Is It Normal For Torsion Axle To Get Negative Camber When Trailer Is Rotated 180 Degrees?

Updated 06/30/2025 | Published 06/23/2025

Question:

I have a question on my boat trailer with torsion spring suspension. I noticed when I spin the boat 180 degrees in the garage both wheels develop a neg. camber. After I roll it back and forth a few times the wheels straighten to their normal position. My question is, am I causing damage to the torsion suspension?

asked by: Daniel D

Expert Reply:

Hey Daniel, good question. This is normal for a torsion axle. You spinning the trailer 180 degrees is not going to damage the suspension. That is just how torsion axles work. As the wheels move the rubber inside the axle flexes, and that is what you are seeing with the tire camber. Just normal flex of the suspension. It would be best to straighten the tires when storing the trailer.

The suspension flexing like that is normal. As torsion axles wear over time, the spindle will actually start to gradually angle slightly towards the ground. That is what you want to look for as a wear or damage indicator. As long as your tires are still straightening out to their normal position, and you don't see any uneven tire wear, you will be good to go. Or good to tow haha

expert reply by: Jesse M