What Are the Advantages of Spring Trailer Axles and Torsion Trailer Axles?
time2022/04/19
- While both types of axles perform the same basic job, the way they suspend and buffer trailer loads are completely different.
Trailer axles are generally divided into two different types: spring axles and torsion axles. While both types of axles perform the same basic job, the way they suspend and buffer trailer loads are completely different.
Spring trailer axle
This type of trailer axle is instantly recognizable to almost anyone who has been in the vicinity of a motor vehicle for some time. As the name suggests, the spring axle is constructed from a stock of stacked leaf springs proportional to the load.
However, instead of putting the springs on the axles (like on a pickup truck), trailers usually hang the axles on the springs. This lowers the ride height of the trailer. Loading stability is higher on lower trailers, and they are also easier to load and unload.
When it comes to trailer suspension, sprung axles are by far the most popular choice. They are inexpensive and relatively easy to maintain. In fact, spring axles are usually shipped pre-attached with bent spring plates and ready to install. This helps further reduce overall costs.
These parts are also ideal for multi-axle trailers, as each tire has its own set of springs. If you have to store your trailer on uneven ground, this independent wheel suspension means the trailer will be better supported in the long run.
Advantages of spring shafts include:
Extensive maintenance is possible. Unlike torsion axles, parts can be easily replaced.
Spring axles provide the most dependable tire wear, especially on multi-axle trailers.
They are inexpensive and fairly easy to install.
The spring axle does not require re-welding to replace the entire axle.
Spring axles excel in the following applications:
Utility trailer
Dump trailer
Basically any type of commercial trailer, with some special exceptions
Torsion trailer axle
The torsion trailer axle takes a completely different approach, instead of relying on the traditional tensioning and spring flat sheet steel of a spring axle.
The torsion trailer axle does not use metal springs of any kind; instead, a series of long rubber cords are housed in a square tube with an inner core piece to which the torsion arm is attached. The installation method is to fix the outer square steel tube of the torsion axle to the frame. The inner square pieces are fastened to the corresponding wheels by torsion bars.
The inner rod compresses the rubber cord along the length of its bearing surface as the wheel moves up and down over bumps or uneven ground. The contact points are just the corners and edges of the center support. Incredibly easy!
Advantages of torsion axles include:
Maintenance-free, lubricate your wheel bearings!
No metal-to-metal contact points
Independent wheel suspension
Quieter when traveling
The ride height can be easily changed with the adjustable torsion bar.
The crossbar structure is welded directly to the frame, increasing stiffness
Excellent corrosion resistance as the torsion axle is usually galvanized inside and out
The warranty period is usually longer than the leaf spring axle
Unfortunately, the additional design of the torsion axle means that any major overhaul will require the axle to be cut off. They really weren't designed for a complete overhaul. However, their simplified construction usually means that maintenance is rarely required.
Torsion shafts excel in the following applications:
Boat trailer axle
Saltwater spray environment
Windy environment
Unusually bumpy or rough roads
Conditions that require a lower ride height
High vibration applications (such as wood chippers)
Which trailer axle is best?
You might ask "Which is better, a torsion shaft or a spring axle?" This is a complicated question. Twisting the trailer axle provides a smoother ride and less maintenance. Leaf springs are more durable, cheaper, and easier to replace parts.
Choosing the right axle is as simple as identifying your application and determining the load you need to carry. Whichever way you choose, you'll see the best results by loading your trailer properly, with the aim of getting the most out of your system of choice.
Two different trailer axles are introduced above. If you have any questions or want to buy trailer axles, please contact us.
HAWATY is a professional custom trailer axles and parts manufacturer. Our factory produces a large number of trailer axles, torsion axles, trailer fenders, trailer jacks, and boat trailer parts. Offering a wide range of trailer parts, Haway has one of the most complete lines of trailer parts.