Troubleshooting Trailer Suspension Bolts Splines that Aren't Seating

Published 07/31/2019

Question:

I Purchased these bolts and shackle straps 115052Galv. Having a very hard time getting the spines to draw into the straps and the hangers on the trailer. All holes are 9/16 and I used a 9/16 drill bit to ensure the holes did not have buildup or burs. Im putting a lot of torque on the nut to try and get the bolt to draw in and sit flush. I was able to get two to draw in without that much torque but others will not budge forward with a lot of torque. Is there a trick to getting these to draw in? Do I need to hit the nuts with an impact?

asked by: Steve L

Expert Reply:

Have you tried tapping the bolt in with a hammer? Hopefully not much force would be needed. Ideally you get the splines seated all the way but then you don't have to really torque the nuts down as the bolt needs to allow the suspension to move. You might open up the holes a bit more to allow the splines to fit through if they are being stubborn.

expert reply by: Jameson C