Re: [A/S] sway

[j.dandrea@xxxxxxxxxxx]

Hi.  I have watched the Hensley tape a couple of times as it runs constantly at 
the welding shop I use.  I think it points out worst scenarios.  I don't think 
the tape inspires paranoia, but I have had close calls this year and certainly 
recognize some of the situations as having occurred in my own travels. there's 
an old saying that goes something like "not being paranoid doesn't mean there 
isn't anything to be afraid of".  Most of what I am afraid of is the other guy 
I have no control over and we all know lots of stories about him.  Then there 
is the concept of practice.  I think the advantages of practice are in the area 
of knowing just how wide that rig is and how long it takes to stop it and where
the trailer goes at even 20 miles per hour.  The problem of  depending on  
practice to get you out of a close call is you have to have a close call and 
survive it to legitimately get in your practice.  I listen to all the old 
timers, ie.  folks who have hauled a lot, and they give good advice, but it is 
sometimes hard to remember what to do when the s--- hits the fan, if you know 
what I mean.  I haul with a Reese and stabilizer bars. I don't use the dual 
sway control I bought, probably should, because I have weanie arms and don't 
want to unhook to back up.  (Somebody tell me if I am crazy here).  I can't 
afford the Hensley, but would like to and the concept of overkill doesn't 
bother me if I could afford it.  My motto is better overkill than be killed. 
Mostly I drive at a very reasonable speed (55 mph on the freeway) and very 
defensively.  I stop often to stay rested and the dogs are always bugging me 
for exercise, and I tell myself all the time I am supposed to be having fun;  
not recovering from an accident.

Joan in Seattle