The following guide covers How to Measure a Torsion Axle.
Torsion axles are one of the most popular types of axles when it comes to hauling trailers.
How to Measure a Torsion Axle
In this video, we’ll walk you through how to measure your torsion trailer axle.
How to Measure a Torsion Axle – Video Notes
What you’ll need:
Tape Measure, framing square or “L” shaped ruler.
Remove tires:
To get accurate measurements, we recommend removing the tires before you start measuring. This exposes the hub face of the axle simplifying the process.
How to Measure a Torsion Axle – Other Measurements
How to Measure the Axle Brackets
When measuring the axle brackets we are going to measure outside the brackets to outside the brackets as well as inside to inside. The reason for this is because manufacturer sizing varies from bracket to bracket and by knowing these two measurements, we can customize your axle to be a perfect fit when you place it underneath your trailer. To measure the outside of brackets, place your tape measure on the outside of one bracket, and pull it across to the outside of the other bracket. To measure the inside of brackets place your tape measure on the inside of the bracket and measure across to the inside of the other bracket.
How to Measure the Axle Beam
Measure from one end of the tube to the other avoiding the brackets as best as possible. This will result in the most accurate measurement.
How to Measure the Bolt Circle
The bolt circle is the space between the bolts. If you have a 4, 6, or 8 bolt circle, you can measure from the center of one bolt circle to the center of the bolt circle that is directly across. If you have a 5 bolt circle, this measurement is found by measuring from the outside of one bolt circle, skipping one, and measuring to the center of the next stud or bolt circle.
How to Measure the Hub Face
Measuring the overall width of the axle is referred to as the hub face measurement. A common mistake when measuring spring axles is to place the tape measure on the outside of the drum. THIS IS NOT HUB FACE! To get an accurate hub face measurement, place a straight edge against that flat surface where the wheel attaches to the drum and place your tape measure to the inside of the flat edge. Pull the tape measure across the axle, place your second straight edge against the flat surface of the other hub and that will be the hub face measurement.
How to Measure the Trailing Arm Angle
Line up the top and bottom point of the diamond on the suspension arm making sure the framing square lines up directly down the center of the axle tube, this will ensure the rubber suspension is not worn out and giving you a false angle. Once you have established the arm’s true neutral position you can then determine the angle. Common trailing arm angles are, 22.5° up, 10° up, 0°, 10° down, 22.5° down, and 45° down.
Bent or Broken Axle?
If for any reason your axle is bent, broken, or missing a hub, contact us today at 515-606-1718 and we’ll walk you through how to measure it.
Ready to Order Torsion Axles?
Now that you have measured all the parts of your torsion axle you’re ready to buy. Order a new torsion trailer axle today. Once the order is placed, our team will work fast to ensure you get back on the road ASAP!