Where Do I Start?

[Spaggs]

I just installed our new ProPride V2 Stabilzer Jacks on our new 2022 28' Flying Cloud. Prepping for our maiden voyage, ever!

Questions:

Before I set off to the CAT scales, where/how high should I raise the V2s? As suggested by numerous members of this forum, I switched out my 1400 lbs. bars for the 1000 pounders (if that makes a difference).

What is a best link that explains in 3rd grade English how to properly set the ProPride up using the CATs?

Much appreciated.

Spaggs

[Hans627]

I'm still using the 1400# bars so my setting will mostly likely not apply. I have a HD TV so I don't need to restore as much weight to the front axle. My setting is about 4" from the bottom of the towers to the top of the linkage.

I like the V2 jacks so much better.

[Spaggs]

I should have provided more details about our tow rig. It’s a 2000 Ford Excursion, 2 WD, 6.8 liter gasser with F-350 springs, thicker front sway bar, rear sway bar, new polyurethane bushings everywhere (including body mounts), Air Lift bags, and a 20,000 lb. TorkLift hitch. So it is really stiff!
A few months back, multiple members of the forum advised that the 1400 pounder bars with our rig were too stiff and that they should be swapped out for the 1000# units stating that this would alleviate stress on the front of our AS. So, I did.
We have the new V2 stabilizer jacks positioned all the way back touching the 27 1/2” mark.
If anyone has a comparable setup, with a one ton TV, ProPride - 1000# bars and a 28 footer, please chime in.
Thanks.

[SailorSam205]

I think the best starting point for setting WD for ANY hitch. Follow the instructions in your vehicles owners manual. If your Excursion doesn't have instructions, download a F150 manual. The primary reason for adjusting the bars is to get appropriate load on your TV front axle. This is truer for Hensley design hitches where the amount of WD has no impact on sway control.

FWIW, I suspect that the amount of adjustment on the jacks is different for each TV/trailer combination. What works for one may not be correct for another. The modifications you have made to your vehicle exasperate this.

[Spaggs]

Originally Posted by SailorSam205

The modifications you have made to your vehicle exasperate this.

When you say “exasperate,” you are absolutely right.
I just looked up a comparable 2000 Ford F-350 and found my Ex to weigh app. 1,500 lbs heavier. So, I guess I just need to wing it.

[GrandpaMac]

I see all kinds of recommendations in these forums to do WD hitch setups by weighing everything, and I do understand the concepts. What I DONT get is where you are taking your. Rigs to weigh them?

I have made local inquiries, and have not made much progress. I am in Crystal River, FL

[Hans627]

Originally Posted by GrandpaMac

I see all kinds of recommendations in these forums to do WD hitch setups by weighing everything, and I do understand the concepts. What I DONT get is where you are taking your. Rigs to weigh them?

I have made local inquiries, and have not made much progress. I am in Crystal River, FL

I-75, Exit 341, Ocala, FL. This is the closest CAT Scales.

[BayouBiker]

Your best bet is using the scales, given the air lifts. Weigh the truck loaded with passengers, weigh the trailer and tongue weight and verify it is between 13 and 15%. Hitch it up, no tension on the bars then adjust the bars so that 100% of the front axle is returned (front axle weighs the same as truck alone). Test this setup on the road, noting in particular porpoising and response over large bumps. If it's tight, probably a bit stiff and hard on the trailer, slack up WD till it is more forgiving but the steering is still relatively responsive. This abbreviated guidance applies for configurations like this that are well below vehicle capacity.

Be sure the trailer is as level as you can get it with the shank adjustments.