Leaf springs or torsion axle?

[Kaz]

I've built my frame for my 5 x 9 teardrop. Now I need an axle, my question is which way to go. Seems as though everybody tends to go with torsion axles. My concern with torsion axles is that once they are designed for a specific weight that's it, whereas with leaf springs I can change leafs relatively inexpensively. The other problem I see with torsion axles is the can loose their elasticity over time and can be costly to replace. On another note I estimate my trailer will probably weight less than 1500# fully loaded so at this weight it is really not going to be able to maximize the benefits of a cambered axle. With such a light weight is a cambered axle necessary? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

[MtnDon]

You could consider a Fexirids axle. The arms have a splined connection and can be repositioned to vary ride height.

[48Rob]

Might be better to get a closer determination of final weight so that which ever spring style you choose will be closely matched to give you the best ride possible.
The are pro's and cons to each style.

The need to change leaf springs after the trailer is done can be eliminated by knowing the final weight within a couple hundred pounds.
Torsion springs do wear out, but leaf springs need maintenance to keep them working as new.

Don pointed out a neat feature of the flexride torsion axle, which is the ability to change the final ride height.

Either style will serve you well.

Rob
(lot of help, huh? )

[bdosborn]

How to pick your axle start angle

Bruce

[grant whipp]

Nearly every torsion axle mfg. will tell you that the loss of elasticity is mostly myth ... yes, under extreme conditions, it is a possibility, but under the typical use that we normally see in teardropping and tiny trailering, you won't have a problem. I've never had a failure of any kind with torsion axles in well over 25 years, and frankly, wouldn't consider anything else. I've even had several discussions with serious off-road enthusiasts, and while they admit to parroting the concerns of failure and loss of elasticity, no one has ever been able to relate a verifiable & documented case. The other benefit of torsion axles is that you will never need shocks.

However you choose, Good Luck! And, as always ...

CHEERS!

[Breytie]

PLUS torsion can give a much lower ride height for lower drag and fuel consumption. While possibly giving better ground clearance under the belly at the same time. And you can leave out a cross-member. AND they are easier to install. And have less parts to go wrong.

[angib]

Judging by when folks at the FiberglassRV forum discuss having to replace their rubber torsion axles, the lifespan is 25-30 years. Do you consider that too short?

[alaska teardrop]

Another advantage of the torsion axle is independent suspension and considered to be a better & safer ride.
As far as determining the suspension rate, with either choice, the spring or axle can be ordered after the trailer is built & weighed. I find it convenient to build on a four wheel dolly.

[MtnDon]

Judging by when folks at the FiberglassRV forum discuss having to replace their rubber torsion axles, the lifespan is 25-30 years. Do you consider that too short?

By that point many leaf springs need replacing too.

[eggsalad]

As far as I'm concerned, it's a pretty simple cost/quality matrix.

There's little doubt in my mind that a torsion axle has several significant advantages over a leaf-spring axle. About the only advantage leaf-sprung axles have is the price.

[48Rob]

Which brand is better, Ford or Chevy...

[Kaz]

Thank you all for your input's . I guess the problem I have with the independent torsion set ups is the fear of improper alignment and premature tire wear. I have done leafs before and they are so easy, especially for the garage engineer.The frame is square and level to within 1/32" but I think that was luck. Just gotta grow a set and go for it I guess.

[48Rob]

Kaz,

Most torsion axles have a "connecting" tube, which makes alignment no different than mounting a conventional leaf spring axle.

Rob

[MtnDon]

Kaz,

Most torsion axles have a "connecting" tube, which makes alignment no different than mounting a conventional leaf spring axle.

Rob

Correct. Buy a Dexter or a Flexiride and it comes as Rob described. The two torsion arms are connected to a square tube that holds left and right sides in alignment. The entire unit is mounted to the frame. That requires the same careful measuring as you need to exercise when mounting leaft spring mounts to the frame.