WIll Using the Andersen RapId Jack to Change a Tire Cause Spring Overload

Updated 08/03/2020 | Published 07/30/2020

Question:

If the Andersen Rapid Jack is used to change wheel on a tandem axle trailer all weight goes on one wheel and leaf spring. This load will exceed the leaf spring capacity. Will this static overload damage spring? In my case I have 3500 lb rated axles with 1750 lb springs and my total load on tandem axles ranges from 5800 to 6300 lb. So half of this weight ends up on one spring if I use the Andersen jack instead of putting a jack under one axle. Obviously driving slowly over a hump might also put full load on only one spring this has happened to me when transitioning from a flat drive to steeper part of same drive

asked by: Stephen L

Expert Reply:

Using the Andersen Rapid Jack # AM3620 to quickly change a tire will not damage the leaf spring on your tandem axle trailer. This has been tested for use with double axle trailers so there's really nothing to worry about because, as you noted, this is a static load and the weight is not going to be completely transferred to a single spring.

I've linked a review video we did that shows how you can safely perform this tire change

expert reply by: Erik B