Davis Custom Trailers

How do I measure my torsion axle?

We can measure your torsion axle here, at Davis Custom Trailers, but if you cannot make it into our store, we can give you some pointers to help measure from your own home.

To find your replacement torsion axle accurately we need a few tools. We need a measuring tape, two straight edges, protractor, an assistant, and a bolt pattern template. We need to find the wheel bolt pattern, start angle of suspension arm, hub face measurement, and outside bracket measurement.

1. The bolt pattern template is printed with common bolt patterns to make identification easy. Place the bolt pattern template on your wheel. Look at the template to identify the bolt pattern. Save this pattern for later.
2. Measure the start angle of the suspension arm. Ensure the torsion axle is upright with the square tubing laying flat on a surface. Look on the side of the torsion arm and locate the diamond. The four points on the diamond should point at 0 degrees, 90 degrees, 180 degrees, and 270 degrees. If they do not appear correct, your torsion arm may be failing. If the diamond appears correctly, use a protractor, to record the suspension arm angle. Make sure the protractor is parallel with the ground. Common angles to look for include 0 degrees, 10 degrees up, 22.5 degrees up, 45 degrees up, 10 degrees down, 22.5 degrees down, 32 degrees down, 45 degrees down. Record this measurement.
3. Measure outside bracket distance. Locate the mounting brackets on the torsion axle. Locate the outer edge of the bracket and use your measuring tape to find the distance from outer edge to outer edge. Save this measurement.
4. The hub face measurement will require the measuring tape and two straight edges. Remove both wheels from either side of the axle to expose the hubface. Place the straight edge at the outer edge of hubface and use your measuring tape to measure from straight edge to straight edge distance. Save this measurement.
5. Give us a call and we can answer any questions and get your axle ordered today!

How do I measure my spring axle?

We can measure your spring axle here, at Davis Custom Trailers, but if you cannot make it into our store, we can give you some pointers to measure from your own home.

To find your replacement spring axle correctly, we need a few tools. We need a measuring tape, two straight edges, an assistance, and a bolt pattern template. We need to find the wheel bolt pattern, hub face measurement, and spring center measurement.

1. The bolt pattern template is printed with common bolt patterns to make identification easy. Place the bolt pattern template on your wheel. Look at the template to identify the bolt pattern. Save this pattern for later.
2. The hub face measurement will require the measuring tape and two straight edges. Remove both wheels from either side of the axle to expose the hubface. Place the straight edge at the outer edge of hubface and use your measuring tape to measure from straight edge to straight edge distance. Save this measurement. (you can estimate this distance by measuring from center tire to center tire if you’re unable to remove your tires although we recommend for a perfect fit, remove tires)
3. The spring center measurement will require the measuring tape. Locate your spring seats and identify the center of each spring seat. Measure from the center of each spring seat and save this measurement.
4. Identify if your axle is straight, underslug, or overslung.
5. Give us a call and we can answer any questions and get your axle ordered today!

When Should I Replace My Tires?

Replacing trailer tires regularly is crucial for safe towing, as worn or aging tires can lead to blowouts on the road.We are going to list some ways to tell if tires need to be replaced

1. Age of tires
   • Trailer tires should generally be replaced every 3-6 years. Even if they look fine, the rubber can degrade over time, leading to a higher chance of blowouts.
2. Tread Depth
   • Check the tread regularly. If it’s below 2/32 of an inch, it’s time to replace them. Uneven wear could also indicate alignment or suspension issues.
3. Cracks and Bulges
   • Look for signs of sidewall cracking, bulging, or dry rot, which are common signs of aging and indicate that the tires are no longer safe.
4. Milage
   • Trailer tires aren’t designed for the same mileage as car tires. If you’re regularly towing, consider replacing them sooner as they wear out faster with frequent use.
5. Storage Conditions
   • If the trailer sits unused in one place for extended periods or is exposed to the sun often, the tires may degrade more quickly.
6. Dexter provided chart to the left shows common wear patterns

How Should My Trailer be Maintained?

Maintaining your trailer is essential for safe and reliable towing, helping prevent accidents caused by mechanical failures. Regular upkeep also extends the life of your trailer, saving you from costly repairs and downtime in the long run.

