Does the Axle Need to Be Supported When Replacing U-Bolts on a Trailer Axle

Updated 09/27/2011 | Published 09/26/2011

Question:

Have a PJ Lo Boy, three axle trailer, with 7k axles, with leaf springs. if I were to replace the U bolts on the axles, do I replace one at a time, or do the springs need to be clamped, before removing the u bolt? Or what is the best way to replace? Thanks

asked by: Bill F

Expert Reply:

If your axles are above your leaf springs then you can just remove the old u-bolts and then install the new ones. Check out the video I attached that shows this being done.

If your axles are below your leaf springs I would recommend you use a jack to support the axle so that it stays in the spring seat so you can remove the old u-bolts and reinstall the new 3 inch Round Trailer U-Bolts Qty 2 # SP01-060 onto your axles.

When tightening the u-bolt nuts you will want to use a criss-cross pattern similar to tightening lug nuts on a wheel. The goal will be to tighten down the u-bolts until the spring seats starts to flex slightly, and then to also have the same amount of threads showing on each u-bolt.

expert reply by: Jameson C