Are Two Wrenches Needed When Tightening Shackle Bolts on Trailer Suspension.

Published 06/01/2015

Question:

When tightening the shackle bolts on my double eye boat trailer leaf spring I did not have the other side of the bolt held with a socket and it began to spin. Is it possible that I stripped the knurls? Should I be concerned with the function of the leaf spring and shackle bolts?

asked by: Jeff B

Expert Reply:

Shackle bolts have a nut that needs to get held with a wrench or socket while tightening them down. If you didn't use a wrench or socket when you initially installed the shackle bolts you could go back now with one so that you can tighten them properly.

If you are concerned about the condition of the knurls or the threads of the bolt you could remove the bolt and inspect it. Most likely they would be fine though.

expert reply by: Jameson C