1. How often should I inspect my trailer?
   • Perform a quick inspection before each trip and a thorough check every 3-6 months, or every 10,000 miles if you tow frequently.
2. What’s included in regular trailer maintenance?
   • Key tasks include checking tire pressure, lubricating bearings, inspecting brakes, testing lights and wiring, tightening bolts, and ensuring the hitch components are secure.
3. How do I maintain trailer tires?
   • Check tire pressure regularly, especially before towing. Replace tires every 3-6 years, regardless of tread, and look out for sidewall cracks, bulges, or signs of dry rot.
4. How often should I repack the wheel bearings?
   • Bearings should be repacked every 12,000 miles or annually, especially for trailers used frequently or exposed to water.
5. What brake maintenance is required?
   • Check trailer brakes for wear every 6 months or 10,000 miles. Replace worn brake pads and check the brake fluid if your trailer uses hydraulic brakes.
6. How do I keep the lights and wiring in good shape?
   • Regularly test lights and inspect wiring for corrosion, fraying, or loose connections. Keeping connectors clean and applying dielectric grease can protect against moisture damage
7. How can I prevent rust on my trailer?
   • Wash the trailer, especially the undercarriage, after exposure to salt or chemicals. Applying a rust-preventative coating or paint to metal surfaces can also help extend the trailer’s lifespan.
8. What’s the best way to store a trailer when not in use?
   • Store it in a covered area, if possible, to protect it from weather. If stored outside, consider using a cover and ensure the tires are shielded from direct sunlight.
9. How can I keep my trailer’s suspension in good condition?
   • Check for signs of wear on leaf springs and bushings. Grease suspension components as recommended by the manufacturer and replace any worn parts.

What Components on my Trailer Should Check before Towing?

Here’s a checklist to go through before taking your trailer out each time

1. Hitch and Coupling
   • Ensure the hitch is properly secured and locked onto the tow vehicle.
   • Verify that safety chains are crossed and securely attached.
   • Check that the breakaway cable is correctly connected and in good condition.
2. Lights and Electrical
   • Test all lights, including brake lights, turn signals, and running lights.
   • Check wiring for any frays, wear, or loose connections.
   • Ensure the trailer plug is securely attached to the tow vehicle.
3. Tires
   • Inspect tire pressure and inflate to the recommended PSI.
   • Check for visible damage, cracking, or worn tread.
   • Ensure all lug nuts are tight and secure.
4. Brakes
   • Test the trailer brakes (if equipped) to ensure they engage and release properly.
   • Verify brake fluid levels for hydraulic brakes and check for leaks.
5. Load Security and Weight Distribution
   • Ensure that cargo is properly secured and balanced, with around 10-15% of the weight at the front.
   • Double-check that tie-downs, straps, or ropes are tight.
6. Suspension and Frame
   • Look for signs of damage, such as cracks or bends in the frame or suspension components.
   • Verify that springs, bushings, and axles are in good condition.
7. Mirrors and Visibility
   • Adjust side mirrors for a clear view of the trailer’s sides and rear.
   • Remove any debris or obstructions that could impact visibility.
8. Emergency Gear
   • Carry a spare tire, jack, lug wrench, and any other necessary tools.
   • Have emergency roadside equipment, like reflective triangles or flares, in case of a breakdown.

Torque Requirements

The Dexter Axles Operation and Maintenance Service Manual includes a crucial section on Torque Requirements, which we recommend all trailer owners review to ensure safe towing. Properly torquing your wheel lug nuts is essential for preventing accidents and ensuring your trailer performs safely on the road. Sourced from https://www.dextergroup.com/MedSM on pages 75 and 76

1. Start all bolts and nuts by hand
2. Tighten bolts and nuts in a star pattern to ensure torque is equal among all bolts and nuts
   • This is shown in the second figure on the left for 6, 8, and 10 bolt patterns
3. Each bolt should be tightened incrementally to ensure all bolts are being torqued correctly
4. Bolts and nuts should be torqued before first road use, after each wheel removal. Bolts and nuts should be retorqued after 50 miles and again after 100 miles of road use.