Trailer struts

Types of trailer struts

A trailer strut, also known as a trailer support leg or stabilizer leg, is a component found on trailers, particularly on larger types like boat trailers and caravan trailers. Its main job is to provide stability and support when the trailer is parked or stationary, helping to prevent swaying, tipping, or movement that could compromise safety or lead to damage.

Trailer struts come in a variety of designs, including:

• Telescoping trailer strut: Telescoping trailer struts are designed with an adjustable mechanism that allows them to extend and retract to different lengths. This feature provides flexibility and adaptability, ensuring stability on uneven ground or various trailer sizes. These struts typically consist of two or more nested tubes, one sliding into the other. They often incorporate locking pins or adjustable clamps to secure the extended length and prevent accidental retraction during use.
• Double trailer strut: A double trailer strut typically consists of two parallel legs or arms that work together to provide stability and support to the trailer. This design helps to distribute loads evenly and minimizes swaying or tipping, especially during travel or when loading and unloading. Double trailer struts are often found on larger trailers, such as boat trailers, where additional stability is crucial due to the trailer's size and weight. They can be fixed or adjustable, depending on the trailer's design and specific stability requirements.
• Spring-loaded trailer strut: A spring-loaded trailer strut incorporates a spring mechanism into its design. This spring mechanism allows the strut to absorb shocks, vibrations, and impacts that occur during trailer travel. By incorporating the spring, the trailer strut can enhance ride comfort by reducing the transmission of sudden jolts or bumps to the trailer structure. The spring-loaded feature also contributes to the strut's longevity by allowing it to flex and compress under load without transferring excessive force to other trailer components.
• Folding trailer strut: As the name suggests, this strut can fold up when not in use. This feature is particularly advantageous for boat trailers, where maximizing space during loading and unloading is essential. Folding trailer struts can be manual or assisted by hydraulic or pneumatic mechanisms. They are designed with locking mechanisms or latches to ensure they remain securely in the extended position when in use.
• Electric trailer strut: An electric trailer strut is a modern innovation that incorporates electric or electronic components into its functionality. These struts can be controlled remotely or automatically adjusted based on load conditions and trailer height. Electric trailer struts simplify the process of extending, retracting, and adjusting stability legs. They offer convenience, especially for larger trailers, where manual operation of multiple struts can be physically demanding and time-consuming.

Specification & Maintenance Trailer Struts

• Size

  Struts come in various lengths and sizes. They are measured when they are compressed and extended. For trailers with bigger loads, longer struts are required.

• Weight Capacity

  Each trailer strut has a maximum weight it can support. This is the load it can carry when it is fully extended. The weight capacity should be considered when selecting a strut for a trailer. The weight capacity also influences the size of the strut.

• Material

  Trailer struts are made from strong materials. They are mostly made of steel or aluminum. These materials are chosen because of their strength and durability. The strut is also made of different materials depending on the type.

• Adjustment

  Some trailer struts can be adjusted. This adjustment allows the length of the strut to be changed. It also accommodates different ground surfaces and slopes.

• Mounting Method

  Trailer struts can be mounted using bolts, brackets, or welds. The mounting method is an important part of the trailer strut design.

• Corrosion Resistance

  Some trailer struts come with a coating that makes them resistant to rust and corrosion. This coating helps to increase the lifespan of the strut. Struts that are used in coastal areas or places where they are exposed to chemicals require this coating.

• Spring Strength

  Some trailer struts are fitted with springs. These springs are used to help the strut extend and retract. The strength of the spring is specified in pounds or Newtons, and it affects how well the strut can hold the trailer.

• Retractability

  Some trailer struts can be retracted completely. This makes them easy to store and transport. Struts with this feature are suitable for trailers that are used for long distances.

• Durability

  The durability and lifespan of the strut are specified. This ensures that the trailer strut can withstand different conditions and heavy loads.

• Safety Standards

  The trailer strut must meet the industry safety standards. These standards ensure that the strut works well and is safe to use.

Trailer struts should be maintained regularly. Proper care increases their lifespan and reduces the chances of failure. Here are some maintenance practices:

• Check the strut for rust and corrosion: When struts are used, they should be inspected for signs of damage, rust, and corrosion. If they are found, the struts should be replaced. This inspection should be done before and after each trip.
• Clean the strut: After each trip, the strut should be cleaned. This prevents dirt and dust from building up and damaging it.
• Check the fit: The trailer strut should be checked to see if it is still fitting properly. If it becomes loose, the mounting hardware should be checked, and the components should be replaced if necessary.
• Check for bending or twisting: The strut should be checked to see if it is still straight. If there is any bending or twisting, it should be corrected manually or with a tool.
• Check the spring: If the strut has a spring, it should be checked to see if it is still functioning properly. The tension of the spring should be adjusted if necessary.
• Lubrication: All moving parts of the trailer strut should be lubricated with a suitable lubricant. This ensures they move smoothly and reduces the chance of wear and tear.
• Check the locking mechanism: If the strut has a locking mechanism, it should be checked to see if it is still locking properly. The locking mechanism should be tested before each trip.

