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Attaching Shackle Bolts and Spring Hangers to Utility Trailer  

Question:

Do the 9/16 nuts with the marks thread on with the marked side entering the bolt first and also there are teeth on the bolts just under the head. Are these bolts driven on to engage the teeth or does tightening the nut pull them in. One other question, when bolting the springs to the trailer frame, do the nuts go on the inside?

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

It makes no difference which direction the shackle nut or bolt head is facing. The bolt is not driven in, when the shackle bolts are tightened, the knurled portion of the bolt will be drawn into place. Make sure you use a lock nut, and snug it down then back it off about 1/4 turn so the shackles will not bind. If you use a wet shackle bolt with a grease zerk, you will want the zerk facing the outboard side of the trailer for easy access.

The movement of the suspension will make it almost impossible to keep the spring hangers tight to the frame if bolted, so we strongly recommend that spring hangers be welded into place. If you wish to also bolt them by running a bolt up through the frame and securing it from the top of the frame with a nut, you may do so but it is not necessary.

I have linked you to some trailer suspensions FAQ articles you might find helpful.

expert reply by:
1
Mike L

Bary L.

3/14/2013

Mike Thank you for your advice. Very helpful, Barry

Patrick B.

4/10/2013

We are here to help. Let us know if you have any other questions.

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