How to Jack up a Trailer with Torsion Axles

Trailers are growing in popularity across the globe, and the owners have always found it difficult to jack up trailers that come with torsion axles.

Unlike spring suspensions, torsion axles are placed directly on the frame. While that has its benefits, it also makes jacking up a bit challenging.

There is a good chance you get confronted with a situation that requires jacking up your trailer time and time again.

You need enough room to work with when you attempt to replace a tire or need to make a personalization. And what better way to get the room you need than to lift the trailer?

Below, we’ve carefully outlined the best way to jack up torsion axles trailer. We know you are eager to get to work. So, let’s jump right in.

Also, read this latest guide: How to Put the Jack Back in a GMC Sierra.

How to Jacking up a Trailer with Torsion Axles:

Torsion axles translate into lesser moving parts and smoother shock. We also love the torsion axle system because it reduces flexing that stiffens the frame.

Since the inside and outside of the axle tube are galvanized, this reduces the level of corrosion that you experience in the system.

Lifting trailers that are equipped with the counterparts—spring suspensions—are quite straightforward. However, it is not the same story with torsion axles. But don’t get worked up just yet.

With a bit of nudge in the right direction, you too can jack up your trailers without requiring the services of a professional.

Tools Required:

A bottle jack/floor jack.
Axle stands (x4).

There are different sizes for bottle jacks, and you should make sure you have one that fits the size of your trailer.

The axle stands are also known as jack stands. Pay attention to the steps listed below, and you’re good to go.

Step 1: Pull up the Trailer to Safety

Jacking up torsion axle trailer requires that you pull up before carrying out the planned lifting.

This is as simple as parking the vehicle and making sure the engine is completely turned off.

This is essential as it ensures maximum safety throughout the procedure. It also goes without mentioning that you can hardly get anything done on a moving trailer.

Hence, it is also a good idea to pull up on a flat surface without any inclining that may make it move.

Step 2: Position the Bottle Jack Appropriately

Next, you need to place the bottle jack directly under where you want to lift the trailer from.

However, most jacks have a limited height they can reach. If you have a jack that will not extend up to the size you want, you should consider raising the height with pieces of wood.

Place the bottle jack on the support and slide them all in under the frame, with the handle extending outward through the tires.

This position makes it possible to raise the jack effectively without hindrances.

Now, start unscrewing the tool until it touches the underpart of the trailer beneath the frame.

Step 3: Jack up the Trailer

Now that the jack is positioned correctly under the trailer, we can jack it up. If you have a floor jack, you need to place it under the trailer to jack.

As you jack (either with a bottle or floor jack), the vehicle starts being lifted.

The right degree of lifting should take the tires off the floor. Try not to raise too much so that your trailer does not end up turning over.

Step 4: Slide in the Axle Stands and Lower the Trailer

Now that the trailer is lifted, it is time to support the trailer with a jack stand. Place this behind the wheels at the closest point between the wheel and frame.

Then, lower the trailer until it is resting on the axle stand.

Step 5: Remove Wheels and Repeat the Procedure as Necessary

If you want to jack up a trailer to replace tires, now is an excellent time to remove them.

Otherwise, you can go under the trailer to make the adjustments you want. The process is then carried out on the other wheels too.

Step 6: Lower the Trailer When you’re Done

After the entire process, simply remove the axle stands and reverse the jack to return the trailer to the normal position.

Now that you know how to jack up the trailer, try carrying out the process at home. This makes you get accustomed to the process before an emergency arises.

This way, you’re prepared for whatever happens and will be experienced to deal with the situation appropriately.

Also, check our latest guides:

Torsion Axle Weight Rating

The torsion axle weight rating is sometimes confused with the GVW (gross vehicle weight). GVW is the total vehicle capacity, while torsion axle weight rating is a value that signifies how much weight the trailer axle can bear.

This value allows you to choose a suitable trailer axle for your vehicle based on the weight you intend to use them to carry.

Trailer manufacturers determine this value, and that means you can find the information from official websites.

They are also attached to the vehicle, usually on the VIN plate or sticker.

However, each manufacturer could also specify this detail elsewhere on your trailer.

If you cannot find a defined torsion axle lift anywhere on the vehicle, you can tell an estimated value by getting the axle diameter.

The axle that falls between 1.5 to 2.375 inches in diameter can carry loads between 1000 lbs and 2000 lbs. A 2.375 – 3-inch diameter can do well with a 3500 lbs load, while a 3-inch diameter would carry between 6000 and 7000 lbs.

For loads weighing 8000 pounds, the axle diameter needs to measure 3.5 inches and 4 inches for 9000 lbs.

When you measure a 5-inch diameter, it means the axle can withstand 10,000 lbs or more.

Other objects you can use to determine the weight rating include brake size, bolt on the hub, and numbers of bearing parts.

Conclusion

With an estimated 15.5 million trailers operating in the United States, they are now more popular than ever, with promises for even more.

These versatile vehicles have a reputation that cuts across a wide range of sectors. From agriculture to transportation and construction, there is no limit to the number of commercial and personal uses you can find for them.

Each trailer manufacturer has its preferred suspension type. And for those that come with torsion axles, jacking up is a process that isn’t very friendly.

We hope you can use the steps outlined above to get it done quickly and easily.

Now that you know how easy lifting a trailer with a torsion axle can be, you, too, can enjoy your vehicle while spreading the word.