Maintenance, Axle bolts, frame, suspension and structure, Trailer structure – Multiquip Trailers User Manual
Page 34: Welds, Fasteners

page 34 — trailer • owner's manual — rev. #4 (11/08/13)
axle Bolts, Frame, suspension anD
struCture
To perform many of the inspection and maintenance
activities, you must jack up the trailer using jacks and jack
stands. When jacking and using jack stands, place them so
as to clear wiring, brake lines, and suspension parts (i.e.,
springs, torsion bars). Place jacks and jack stands inside
of the perimeter strip on the supporting structure to which
the axles are attached.
trailer structure
Because the trailer receives the most abuse, it will most
likely corrode before any other part of the structure. Using
a power washer and a detergent solution, thoroughly wash
the trailer to remove road grime, bugs, salt or mud. Be sure
to take time to check all electrical connections including
lights and the brakes, if your trailer is equipped with an
electric brake system. Inspect the trailer license plate and
make sure it is clean and legible.
welds
All welds can crack or fail when subjected to heavy loads
or movement of cargo that was not properly tied to prevent
movement. Any time that you know or suspect that the
trailer has been subjected to heavy loads or movement
of cargo, immediately inspect the welds and fasteners for
damage. Broken or damaged welds can cause injury or
severe damage to your trailer and contents. Inspect all of
the welds for cracks or failure at least twice a year.
Fasteners
Various fastener types may be used on your trailer.
warning
Never crawl under your trailer unless it is on firm
and level ground and resting on properly placed and
secured jack stands.
warning
Improper weld repair will lead to early failure of the
trailer structure and can cause serious injury or death.
Do not repair cracked or broken welds unless you have
the skills and equipment to make a proper repair. If not,
have the welds repaired by your dealer.
maintenance
Fasteners provide certain advantages over welded
connections in some cases, however, it is important to
periodically inspect all of the fasteners to insure proper
maintenance of the trailer.
Tightening Loose Fasteners
When tightening loose fasteners, it is important that they be
tightened to their proper torque setting (See Table 5). Under
tightening may cause them to loosen or disengage during
use of the trailer. Over tightening may damage the fasteners
and their components causing them to fail or break.
warning
Damaged, loose or missing fasteners will weaken the
trailers structure and can cause serious injury and
damage to the trailer and contents. Tighten loose
fasteners to their proper torque setting.
NOTICE
never use an pneumatic air gun to tighten fasteners.
Always use a properly calibrated torque wrench.
table 5. Fastener types and strength grades
Strength Grade Markings
Definition
6 Radial Lines
SAE Grade 8
ASTM A-354BD
Lawson
TRU-TORQ®
Material
Medium Carbon
Alloy Steel
Quenched
& Tempered
Special Analysis
Alloy Steel
Quenched
& Tempered
Proof Load Strength Psi
120,000 psi min. 150,000 psi min.
Single Shear Strength Psi
97,000 psi
117,000 psi
Ultimate Tensile Strength Psi
150,000 psi min. 180,000 psi min.
190,000 psi avg.
Torque Requirements
130 (ft lbs.)
140 (ft lbs.)
Fastener Size
Coupler
5/8"" - 11
N/A
W/ Nylon Insert Locknut
5/8"" - 11
N/A
Torsion Axle
N/A
5/8"" - 18
W/ Grade C All Metal
Locknut
N/A
5/8"" - 18
Hydraulic Actuator & Electric
Brake Adapter
N/A
5/8"" - 18
W/ Grade C All Metal Locknut
N/A
5/8"" - 18