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Old 08-11-2010, 03:48 PM   #1
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pick up vs explorer

Hi, we have a 13' scamp, and its very easy to tow. we have a 2005 ford explorer and a 4wd long box ford 150. My question, we both feel that the truck pulls the scamp easier, and you don't feel this "clunking" as much as with the explorer. Adrian was thinking its because the distance from the wheels to the hitch is longer with the truck than the explorer. Are we nuts?<_< Does anyone have such issues? The ball is level on both vehicles. We have been thinking of selling the explorer (we picked this up because when we camp with friends and do days trips if comfy with four adults, the truck is two folks only) and getting a sport-trac, gives use the bed and the four doors for people, Any advice?
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Old 08-11-2010, 06:19 PM   #2
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Originally Posted by sugermc View Post
Hi, we have a 13' scamp, and its very easy to tow. we have a 2005 ford explorer and a 4wd long box ford 150. My question, we both feel that the truck pulls the scamp easier, and you don't feel this "clunking" as much as with the explorer. Adrian was thinking its because the distance from the wheels to the hitch is longer with the truck than the explorer. Are we nuts?<_< Does anyone have such issues? The ball is level on both vehicles. We have been thinking of selling the explorer (we picked this up because when we camp with friends and do days trips if comfy with four adults, the truck is two folks only) and getting a sport-trac, gives use the bed and the four doors for people, Any advice?

Usually "clunking" is the result of a loose fit between the hitch and the draw bar. There are many anti-rattle devices that will stop this.
Roadmaster Quiet Hitch for 2" Trailer Hitches Roadmaster Hitch Accessories RM-061
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Old 08-11-2010, 07:25 PM   #3
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If this appears to maybe be the problem get a wooden wedge from the hardware store and drive it in on the top of the draw bar with a hammer to see if that fix's your clunk. ( cheep check )

Bill K

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Usually "clunking" is the result of a loose fit between the hitch and the draw bar. There are many anti-rattle devices that will stop this.
Roadmaster Quiet Hitch for 2" Trailer Hitches Roadmaster Hitch Accessories RM-061
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Old 08-11-2010, 09:45 PM   #4
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Supermc:

I wonder if the "clunk" you describe might be a loose hitch ball -- are you sure that the hitch ball is properly tightened on the hitch mount?

We had a clunking sound a while ago which turned out be be due to a loose hitch ball -- not the fit between the hitch mount and the receiver. The problem disappeared once the ball was tightened up.

Brian
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Old 08-16-2010, 02:36 PM   #5
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Supermc:

I wonder if the "clunk" you describe might be a loose hitch ball -- are you sure that the hitch ball is properly tightened on the hitch mount?

We had a clunking sound a while ago which turned out be be due to a loose hitch ball -- not the fit between the hitch mount and the receiver. The problem disappeared once the ball was tightened up.

Brian
Thanks for all the tips & nope, ball is tight to the hitch mount
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Old 08-16-2010, 03:39 PM   #6
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Thanks for all the tips & nope, ball is tight to the hitch mount
If the ball is the wrong size you can get a clunking sound. A 1 7/8" ball in a 2" inch hitch will do just that. Something to check...

We tow with a Jeep Liberty and a Dodge Dakota Pickup. We like the truck better because:

Longer wheel base equals smoother ride.

Can carry more "Stuff"

Jeep is noisier than truck - Bed, back window and camper shell take out a lot of noises.
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Old 08-16-2010, 04:41 PM   #7
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Thanks for all the tips & nope, ball is tight to the hitch mount
Sugermc:

I thought our hitch ball was tight too, but with a lock washer it is hard to tell. It needs to be torqued up adequately.

TIGHTEN NUT WITH TORQUE WRENCH AS FOLLOWS:
3/4" DIA. THREAD: 150 LB.-FT.
1" DIA. THREAD: 250 LB.-FT.

Trailer Coupler Technical Information

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