourself.
Safe travels,
PS. BB, I hope this did not steal the good thunder of your helpful information.
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Current Sunlines: 2004 T310SR, 2004 T1950, 2004 T2475, 2007 T2499, 2004 T317SR
Prior Sunlines: 2004 T2499 - Fern Blue
2005 Ford F350 Lariat, 6.8L V10 W/ 4.10 rear axle, CC, Short Bed, SRW. Reese HP trunnion bar hitch W/ HP DC
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