Independent wheel suspension

The rubber torsion axles have advantages and disadvantages. The advantage is that the give a real good ride when they get about 60% or more of there rated weight on the axle. The disadvantage is that they need to be replaced every 20 years or so because of the rubber getting hard. Also since they don't have an equalizer, they must take the entire load on one axle (assuming you have tandem axles) if the bump is high enough such as large speed humps. Some rubber torsion axle manufacturers require each axle to be rated at 1.25 the intended maximum load because there are no equalizers. Flexiride is the one one that I know of that has adjustable torsion arms with spines. I won't buy them any other way.
Dexter made independant leaf spring axles that were used on Avions during most of the 1980s. These axles give a good ride and are great for towing. Eventually, (late 1988) Avion went to rubber torsion axles because they were cheaper.

If torsion axles are good enough for an Airstream they should be good enough for yours. Your TT will ride smoother than most. Just keep the load balanced between the two axles. As far as driving up a slope or parking on a slope it won't hurt a thing. Just don't tow with the nose radically up or down.

Tvov wrote:
My 21' TT has torsion axles. 10 years now with no problems.

Advantage: Low ride height. I have only one fold out step, not 3 or 4 like some TTs with leaf springs.

DisAdvantage: Low ride height. Have to be aware when going over speed bumps, going up steep entrance ramps. Less options to add things under the TT such as storage tubes (for stinky slinky dump hose) or whatever else.

Having owned my TT with torsion suspension for awhile now, I think I would prefer a leaf spring suspension, but as I said the torsion suspension has been completely trouble free.

^^^This.

But you can raise them to get better clearance if wanted.

They are a lot quieter, no clunking and banging when turning. ( at least my old trailer did that, the new one with torsion axles doesn't.

My 21' TT has torsion axles. 10 years now with no problems.

Advantage: Low ride height. I have only one fold out step, not 3 or 4 like some TTs with leaf springs.

DisAdvantage: Low ride height. Have to be aware when going over speed bumps, going up steep entrance ramps. Less options to add things under the TT such as storage tubes (for stinky slinky dump hose) or whatever else.

Having owned my TT with torsion suspension for awhile now, I think I would prefer a leaf spring suspension, but as I said the torsion suspension has been completely trouble free.

I had a boat trailer with a torsion axle, worked fine.

thomasmnile wrote:
Looking at the posted diagram of the axle, it's kinda "independent" suspension by virtue of each wheel being mounted on a swing arm, but aren't the wheels still connected by the torsion spring?

It is a torsion axle. each night i keep finding new things i want to research on the tt, the torsion spring was last nights episode.

Other than low center of gravity, potential for better ride, how are they supposed to be? how is the strength compared to the shackle and leaf spring system?

I guess, durability comes to mind. From my understanding they are supported by rubber cords, i mean, what happens if you slip past a rubber cord? is there even a stop or can you expect your wheel to slam right into your trailer?

The way the pics look, i could see 1 of four wheel slipping a worn rubber, and then just be basically dangling there.

Looking at the posted diagram of the axle, it's kinda "independent" suspension by virtue of each wheel being mounted on a swing arm, but aren't the wheels still connected by the torsion spring?

Ivylog, is what you pictured considered "independent wheel suspension"?

Because there is not any equalization with TorqueFlex axles, you need to try and keep the camper level or even slightly high on the front. I have a nice car trailer with these axles and without a load it wants to sway if the hitch is too low. Too much weight is being carried by the front axle which results in not enough tongue weight.
I would not worry about going up your steep driveway.