How Does a Torsion Axle Work

Helpful Expert Reply: It is certainly possible for any axle to wear out enough over time to need replacing. Since the suspension is built into a torsion axle if the suspension part was to wear out pretty much the only solution would be to replace the axle.

Are torsion axles better than leaf springs?

Torsion trailer axles offer a smoother ride and less maintenance. Leaf springs are more durable, less expensive and far easier to replace parts on. Selecting the proper axle is as simple as determining your application, and figuring out the loads you need to carry.

How do torsion bar axles work?

Torsion axles work by using rubber cords or cartridges inside the axle tube to handle suspension travel and shock absorption. Torsion axles do not use leaf springs, but instead the compression of the rubber to supply the suspension support needed. Each wheel works independently from one another.

Can you grease a torsion axle?

A red or blue marine trailer axle grease would be best to use. Never mix these two colors. See if the store can press the new seals back into place for you. Pack the bearings and replace the rear ones in the hub making sure the races are greased as well.

How long will a torsion axle last?

Subject: RE: Rubber Torsion Axle Life Expectancy? the lifespan is 15-20 years. no matter how many miles towed or how stored (weight off frame, etc.)

Are torsion axles good for off road?

Torsion axles work well on road, I have them on my horse trailer, but off road they just don’t perform well. Failure of a torsion axle is not repairable in the field the closest you can come to it is welding a gusset in place to solidify the broke arm.

What is the advantage of a torsion axle?

Torsion axles are mounted directly to the frame which means fewer moving parts compared to spring suspensions, resulting in a smoother shock action. This stiffens the frame, reducing flex. This system is also less likely to corrode because the axle tube is galvanized inside and out.

Do torsion axles need shock absorbers?

Torsion axles do not suffer from the same harmonics of spring-rate as other axles do, so they rarely need shock absorbers.

How is torsion axle rating determined?

The best way to confirm the weight capacity of your Dexter Torsion Axles is to find the lot number on the axle tag which is located on the center of the axle on the rear side. This tag should say Dexter Axle and then a 9 digit number.

Can you replace the rubber in a torsion axle?

Expert Reply: Torsion axles use internal rubber cords to provide the suspension motion and they really are not practical to repair/rebuild. Certainly any axle that was damaged in an accident should be replaced purely for safety reasons.

Can you flip a torsion axle?

Like HTB and PH said, you don’t “flip” torsion axles, you mount “blocks” between axle rails and the trailer frame rails, pretty simple and strailght forward procedure.

What is torsion axle suspension?

Torsion axles have an attached construction with a rubberized suspension system. Four rubber cords inside the axle handle suspension travel and shock absorption. Since the torsion axle does not have any springs it is mounted directly to the frame, this increases the rigidity of the trailer and reduces flex.

How do you jack up a torsion axle boat trailer?

If you want to jack up the whole trailer, front and back and both sides, you can use the tongue jack for the front and then use a floor jack to jack up one corner at the back of the trailer, place a jack stand to hold it, and then jack up the other side using a jack stand to hold it as well.

How often do you grease Dexter axles?

How often should I grease the bearings? Along with bearing adjustment, proper lubrication is essential to the current function and reliability of your trailer axle. Bearings should be lubricated every 12 months or 12,000 miles.

What did the expression axle grease stand for?

a thick heavy grease used to lubricate axles. type of: grease, lubricating oil. a thick fatty oil (especially one used to lubricate machinery)