How much drop do I need?

This is all new to me and couldn't find an answer using search. I have a '15 dbsb TRDOR with no lift but I do have ride rite air bags. I want to tow a 5x9 open trailer to haul a riding mower, how much drop do I need on the draw bar? 2"? 3"?

 

You have get a measurement from the ground to the bottom of the coupling on the trailer when the trailer is level. Then another measurement from the bottom of the hitch reciever to the ground. The difference will give you a general idea. Just make sure the trailer has a "bro lean" aka a little nose high rather then higher in the rear.

I have 265/70r17 with airbags as well with stock shocks and leafs with about 11 PSI in the bags and I use a 3' drop on mine. I use it with a full aluminum 5x9 trailer with 14 inch tires...there are many variables that affect drop heights.

 

Thanks Oey, that's good info. I'll look into this.

 

No problem brother!

 

Not to confuse the OP but I always make sure my trailer is level or a tiny bit nose down. In truth, a few degrees off level either way is ok, but here's how you can test in a simple way. Go get a wheel barrow, load it up, drag it (like a trailer). Hold arms higher or lower, see what controls it best. Same physics apply here.

My uncle once wrecked a vehicle while towing (I was in the passenger side) because he loaded it very heavily behind the rear axle. That's a VERY bad idea.

So, for a 5x9 trailer, here's some tips:

1. Make sure the mower is over, or slightly in front of the axle.
2. Level as you can get the trailer on level ground, give or take a bit up or down.
3. A 5x9 likely doesn't have brakes, so know your stopping time and distance will increase.
4. If it starts to whip on you, don't panic and DON"T tap the brakes hard, that will cause it to break loose. I typically will either let off the gas and see if it improves, or sometimes even add a little gas to straighten it up. You'll find the trail will pull well at a certain speed, and each trailer might pull better at certain speeds, so if you find 55 mph works for one and 65 works for another, then drive in a manner that makes the trailer stable.
5. Most ST rated trailer tires are max speed 65 MPH. That means it's possible for the bands to separate above that speed, especially if the trailer is overloaded and it's really hot outside.

 

Thanks alot Fajitas for the info. I'll keep this in mind.