APRIL 16, 2025

How to Replace a Torsion Spring on a Maxon TE-Series Liftgate

Maxon TE tuck away liftgate models, including the TE-20 and TE-33, use torsion springs to assist with the folding and unfolding of the platform flipover. Over time, torsion springs may wear out, break, or lose tension, making the flipover harder to operate. Fortunately, Maxon provides a clear and safe procedure for replacing these springs, detailed in the TE-20 (M-16-35 Rev D) and TE-33 (M-17-12 Rev C) maintenance manuals. This article outlines the official Maxon process for spring replacement.

• Maxon’s Documentation Resources
• When to Replace a Torsion Spring
• Tools & Safety Precautions
• TE-20 Torsion Spring Replacement Procedure (M-16-35 Rev D)
• TE-33 Torsion Spring Replacement Procedure (M-17-12 Rev C)
• Final Steps
• Conclusion

Maxon’s Documentation Resources

Information in this article is sourced from Maxon’s manuals and technical guides. Always refer to your specific liftgate’s manuals for complete procedures and serial number, model, and year-specific details.

Reference PDFs used:

• Maxon TE-20/25/30 Installation Manual M-16-35 Rev D April 2021
• Maxon TE-33 Maintenance Manual M-17-12 Rev C May 2021

When to Replace a Torsion Spring

• The flipover no longer stays in position or feels unusually heavy
• Visible signs of wear, deformation, or corrosion on the spring
• Broken spring or spring legs
• Flipover operation feels jerky or uneven

If you notice these symptoms on your tuck under lift gate, the torsion spring may need replacement.

Tools & Safety Precautions

Tools Required:

• Hammer and punch (to drive out roll pins)
• Wrenches or socket set
• Replacement torsion spring (correct model)
• Safety gloves and eye protection

Before you begin:

• Park the vehicle on level ground
• Disconnect the liftgate power at the battery
• Ensure the platform is at a height that makes the hinge area easily accessible

Warning: Always ensure there is no tension on the torsion spring before removing any hinge pins. Failure to do so can result in personal injury or equipment damage.

TE-20 Torsion Spring Replacement Procedure (M-16-35 Rev D)

• Fold the flipover onto the platform and then fold the entire platform.
• Raise the liftgate to a convenient work height.
• Remove the cap screw, flat washer, and locknut from the platform hinge bracket’s pin collar.
• Drive the platform hinge pin outboard just enough to release the torsion spring. Do not fully remove the hinge pin unless necessary.
• Remove the torsion spring and inspect the hinge pin for wear.
• Install the new torsion spring with the long leg inserted into the shackle block and the short leg properly aligned in the bracket.
• Reinsert the hinge pin, align it with the hole in the collar, and reinstall the cap screw, washer, and locknut.

TE-33 Torsion Spring Replacement Procedure (M-17-12 Rev C)

The steps are similar to the TE-20, with one additional consideration: the torsion spring bracket hole location.

• Fold the flipover and platform, then raise to a safe working height.
• Drive out the roll pin from the hinge pin collar.
• Push the hinge pin outward just enough to free the spring.
• Remove the old spring and bushing.
• Select the correct bracket hole based on platform type:
        - RH Side, Steel Platform: Hole 1
        - RH Side, Aluminum Platform: Hole 2
        - LH Side, All Platforms: Hole 3
  
• Install the new spring and bushing. Align the long leg of the spring with the correct bracket hole.
• Reinsert the hinge pin and install the roll pin so it protrudes evenly from both sides.

Final Steps

When sourcing a replacement, be sure to use OEM Maxon liftgate parts to guarantee proper function and alignment with your specific TE-Series model.

Once the spring is installed:

• Cycle the liftgate to ensure smooth operation of the flipover.
• Check that the flipover stays in the folded and unfolded positions correctly.
• Confirm there is no abnormal noise, binding, or uneven motion.

Conclusion

The tuck-under lift gate TE models by Maxon are designed for simplified maintenance, and replacing the torsion spring is a straightforward process when safety precautions and Maxon’s official steps are followed. Whether you’re maintaining a TE-20 or a TE-33, staying on top of torsion spring condition ensures safe, efficient platform operation. Always use OEM replacement parts and consult your model’s manual for exact specifications.