How to Choose Trailer Struts

When buying a trailer support for any purpose, it is important to consider some factors that will determine the suitability of the strut for the intended purpose. Here are some of the factors to consider:

• Weight Capacity

  The trailer strut chosen should have the capacity to support the weight of the trailer being supported. This is because using a strut with a lower weight capacity will lead to damage in a short period of use. Therefore, before choosing a trailer strut, the weight of the trailer should be established.

• Length and Extended Size

  The size of the trailer strut is also an important factor to be considered. Trailer struts come in different sizes and lengths. Depending on the size of the trailer, a longer or shorter strut may be required. Also, the height of the ground clearance of the trailer is a determining factor in choosing the right trailer strut. A trailer with a higher ground clearance will require a longer trailer strut.

• Mounting Options

  Another important factor to consider when choosing a trailer strut is the mounting option. This is because different trailer struts come with different mounting options. Some of the mounting options include a top mount, through hole, or eyelet. Therefore, when choosing a trailer strut, buyers should choose the one with the mounting option that suits their trailer.

• Orientation

  Trailer struts can be oriented in different ways. They can be oriented vertically or horizontally. The orientation of a trailer strut is an important factor to consider when choosing a trailer strut. This is because the orientation of the strut will determine how the trailer will be supported.

• Material

  The material of the trailer strut is also a very important factor that influences the choice of a trailer strut. Trailer struts are made from different materials. Commonly, trailer struts are made from steel and aluminum. Each of these materials has its advantages and disadvantages. For instance, steel struts are very strong and durable, which makes them ideal for heavy-duty applications. On the other hand, aluminum struts are lightweight, which makes them suitable for light-duty applications.

• Usage Frequency

  Usage frequency refers to how often the trailer strut will be used. This is an important factor to consider when choosing a trailer strut because it will determine the type of strut to be chosen. For example, if the trailer strut will be used frequently, a more durable and reliable strut should be chosen.

• Budget

  Budget is the last but not least factor to be considered when choosing a trailer strut. Trailer struts come with different prices. Buyers should choose a trailer strut that is within their budget. However, it is important to note that the more expensive struts offer more features than the cheaper ones.

How to DIY and Replace Trailer Struts

There are several methods for replacing a trailer strut, and each is as effective as the other. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to replace a trailer strut.

• Prepare the Trailer

  The first step in the trailer strut replacement process is to prepare the vehicle. This involves finding a level ground where the trailer can be leveled. Once the trailer is leveled, the trailer can be safely supported with jack stands after being raised with a floor jack. The floor jack should be placed under the trailer's frame, and the trailer should be raised until there is a sufficient working space under it. Once the trailer is raised, the jack stands should be placed on the solid frame rails of the trailer to provide extra support.

• Remove the Wheel

  After the trailer has been prepared and safely supported, the next step is to remove the wheel on the side where the trailer strut is going to be replaced. This process involves loosening the lug nuts and removing the wheel.

• Disconnect the Old Strut Assembly

  Once the wheel is removed, the next step is to disconnect the old strut assembly. This involves disconnecting the ball joint at the end of the tie rod, which is the steering arm that connects the trailer's wheel hub to the steering wheel. Also, the top of the strut should be disconnected from the body of the trailer. This is done by removing the bolts. The bolts might be difficult to remove because of their rusting. In such a case, a penetrating lubricant can be applied, and they can be removed using a wrench or ratchet. Once the bolts have been removed, the old strut assembly should be lifted out of its mounting on the lower control arm and pulled out. Also, the anti-lock brake cable and the electrical connector should be disconnected from the strut assembly before it is removed.

• Install the New Strut Assembly

  Once the old strut assembly has been disconnected, the next step is to install a new strut assembly. Before the new strut assembly is installed, its heights should be compared with that of the old one. The new strut assembly should be lubricated lightly where it contacts the mounting points on the control arm and the trailer's body. The new strut should be aligned with the control arm and the mounting points on the trailer's body, and it should be pushed gently into place. Once it is in place, the bolts at the top of the new strut assembly should be tightened down to the specifications in the service manual. Also, the ball joint should be connected to the tie rod.

• Reassemble and Test

  Once the new strut assembly has been installed, the wheel should be reinstalled, and the trailer should be removed from the jack stands. The lug nuts should be tightened down loosely before the trailer is removed from the jack stands. Once the trailer is removed from the jack stands, the lug nuts should be tightened down completely with the help of a torque wrench. The lug nuts should be tightened down to the specifications in the service manual. Finally, the trailer's suspension should be tested by pushing down on the rear of the trailer and releasing it to ensure the strut works properly.

Q and A

Q1: How are trailer struts measured?

A1: To find the right size of a trailer strut, measure the length when it is fully extended. Also, consider the measurement made when it is compressed.

Q2: Which material is best for trailer struts?

A2: Trailer struts are made from different materials, but the most common one is steel. It is a good choice because it is strong and durable. It can also handle heavy loads without bending or breaking.

Q3: What is the function of a trailer strut?

A3: A trailer strut supports the trailer and keeps it in a good position. It also helps to hold the trailer's weight so that it does not sag or tilt.

Q4: Can someone replace a trailer strut by themselves?

A4: Yes, replacing a trailer strut is a simple task that does not require much expertise. It is something that can be done with a basic hand tool. There are many online videos that show how to replace a trailer strut.