How do I know if my trailer torsion axle is bad?
If the deflection, or amount of travel of the wheels, on the torsion axle has increased, caused the trailer to bottom out, or is not the same on each side then that would be a good indication that something is wrong. Having the weight off of the tires if the trailer will be sitting in the off season is not a bad idea.
What causes trailer tires to wear unevenly?
That said, rapid or significantly uneven trailer tire wear can be caused by: Trailer misalignment or bent wheels from hitting curbs, potholes or debris. Not towing level, which puts more weight and strain on one axle. Uneven load management instead of spreading weight evenly to all wheels/tires.
How long do torsion axles last on a trailer?
Subject: RE: Rubber Torsion Axle Life Expectancy? the lifespan is 15-20 years…. no matter how many miles towed or how stored (weight off frame, etc.)
How do you check a torsion axle?
The first test is to jack up each side of the trailer and watch to see if the wheel moves down as weight is removed from that side, if on either side the wheel does not drop at least 1½” the axle needs replacing.
How do you check a trailer axle alignment?
You can check axle alignment by measuring from the center of the coupler back diagonally to the center of one of the wheels. Then take the same measurement to the other wheel center. They should be identical or within 1/8 of an inch, give or take 1/16 of an inch.
How much camber should a trailer axle have?
Most trailer axles are designed with a “bend” in the tube that will deflect when the load (weight of the trailer) is applied. This will theoretically bring the trailer wheel camber toward a 0 value that is the best setting for most trailer applications.
Can a torsion axle be repaired?
Torsion axles use internal rubber cords to provide the suspension motion and they really are not practical to repair/rebuild. Certainly any axle that was damaged in an accident should be replaced purely for safety reasons.
Are torsion axles better than spring?
Torsion trailer axles offer a smoother ride and less maintenance. Leaf springs are more durable, less expensive and far easier to replace parts on. Whichever you choose, you’ll see the best results by properly loading your trailer with the aim of getting the most wear out of the system you pick.
Can you adjust a torsion axle?
Adjusting torsion axles can be done, but you loose suspension travel. You can compress the torsion axle by use of a clamp between the frame and the axle. It is slow, and a pain, but it can be done fairly easily and safely – it is just tedious to operate every time.
How do you jack up a torsion axle boat trailer?
If you want to jack up the whole trailer, front and back and both sides, you can use the tongue jack for the front and then use a floor jack to jack up one corner at the back of the trailer, place a jack stand to hold it, and then jack up the other side using a jack stand to hold it as well.