Trailer Suspensions
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The majority of people who own a trailer of any kind – be it a boat trailer, utility trailer or caravan – the suspension underneath the trailer is nothing more than just a basic configuration of bars, bolts, shock absorbers, and springs that is responsible for keeping the trailer moving. However, having a basic understanding of your trailer’s suspension is a crucial step towards appreciating the need to take good care of it.
Alpha Suspension deals in premium Trailer Suspensions from globally recognised brands. We offer only the best trailer suspensions, springs, shock absorber, bolts, axles, and any other part you may be looking for.
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Trailer Suspension Systems
The suspension system in your trailer is basically a combination of shock absorbers, springs, and linkages. The main functions of a trailer suspension are:
- Ensure comfort of passengers
- Providing steering stability
- Maximise friction between the road and the tires
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Types Of Suspensions For Trailers
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Leaf Spring Suspension
Leaf Spring Suspensions are the oldest type of trailer suspension and have been in use for many decades. They are reliable and do a great job of absorbing shocks from uneven surfaces. There are 2 main types of leaf spring suspensions;
- Slipper Springs: These are used on light trailers. They are cheap and easy to install but have limits when it comes to the loads they can carry.
- Eye Leaf Springs: These are used on heavy trailers. They offer a softer ride but need regular fabrication and maintenance.
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Independent Trailing Arm Suspension
In recent years, higher-end caravans and camper trailers have shifted towards Independent Trailing Arm Suspension. This shift is also trickling down to lower-end trailers. In this system, there is no transfer of shock from one end of the trailer to the other. This suspension offers a higher range of movement.
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Air Ride Suspension
This suspension is slightly different from the independent trailing arm in that the load is carried by a pressurised rubber bag instead of a metal coil. Air ride suspension allows the driver to control stiffness and ride height over various terrains. Air ride suspensions are highly recommended for camper trailers and caravans.
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Independent Rubber Suspension
The Independent Rubber Suspension is both lightweight and simple. It includes 3 rubber components that are fitted within a tube. This suspension system is great because it does not need shock absorbers.
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Trailer Suspensions FAQs
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Trailers use different types of suspension depending on where they are used and what work they are used for. Some common types of suspension systems used on trailers include Leaf Spring Suspension, Independent Trailing Arm Suspension, Air Ride Suspensions and Independent Rubber Suspension.
Yes. You can add a suspension system to your trailer to link the brakes and wheels directly to the trailer’s body and to absorb the shock/noise caused by driving on uneven surfaces.
Trailers that carry motorbikes, ATVs and other light loads can go without springs. However, Caravans, Camping/Utility trailers are required to have springs because they carry a lot more weight.
Trailers require springs because heavy loads are static and can easily wreck your trailer’s suspension when driving on rough terrain.
A trailer suspension is bad if it is rusted, has breaks or cracks in its leaves, or it is sagging. Trailer suspension should be regularly inspected for breakages and cracks to prevent failure while driving.
A well maintained set of trailer springs can last over 10 years. On the other hand, poorly maintained and neglected trailer springs may need replacing only after a few years.
