Frame Bolt Torque of Timbren Axle Less Suspension and Support Bar Requirements

Updated 04/22/2021 | Published 04/20/2021

Question:

hello, i have the Timbren Silent Ride Suspension for Single Axle Trailers w/ 2inch Square Axles - 3,500 lbs Item # TSR3500S05 and just installed them on a boat trailer. instructions say to add a piece of metal on the inside of the frame if its a tubing frame, which it is, that way it doesnt collapse the frame. i used a piece of 2 x 3/16in flat bar, and can only get the mounting bolts to 90 ft/lbs and thats only half way to spec. its already starting to collapse the frame, piece of flat bar and the suspension. so my question is, is 90ft/lbs enough, if not then would it be better for me to cut access holes into the frame so that i can bolt directly to the side of the frame, OR can i leave the toque where it is and add a couple of welds to add some support. also with this being boat trailer i can not add the support bar that goes between both silent rides since the v hull is in the way, How important is that support bar? Thanks in advance for the info.

asked by: Ben C

Helpful Expert Reply:

I looked at the instructions for Timbren # TSR3500S05 and the bolts for the frame are supposed to be torqued to 90-95 ftlbs. If your frame is starting to buckle I suggest adding some sleeves into the frame to strengthen it. Also if your frame is taller than 2" you might find a piece of steel that will match the height of your frame. This will create a much stronger mounting location.

The support bar that goes across the frame is only required if your frame doesn't have enough strength to overcome the torsion that will be put on the frame from the suspension system. If it is strong enough you will need to fabricate a inboard support extension and gusset it to the steel flat bar that you used for bolting to the frame(See figure 3 of the instructions for representation).

expert reply by: Bud M