Ramp Assist Springs Function Load Management and Retrofit Solutions

[MikePhua]

The Role of Ramp Assist Springs in Equipment Trailers
Ramp assist springs are mechanical devices designed to reduce the effort required to raise and lower heavy loading ramps on equipment trailers. These springs counterbalance the weight of the ramp, making it safer and more manageable for operators working alone or in adverse conditions. Commonly found on tag-along trailers, tilt decks, and lowboys, ramp assist systems are especially valuable when loading compact track loaders, dozers, or excavators.
Terminology annotation:

• Ramp Assist Spring: A torsion or coil spring mounted near the hinge point of a trailer ramp to reduce lifting force.
  
• Torsion Bar: A spring mechanism that twists under load, often used in ramp assist systems for smoother motion.
  
• Pivot Tube: A hollow shaft through which the torsion bar rotates, transferring torque to the ramp.
  
• Spring Rate: The amount of force a spring exerts per unit of deflection, measured in pounds per inch.
  

In Pennsylvania, a contractor retrofitted his aging tag trailer with dual torsion assist springs after a crew member strained his back lifting a frozen ramp in winter. The upgrade reduced lift effort by 70% and improved safety compliance.
Types of Ramp Assist Mechanisms
Ramp assist systems vary in design depending on trailer type, ramp weight, and usage frequency. The most common configurations include:

• Coil Spring Assist
  • Mounted externally or within a housing
    
  • Simple to install and replace
    
  • Effective for lighter ramps
    
• Torsion Bar Assist
  • Internal bar mounted inside pivot tube
    
  • Provides consistent torque across ramp travel
    
  • Ideal for heavy steel ramps
    
• Gas Strut Assist
  • Uses pressurized cylinders to dampen motion
    
  • Common in utility trailers and enclosed units
    
  • Limited lifespan and temperature sensitivity
    
• Hydraulic Assist
  

• Integrated with trailer hydraulics
  
• Offers powered lift and lower functions
  
• Used in high-cycle or commercial fleets
  

Recommendations:

• For steel ramps over 200 lbs, torsion bar systems offer the best balance of durability and lift reduction
  
• For aluminum ramps or occasional use, coil springs are cost-effective and easy to maintain
  
• Avoid gas struts in cold climates due to pressure loss and seal degradation
  

In Alberta, a forestry crew replaced gas struts with torsion bars after repeated failures during sub-zero operations. The new system performed reliably through two winters without service.
Installation and Retrofit Considerations
Retrofitting ramp assist springs requires careful measurement and alignment. Incorrect installation can lead to binding, uneven ramp movement, or premature wear.
Installation checklist:

• Measure ramp weight and hinge geometry
  
• Select spring with appropriate rate and travel range
  
• Ensure pivot tube is clean and free of corrosion
  
• Align spring preload to match ramp resting angle
  
• Use grade 8 hardware and locknuts for mounting
  
• Test ramp movement through full travel before field use
  

Precautions:

• Never weld spring components directly to ramp without manufacturer guidance
  
• Avoid over-preloading springs, which can cause hinge damage
  
• Lubricate pivot points with high-pressure grease annually
  
• Inspect for cracks or fatigue near spring mounts every 500 hours
  

In Georgia, a paving contractor installed aftermarket coil assist springs on a 20-ton trailer. After misaligning the pivot bracket, the ramp twisted under load and cracked at the weld seam. Realignment and reinforcement resolved the issue.
Maintenance and Performance Monitoring
Ramp assist springs are often overlooked during routine trailer inspections. However, their performance directly affects operator safety and ramp longevity.
Maintenance tips:

• Inspect spring housing for rust, debris, or impact damage
  
• Check for spring fatigue or loss of tension
  
• Replace worn bushings or pivot sleeves
  
• Re-torque mounting bolts every 6 months
  
• Clean and lubricate exposed components quarterly
  

Performance indicators:

• Ramp drops too quickly or rebounds during lowering
  
• Excessive force required to lift ramp
  
• Audible creaking or grinding near hinge
  
• Uneven ramp movement or side-to-side twist
  

Recommendations:

• Keep spare springs and bushings in fleet inventory
  
• Use color-coded tags to indicate spring age and service history
  
• Train operators to report ramp resistance changes immediately
  
• Include ramp assist inspection in DOT pre-trip checklist
  

In New York, a municipal fleet added ramp spring checks to their winterization protocol. This reduced ramp-related injuries and improved trailer uptime during snow equipment deployment.
Conclusion
Ramp assist springs are a small but critical component in trailer safety and usability. Whether lifting a 300-pound steel ramp or managing daily load cycles, these systems reduce strain, prevent injury, and extend ramp life. With proper selection, installation, and maintenance, ramp assist springs transform a heavy chore into a smooth motion—keeping operators safe and machines moving. In the world of equipment transport, balance isn’t just about load—it’s about leverage. And the spring is where that leverage begins.