Trailer ramps make it easy to load heavy construction, trucking, landscaping, and other equipment and move it from one place to another. However, to take advantage of the full functionality of a trailer ramp, you need to make sure you use the right kind of trailer ramp springs to handle the weight of the ramp for easy opening and closing. Install a trailer ramp spring at the hinge mount where a ramp connects to the trailer to make it easier to lift or lower the ramp.
If you are looking for trailer ramp springs that will make raising and lowering heavy trailer ramps easier, Wermke Spring can help. We are a spring manufacturer that offers a wide variety of springs for all types of applications and all kinds of industries. We manufacture, stock, and distribute trailer springs in a standard size and dimension that is designed to work efficiently and universally with almost all ramp applications. However, if your trailer ramp requires customization, Wermke Spring technicians can manufacture custom springs as needed to fit your specifications. To learn more about the trailer ramp springs we offer and to request a quote, please contact us at 636-677-5500.
Trailer Ramp Spring Specifications and How to Use Them
Trailer ramp springs are created by making a coil out of spring-tempered metal wires. Both ends of a trailer ramp spring stick out like a lever. The specifications for our universal trailer ramp springs are as follows:
- Our springs have an inside diameter of 1 5/8″ and will work on shafts that have a maximum outside diameter of up to 1 1/2″ or less.
- Our springs need to have a distance of at least 1 1/2″ from the shaft’s center to the edge of the ramp or the edge of the trailer’s frame as this allows the clearance needed for the spring to operate.
Example:
If the shaft diameter is 1 ½”, half the diameter is the center of the shaft. (1 ½”=3/4”)
¾” (half of the shaft diameter) + ½” (spring wire diameter) = 1 ¼”, which allows ¼” a gap between the outside of the spring and trailer frame. - Our springs require a distance of at least 4″ between the two hinge brackets that hold the shaft together. The spring body length is 3 5/8”, but the spring will expand when in loaded position.
- Our springs’ deflection is up to 125 degrees. Any more than that and the ramp can still be raised, but there will not be any more load assist.
- Our springs can provide a torque of 2000 in/lbs at a 90-degree deflection. For you to determine the approximate amount of torque needed by your ramp, figure out the weight of the ramp and the ramp length in inches. Then, divide the length of the ramp by two and multiply it by its weight. For example, if you come up with 4000 in/lbs, that means you will need to use two trailer ramp springs for your ramp. For 6000 in/lbs, three springs are needed, and so on.
- When installing trailer ramp springs, keep in mind that the direction of the coils is important. Lay the spring on its side (resting on the ends of the coils) looking at the end of the coils. Follow the coils as they are down and away, if the movement is counter-clockwise, this is a left-hand wind. If it is clockwise, it is a right-hand wind. When the spring is in use, or when the ramp is lowered, the coils should tighten to prevent premature failure.
- The best way to attach springs is by mechanical attachment. Do not weld ramp springs. Very high temperatures will change the molecular structure of the spring material causing it to become weak and brittle.
Learn More About Trailer Springs
- Trailer Ramp Springs Design Guide
- Tailer Springs Types
- Ramp Springs Applications & Uses
- Benefits of Trailer Ramp Lift Assist Springs
Order Custom Spring Manufacturing in St. Louis
Whether you are a trailer manufacturer with ongoing needs or you are simply repairing one or two trailers for use, we manufacture high-quality trailer ramp springs that make raising and lowering ramps a breeze. Our trailer ramp spring products are universally suitable for various ramp applications. You can also have a spring customized and manufactured according to your needs. Based out of St. Louis, Missouri, we offer quick distribution throughout the Midwest and nationwide. For pricing inquiries, initial quotes, and customization requests, you can contact us online or at 636-677-5500.
