Help With Verifying Torsion Axle Angle Being Different From One Side Of Trailer To Other

Updated 06/27/2024 | Published 06/21/2024

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Surge Brake Actuator - Disc - Elec Lockout - 2" Ball - Zinc - 7.5K - 3" x 5"

(269)

$357.62

Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension w Idler Hubs - Standard Duty - No Drop - 5 on 4-1/2 - 3,500 lbs

(112)

$1203.75

Question:

Hello, I have a pair of UFP 3.5k torsion axles on my boat trailer that should be at 32 degrees. The trailer is lifted and wheels and rotors removed. One of the axles has spindles at 32 degrees but the the other axle has the spindles at 38 degrees. Is that a problem and need replacing or is that just normal average use?

asked by: Angel L

Expert Reply:

You could be experiencing one of 2 separate issues or a combination of both. If the side at 38 degrees is the passenger side I have seen this a lot as that side of the trailer typically experiences the worst ride quality from damage to the edge of the road. It could either be the rubber torsion inserts inside the axle are worn and allows it to sit lower. You can verify this is the issue if the end of the spindle can easily be raised higher. You could also have a bent axle where the spindle arm actually bent on the axle shaft going into the torsion tube. If you cannot easily raise and lower the spindle this is a clear sign it is bent. But do understand it could be both of these as well. You would want to have it inspected by a trailer shop who is experienced with torsion axles.

If you need to replace the axle you might look at our Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension # A35RS545 as it could be used to replace your axle and is much easier to replace worn out parts.

expert reply by: Bud M

Angel

6/27/2024

Thank you for the reply Bud. I now have a little more information than when I asked this question initially. After speaking to Magic Tilt Trailer. They are supposed to be 35 degrees. It is a dually boat trailer. The rear axle shows 38 degrees on both sides and forward axle shows 32 degrees on both sides. I spoke to Dexter and they said they prefer both axles to be about 3 degrees max from each other and Magic Tilt said it is not yet considered bad. To check thread wear and go from there. What are your thoughts?

Bud M.

6/27/2024

@Angel You're welcome, Angel. I would listen to Dexter as they are the experts when it comes to their axles. If possible I would check your axle tags to verify both axles were rated for the same height. It seems very odd one axle would sit lower while the other would then sit higher.