Keystone RV Forums - View Single Post - What is the torque rating for The Hanger bolts for the Dexter 7000 pound axles

Dave W · 06-11-2018, 04:45 AM

U bolt torque is this for trailers:

1/2 inch Bolts: 45 ft/lbs - 70 ft/lbs
9/16 inch Bolts: 65 ft/lbs - 95 ft/lbs

The original bolts on ours were a bit better then finger tight. When I replaced the springs, I went to 9/16" U-bolts from the original 1/2" and quickly found that 95 lb ft would bend the spring plate. I enlarged the bolt holes and reused the original Dexter plates which are at least one sheet metal grade thicker. I now use 75 lb ft.torque which is more then the original max 1/2" torque figure

I also am using a hardened washer between the nut and spring plate to prevent galling. A spring shop should have them but I found some ARP brand for a reasonable price (ARPs are usually a few bucks each)

06-11-2018, 04:45 AM	#7
Dave W Senior Member Join Date: May 2015 Location: Near Saratoga Springs, Posts: 1,131	U bolt torque is this for trailers: 1/2 inch Bolts: 45 ft/lbs - 70 ft/lbs 9/16 inch Bolts: 65 ft/lbs - 95 ft/lbs The original bolts on ours were a bit better then finger tight. When I replaced the springs, I went to 9/16" U-bolts from the original 1/2" and quickly found that 95 lb ft would bend the spring plate. I enlarged the bolt holes and reused the original Dexter plates which are at least one sheet metal grade thicker. I now use 75 lb ft.torque which is more then the original max 1/2" torque figure I also am using a hardened washer between the nut and spring plate to prevent galling. A spring shop should have them but I found some ARP brand for a reasonable price (ARPs are usually a few bucks each)