Trailer ramp too heavy to lift, or dropping too fast

A ramp that has suddenly become too heavy to lift, or drops hard when you lower it, has a worn, broken or mis-adjusted spring or cable counterbalance. Ramp repair runs about $290 in published shop prices, plus the spring or cable if it needs replacing, and it is usually done where the trailer sits. Do not try to wind a torsion spring yourself.

Check this first

1. Stand to the side. Sundowner’s manual says to stand to the side when opening a drop ramp, because you could be hurt behind it if the counterbalance does not work.
2. Look at the cables on each side for fraying, kinks, broken strands or loose ends. Sundowner says to inspect them regularly.
3. Look at the springs. A broken coil is often visible as a gap or a loose end.
4. Check the hinge. A dry, rusted or bent hinge pin makes a ramp feel heavy even with good springs.
5. Compare sides. If the ramp twists as it lifts, one side’s spring or cable is weaker.

What is usually wrong

Full ranges are on the pricing page.

Why it happens

A ramp gets lifted every load. Springs lose tension over years of cycles, cables fray where they wrap, and hinges rust. On a horse trailer that hauls every weekend of the winter circuit, that is a lot of cycles in a few months.

Why it matters

Featherlite’s manual warns that a spring and cable counterbalance can inflict serious injury if it breaks or is incorrectly adjusted. Sundowner says a released torsion spring can inflict serious injury. A ramp that drops on a person or a horse’s legs is the risk.

When to call

As soon as the ramp feels different. See horse trailer repair and, if the hinge or mount is cracked, trailer welding and frame repair. For the makers’ own guidance, see Sundowner and Featherlite.