Community Forums

BLK-9 · 02-06-2023, 05:29 PM

Wondering if anyone can direct me to the source document/URL detailing the torque specs for the 5200lbs dexter axle. My U-bolt 3/4 nuts keep coming loose. I'm having to tighten them up every 500+ miles. But i cannot find the correct torque specs. So, i've been tightening them up with my muscles... appreciate the help.

Old-Biscuit · 02-06-2023, 06:05 PM

Nothing to do with Dexter Axles
As to do with cold rolled U-bolt sizes
3/4" U-Bolt torque
234 lbs/ft ----plated
313 lbs/ft ----unplated

https://www.cityspring.com/technical_ubolttorque.html

RaeDawg · 02-08-2023, 08:10 AM

From Dexter: https://www.dexteraxle.com/product/2...ie-plates-nuts
45 to 70 ft. lbs.
If they continue to loosen on you it might be time for new u-bolts and nuts.

BLK-9 · 02-08-2023, 03:06 PM

Thanks to you both! I finally got ahold of Dexter this morning. They said “max” 80. So, they said I should submit a warranty claim. 80 max sure seems on the light side. I’ll have to double check, but I think the shock plate is connected in this configuration.

Homeby5 · 02-08-2023, 03:11 PM

Hmmm....I just installed new ones on a 6000# axel two days ago and simply tightened the heck out of it with a ratchet. Maybe I'll torque before I go out this summer...

BPTS · 02-09-2023, 05:29 AM

If you are having to re-torque your u bolts the nuts are not the issue.
Replace the u bolts. They are likely cheap Chinesium and are stretching.
Pull one and if you are near a spring/suspension shop, 4x4 shop or similar and pick up new ones or have new ones made.
They are not 3/4”, that is the flat to flat dimension of the nut- the size is 1/2” diameter x 20 TPI.
Pay attention to the torque, the 80 ft/lb number sounds correct but verify with the supplier of the bolts.

2Curtass · 02-10-2023, 08:00 AM

I agree, if they are coming loose it is time for new ones as they are stretched out and will continue to stretch out. Also 200-300'lbs sounds way to high.

BLK-9 · 02-10-2023, 10:47 AM

Thanks. On my last 500 mile leg, I increased the torque settings to 100 fp. I did notice (about 5 re-torques ago) that more threads were showing above the nut, which did get me thinking…WTF over. None the less, I’m wondering if I should submit the warranty through Dexter, or try to find a higher grade u-bolt somewhere else? I actually have no idea what size and dimension ubolt to order. Has anybody ordered u-bolts from a supplier other than dexter?

BPTS · 02-10-2023, 11:45 AM

Get quality aftermarket u bolts- you've already seen what Dexter has to offer right?
U bolts are easy to order, you just need a couple of dimensions and details.
Crawling under your rig and pulling the measurements is the worst of it.

Diameter and thread pitch of the bolt: 1/2x20 (3/4" wrench size is a dead give away).
Length of the bolt: measure from the top of the axle to the end of the bolt
Spread: This will be the diameter of the axle where the u bolt sits.
Bend configuration: Round, Square or Semi Round?

https://www.truckspring.com/suspensi...s/u-bolts.aspx

RaeDawg · 02-11-2023, 11:16 AM

Here is a link with the specs for the u-bolts: https://highskyrvparts.com/rv-parts/...800-011-018-00
When you torqued to 100 that might have been part of the problem. I have had no problems with the Dexter u-bolts when I have torqued to specs. Any quality u-bolt will work.