Should the Tie-Plate Bend When Tightening Axle U-Bolts

Updated 10/09/2019 | Published 10/08/2019

Question:

APUBR-8 U-bolt kit....Torquing the nuts When properly torqued with a calibrated torque wrench snap-on torque wrench set to 65 foot pounds the u-bolt mounting plate appears to be slightly distorted? Protruding threads from the nuts on all the u-bolts are the same length, indicating equal torque load on the u-bolt and plate. Is this normal?

asked by: Chester

Helpful Expert Reply:

The recommended torque for a 1/2" diameter u-bolt like the U-Bolt Kit for Mounting 5,200-lb to 7,000-lb, Round Trailer Axles part # APUBR-8 is between 45 and 70 ft lbs.

If you are having issues with the tie-plates distorting at 65 ft lbs then I recommend going with a torque setting on the lower end of the above scale. If the tie-plate becomes distorted too much this can weaken the metal but only slight distortion should not be too much of an issue.

expert reply by: Conner L