Should Trailer Suspension Bolts be Torqued Down

Updated 04/20/2021 | Published 04/16/2021

Question:

Installed new leaf springs on boat trailer and replaced shackles with stainless steel same dimensions as originals. How tight torque should the upper shackle bolt be see red circle in photo? Should the shackle be free to pivot on the hanger?

asked by: Steve S

Helpful Expert Reply:

Since suspension components use lock nuts on the ends of the shackle bolts and the bolts need to be able to allow movement you actually don't want to torque down the bolts at all. You want to snug them up so that there's no lateral play but still allows easy movement of the bolts/shackles so that you don't inhibit the suspension from being able to do what it needs to do.

expert reply by: Jameson C