For the last 100 years, leaf spring suspensions have been used to support weight bearing vehicle, everything from cars, trucks, and trailers. Other suspension technologies were developed over the years but weren’t used extensively until more recently.
After considerable research and development, Timbren Industries first introduced the Axle-Less suspension to the trailer industry back in 2011. Each new iteration of the original prototype provided more service and selection for potential trailer manufacturers.
Dissatisfied with just a trailer helper spring kit, the general public became interested simply because of the price, ease of installation, and the promise of a quiet and smooth ride.
What type of suspension is on your utility trailer?
Trailer suspensions come in various styles, each boasting its unique features and benefits. Let’s explore some popular types and their particular advantages:
- Leaf spring:
Leaf spring suspensions include stacked layers of arched springs made from steel that distribute the weight evenly. This durable suspension is reasonably priced, making it the industry standard for trailers.
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Torsion:
Compared to leaf springs, the torsion suspension system operates on a completely different mechanism. The twisting action of its rubberized core acts as a shock absorber promising a smoother ride.
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Air suspension:
Air suspensions use airbags that are inflated with compressed air to absorb road shocks. The air bags can be adjusted to help keep the trailer level and provide a smooth ride while under load.
Let’s also examine an alternative suspension to Leaf, Torsion, and Air: The Axle-Less trailer suspension.
Since it was first introduced at the 2011 SEMA show in Las Vegas, the Axle-Less trailer suspension has continued to capture the attention of trailer manufactures all over the world. By using their Aeon® rubber spring technology, only Timbren has been able to create a totally unique and easy-to-install system for trailers.
The Axle-Less suspension, as its name suggests, has no need for a solid axle. A solid trailer frame becomes the ‘axle’ that holds both left and right sides – control arms and spindles – accurately aligned with each other. The Axle-Less system comes pre-assembled comprised of 5 basic components:
- Steel Hanger
- Control arm
- Two Aeon® springs
- Urethane bushing
- Outboard arm
The unique combination of a metal control arm and two Aeon® rubber springs delivers a ride so quiet and smooth that you will forget you’re towing a trailer.
Because it comes pre-assembled, the installation of an Axle-Less suspension is simple and easy to do. Below are the basic steps for installation from beginning to end:
Step 1: Bolt outboard arm onto control arm using supplied fasteners
Step 2: Make sure frame is perfectly square
Step 3: Install hangers to frame
Step 4: Frame reinforcement
Why is the Axle-Less suspension better than a trailer leaf spring helper suspension?
Comparing the Axle-Less suspension to a leaf spring suspension is a comparison between old and new technology. Axle-Less technology represents a clear break with older, more conventional designs.
Below are the features and benefits of an Axle-Less suspension that you won’t get with a leaf spring suspension...
Feature # 1: No solid axle! (ground clearance)
Feature # 2: Independent action of left and right wheels (quiet and smooth)
Feature # 3: Unique combination of 2 Aeon® rubber springs on one control arm
Feature # 4: Pre-assembled components
The above features provide some excellent benefits that you won’t find anywhere else:
- Maximum ground clearance Because there’s no through axle connecting left and right wheels, you are provided more ground clearance. And more ground clearance allows you more off-road accessibility. Suddenly, you can take your trailer to places only your 4X4 could navigate.
- Ultimate off-road control
- The independent action of both left and right wheels will help you remain in control of your rig, avoiding any serious trailer accidents out on the trails.
- Smooth, quiet ride
- The unique combination of two Aeon® rubber springs on one control arm, one for the jounce and the other for the rebound, provide you with a soft, quiet ride – on sand off road.
- Heavy duty construction of metal components hold your trailer together even on rough terrain.
- DIY installation
- Pre-assembled components allows for easy, DIY installation.
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Flexible enough for custom builds
Building your own rig or retrofitting an existing one? No need to find an axle that fits. Our Axle-Less trailer suspensions have flexible options for your custom build.
The Axle-Less trailer suspension isn’t like anything you’ve seen before. Even the best trailer helper springs can’t compare. The Axle-Less trailer suspension is in a completely different category from a trailer leaf spring helper suspension. There’s simply no comparison!
For more information on the Axle-Less trailer suspension, visit Timbren.com or contact Customer Service: Sales@timbren.com
