Measuring Enclosed Trailer Ramp Door Weight For Torsion Spring Lift Assist

Updated 06/25/2021 | Published 06/23/2021

Question:

I have an enclosed trailer with a ramp door on the side. The opening is 45”. I have a drum max load of 320 lbs. The pipe diameter is 1” and is 46” long. How do I weigh the door to figure out the spring needed?

asked by: Walt G

Helpful Expert Reply:

To determine the correct weight springs you will need a scale to determine how much weight is on the door when it lays out on the ground. You will place the scale on the ground in the center of the landing path of the door edge. This will tell you how much of the door weight is on the ground when fully open. Be sure not to go with a spring that is rated for more weight than your door or you might run into issues of the door trying to close after you lower it.

You do not want to use the total weight of the door as a lot of the weight will be supported by the hinges on the trailer as well.

The Conventional Ramp Door Spring for 5' Wide Enclosed Trailer # 362SA5 is capable of working with doors that are 32-56" wide and will assist with 85lbs of lifting force.

expert reply by: Bud M