Trailer Torsion Axle Vs Leaf Spring
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- Issue Time
- Jun 5,2021
Summary
This article will specifically introduce the characteristics and differences of the trailer torsion axle and leaf spring.
The characteristics of the trailer torsion axle and the leaf spring are different, and there will be great differences in the application. If you want to choose the most suitable accessories for your trailer, you need to figure out the difference between the two. The following is a specific introduction to the trailer torsion axle and leaf spring.
Torsion Trailer Axles
Rather than relying on the traditional tensioned and sprung flat steel plates of the leaf spring axle, torsion trailer axles take a different approach entirely.
No metal springs of any type are used; rather, a series of long rubber cords are situated inside a square tube with an inner core piece that the torsion arms are secured to.
When the wheel moves up and down on the bumpy or uneven ground, the inner bar compresses the rubber cords along the length of their bearing surface. The contact points are simply the corners and edges of the center support.
Benefits of the torsion axle
(1)Maintenance-free design.
(2)No metal-on-metal contact points.
(3)Independent wheel suspension.
(4)Quieter during travel.
(5)Ride height can be easily changed via adjustable torsion bars.
(6)Cross-bar construction is directly welded to the frame and adds stiffness.
(7)Great corrosion resistance, as torsion axles are usually galvanized inside and out.
(8)Warranty typically lasts longer than leaf spring axles.
Torsion axles applications
(1)Boat trailer axles
(2)Saltwater spray environments
(3)Windy environments
(4)Unusually bumpy or rough roads
(5)Conditions where a lower ride height is needed
(6)High vibration applications (like wood chippers)
Leaf spring Trailer Axles
This type of trailer axle will be immediately recognizable to nearly anybody who has been around motor vehicles for any length of time. Much like the name suggests, spring axles are constructed of stacked flat spring stock in proportion to the load.
But rather than having the spring over the axle (like on a pickup truck), trailers normally have the axle slung over the springs. This decreases the ride height of the trailer, which is important for many reasons. Load stability is greater on a lower trailer, and they’re easier to load and unload as well.
Spring axles are by far the most popular option when it comes to trailer suspension systems. They’re inexpensive and relatively easy to maintain. In fact, spring axles often ship with curved spring plates pre-attached and ready to install. This helps reduce overall costs even more.
Benefits of the leaf spring axle
(1)It's possible to perform extensive maintenance. Unlike torsion axles (next section below), parts can be easily changed out.
(2)Spring axles provide the most dependable tire wear, especially on multi-axle trailers.
(3)They're inexpensive and fairly easy for the manufacturer to install.
(4)Spring axles don’t require re-welding to replace an entire axle.
Leaf spring axles applications
(1)Utility trailers
(2)Dump trailers
(3)Basically any type of commercially available trailer, with a few special exceptions.
Trailer torsion axle and leaf spring axles are different in characteristics and performance, we can choose according to our own needs. If you want to know more about this after reviewing the above content, you can contact us for more comprehensive information and solutions.
As a professional manufacturer of trailer parts, we have accumulated many years of manufacturing experience in this field. We have a strict production management department and a professional quality inspection system, which can provide you with safe and high-quality products. At the same time, we will provide you with thoughtful service and effective solutions according to your needs. If you are interested in our trailer axles, please contact us immediately!